Hi All,
Literally "Everyone's" comments have been great and beneficial. Thank you all very much.
After seeing some comments regarding the use of weights and possible stock damage, I went onto the manufacturer's site and reviewed FAQs. The specific concern regarding stock damage and using weights was addressed and manufacturer stated absoutely no possible stock damage to a modern firearm stock. I decided to write an email to the Customer Support specifically requesting they reiterate that company testatment (they have no phone number - ??). It has been 5 days and no response. In addition, I am not able to connect to their web site today. Not saying they are out of business but it does imply they have inhouse issues.
Caldwell Lead Sled
"Just because" the manufacturer says one thing, does not mean it is "Gospel". I experienced that with a very very very expensive motorcycle purchase in 2003, the manufacturer stated a serious issue "was not an issue". Thank you internet! Owners around the globe complained on the same issue and finally the manufacturer after almost 2 years (yup 2 years), admitted to the issue and kinda corrected the issue worldwide.
Anyway, I will take my chances on a new rifle with a new modern synthetic stock and use the Lead Sled as purposely purchased. I did order the wrong Sled and so the Lead Sled I purchased would not hold Barbell Weights. After gleaning your comments, as soon as my Sled came in, I improvised, flattened the rear tray lip (looks like it was manufactured that way it was that easy), used an improvised center peg (broom handle piece) to hold two 25# weights together and then used some (3) $5.99 velcro straps to hold weights in place. (It works perfectly!!! - ran 32 rounds through it and the weights never moved or straps never loosened) If I want to add more weight I guess I can add lead bags to barbell weight. I do not strap the rifle down to the Sled so not sure if that is a bad or good thing in my case.
With my 338 Win Mag, the recoil is reduced probably 70%-75%. so much so that I can use this setup all day if I wanted but only using it for ammo testing and scope zeroing. Thereafter firing from bi-pod or sandbags. (Getting a Muscle Brake by Jim See installed so will show before and after videos once gunsmith work is complete.)
The Lead Sled still jumps back about 1.5" to 2" each shot and does lose sight-in alignment "after the shot" but works well for each current shot. Turning the big wheel for elevation adjstment works fine but then locking the adjustment tends to affect the elevation adjustment so one has to play around with it to accomodate the lock-in affect. Also once one places one's shoulder against the butt and places any weight against the Lead Sled or rifle the sight-in can be affected so one also has to accomodate for that as well. Lastly, make sure bench is very sturdy. A wobbly bench just won't work.
All in all, I am very happy with the purchase for the price compared to some nice rigs that cost upwards of $350.00+. I highly recommend it. Just keep in mind one has to modify sight-ins with some effort.