I agree with Brads assessment on the Montana vs. Adk/Ascent comparison. I personally would carry a Montana. But 4ager indicated his commitment to the rifle style so I didn't go there. Having spent a fair amount of time behind a variety of 84M's I have proven to myself that lightweight can be a liability if you are a true rifle loony. Saving overall weight on a backpack hunt is a necessary pursuit that becomes a series of trade-offs. Certainly 4ager realizes that fact and he is going to be a "minimalist" on the mountain.
Short of a Kifaru Rambing Rifle, the Adk/Ascent style is a good middle ground for his journey.
Which rifle scope to use is another viable topic as weight is also a factor.
I would be reaching for a proven Leupold 6x36 LR in Talley LW's. I also would consider a duplicative scope in the event of an unforeseen event. There are a lot of weight variables to consider besides the rifle/scope package.
When you are going to live out of your backpack, you need to spend time with a digital scale.
