Now this was a review that I can understand. If they changed the position of the safety lever to where it pointed to the rear would that help the safety or would an Ambidextrous safety help. Although I do have rifles that you have to take your hand off of the trigger to turn off or on the safety so as you said not a deal breaker.
Because your hand is farther back than on a pistol grip, you noticing that the stock feels shorter is very believable and because of how your hand is moved anatomically I would bet that it is shorter. Great Catch!!
I really am glad to hear that the rifle shot great with the stock installed and that your shooting position overall was comfortable. Major plus and everything else seemed that it may be fixable....Now if you want to send the stock to me I would sure try it out. LOL