I can't speak to the original configuration as I got mine from BSA already in the edge stock, but I don't find the long action clunky or too big at all the way mine is set up. It is 7.75lbs all up with 4 180gr partitions in her and balances like a dream making offhand shooting very nice. I'd gladly carry this setup anywhere to do anything. I do a lot of stalking and hiking in rough country where the rifle spends it's time in my hands rather than a sling and I absolutely love it.
That rifle does carry and handle very well. The weight is just about perfect for a 30-06 class rifle. If I were to buy another one, it would be set up just like that. The stock is nice too and very grippy as compared to the B&C that it came with. The B&C also seemed long and clubby to me. Here's Matt's rifle on a template that was designed by utah708. This gives a little perspective on how the B&C compares to the Mcmillan compact on this EW: