I handled one of the 21"X 1" versions once and as expected, it was way-too muzzle-heavy to suit me. If you've ever tried to carry/use one of them heavy-barrelled, plastic-stocked, Remington Sendero's in the field, you'll have a fair idea of what I'm getting at.
On the other hand, being awkward & out of balance probably wouldn't factor-in much when shooting off of sandbags or a bi-pod. And to be fair, the guy who's ASI I handled was doing some perty-dern fancy shooting with it....about what could be expected from a good bolt gun.
I guess in the end, what it comes down to is what you want your gun to do and how much you're willing to spend in order to get it there.
Me personaly, I'm fine with my Mini as-is.....but I do inderstand why the next guy wouldn't be.
DGW
