My primary rifle weighs 7.5 lbs with scope and is a joy to carry, and still shoots well.

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Rem 700 LA
McMillan Rem Classic Edge
Rock Creek #3, 30 cal, finished at 22.75 inches
Chambered in 30-06
Leupold 6x42 scope

I rarely carry my rifle using my sling. It's comfortable in hand, so I just don't use the sling much.

This rifle had a Bartlein #3 on it before the Rock #3. The Bart was a bit too chunky for what I wanted, so I sold it pretty soon. The balance was too far forward.

I think you might consider a bit shorter barrel (between 22 and 23 inches would be my pick). I also wouldn't go heavier than the Bartlein 2B, and even that is a bit heavy. I think you would really like a Hart #2 or Hart #3 sized barrel with the Edge.

Let us know how it works out!