Originally Posted by Steelhead
Best to start with a Remington 700. I love Rugers and own more of them than Remingtons, but they will never be lightweight.

Bingo ^^^

Ruger 308 Hawkeye stainless all weather. 22" Barrel fluted, bolt handle skeletonized (as best it could be), bolt could not be fluted, it's a two piece bolt. As is, with a Leupold VX2 2-7X33 and sling. 7lbs 14oz, probably right @ 8lbs with 4 cartridges. Factory full zytel stock is 1oz lighter than the factory boat paddle, skeleton stock.

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In contrast, Remington SPS stainless all weather 257 Weatherby Mag.. 26" barrel fluted, bolt fluted, bolt handle skeletonized, factory stock. 6lbs 2oz, no scope. With a Leupold 2-7X33 it would be 6lbs 14oz, 7lbs all up. I put a Burris 2-10X40 Euro Diamond on it, I think that scope is 22-24Oz. Still lighter than the short action 308 Hawkeye.

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Although I like the looks of the Hawkeye, it's all esthetics, and I would not spend the money to do it again.

Ed