FWIW, I settled the question for myself four years ago by having a Ruger #3 custom rifle built to my specs. Its a dandy and weighs in just a smidge over 7 lbs scoped. It has a shotgun style, straight, stock; nice Michigan black walnut; and a tighter than normal chamber but still within SAAMI limits. Ruger later came out with one in SS/wood configuration and now has a wood blue model on offer. But I'm glad I went for the touches I got.
1B
