double edged sword for me.. they are easier to bring up on aim, and to hold in the shoulder for longer periods - e.g. tracking a tree rat in the branches, waiting for the right shot.. but this ease of movement makes them a bit twitchy and less stable.
So short answer I think easier yes, but at the expense of some stability and precision.
No surprise 10M match rifles have shrouded / thick barrels and barrel weights.
Where you are rested however, and in a confined space (e.g. shooting from a vehicle) the compactness really helps.
Always looking for any cheap, interesting, knackered "project" guns. But not lathes. I have too many lathes. Thanks, JB.