tzone -
Regarding .338WM rifles...
1. They aren't necessarily heavy, as has been pointed out. Mine has a fluted 22" barrel and weighs no more than my .300WM or 7mm RM and not significantly more than my or 280 or others.
Thanks for chiming in. I was thinking and hoping a 22" barrel would work out. If the budget will allow, flutes will be part of it. If not, that's ok too.