It is very nice carrying a light rifle, it's very nice shooting a heavy rifle! There is a point somewhere different for all of us that is a sweet spot. 6lb is great to carry but shooting it is another story. 10lb is a great shooter but not so fun to carry. I don't care how big, bad, strong, great shot you think you are NOBODY shoots a light rifle as well as a heavy rifle. Just as nobody shoots a heavy hitter as well as a rifle with light recoil. I think for most the ideal is in the 7 to 8 pound range.
I hike a lot and I can carry a little extra without a big strain on me. In the past I have carried some heavy rifles and looking back I realize for me anyways sub 9 pounds is were I want to be.
