I have the Savage 12bvss in 22-250. I'm switching the action into a synthetic stock because the original stock is soooo bulky. I realize it's a bench rest gun, but I'm using it in a different way (packing it around). Lucky I have arms like the 70's Arnold (lol) so the weight is not a problem. I think it's a floating stock, and I think the aftermarket stock is as well. Just what is a floating barrel and how do you benefit from it???? Thanks!!!

It isolates the vibrations of the barrel when the shot is fired resulting in better consistency from shot to shot. Some skinny barrels vibrate so much that they shoot better with pressure from the stock, which serves to dampen the vibration. Most heavy barrels shoot better free floated because stock material is never completely inert and will change pressure on the barrel as temperature changes, resulting in inconsistent accuracy. All things considered I like all my barrels free floated, even the skinny ones. They seem to give better accuracy and consistency day in and day out.