To be honest, I don't think there have been 500 pellets down the barrel. It isn't just the hold sensitivity but also the sound of the main spring crunching and a harsh shot cycle. As for the stock; I don't mind the synthetic stock as it is much more dense than many other synthetics out there and the slim feel makes a nice winter hunter as intended. Also looking to the future when consumable parts need replacement.
to be honest, i would actually send the gun back to Mike and have him tune the original parts... i can attest that he will return a gun unrecognizable to your hands. call or email him and tell him what you would like your gun to do... if possible he will do it. and all that for 100$ i think.