Yes, you are perfectly correct, Nick, but I was making a statement in the spirit of the thread, presuming that JohnB wasn't heading for the British Champs anytime soon. I generally score mid to high eighties in club 10m comps, and of the two Alphas competing in the Bisley club league we currently lie first and third. For 'serious competition' John should expect to pay upwards of £1000, but I would recommend the Alpha as a reasonably-priced starter. It is also possible to add a grip shelf should you desperately need one.
Dave