I find balance is more important than weight. If you have a rifle that off balance because you've added a bipod to it - you will curse it all day long because the rifle will tend to auto rotate around your shoulder as you carry it and you will be adjusting it all day long.

A hunter can African carry it but that can lead to other problems especially if the terrain is rough.

I like a rifle that is not over 8 1/2 lbs all in, and well balanced and with a good shooting sling for carrying.