Yes. I have one of the original models, have been using it for 20 years or so for many different rifles and a ML. I add maybe 10 pounds of weight. Has worked just fine, hasn't damaged any rifles, and no, it doesn't cause me any issues with flinching or anything else when shooting at game. For me it's just a very convenient way to get a rock solid rest that is very helpful, especially when doing load development. Everyone has an opinion on these things and I don't believe there's a wrong or a right one. To each, his own....