I’ve shot an untold number of groups at the bench with .55” barrels like the one’s you’ve posted above, including with the svelt Kimber MT’s. But that’s a different type of shooting from what is found in the field, under pressure and exertion. That’s where more barrel and rifle weight are a genuine plus. Having said that, I don’t care to lug around 8.75lb rifles anymore, hence the 7.5lb compromise. My backpack rifles will continue to be sub 7lbs, but my general purpose rifles will be north of 7lbs with no.2-type barrels.
