are there key advantages over the HS precision stock ?
does it perform $450.00 better ?
weight difference ?
thanks
The A5 has a totally different fit and feel to the HS , even the HS vertical grip type, which is closer in angles and dimensions to the A5 has a different feel. Either you like it or you don't, there doesn't seem to be any middle ground here.
Using literally hundreds of both brands every year, the overall quality of the McMillan product is higher, HS due to the manner in which they are made have been known to have air pockets just under the outer finish, which can and do become really apparent if the skin is broken. This is easy to fix, but not something I have encountered on the McMillan line.
HS uses an aluminum block , McMillan does not. In my experience BOTH need proper bedding so the aluminum is not a big advantage in my mind.
Is 1 better than the other? No each has points that are positive and negative.
I believe alot more depends on how rugged a rifle you require, if a true all out ruggedness is required, the A5 would win hands down due to structure. HS stocks are partially hollow, But for most uses this is not a big issue, I think more is whether you like the way 1 feels and fits you over the other. The A5s fully kitted out versus the HS fully kitted will weigh a little bit more as in about 6 to 8 ozs.
As someone pointed out Russo makes a laminated clone of the A5, which is very good, but if you are having to pay someone like me to finish the stock, by the time the dust all settles the cost will be greater than a fully finished A5 comes out of the box, as time is money.