There is a LOT of emphasis on lowering rifle weights as much as possible for mountain hunting, but I seldom read anything on an equal emphasis on lowering body weight for the same benefits. Lets say you are not overweight: your bmi is right where it should be. And you can either reduce your rifle weight by even 1-2 lbs, or you can work on your body weight and lose say 4-5 lbs. Is the loss of body weight going to have the same benefits on your your ability to walk at a good pace in rough conditions as that 1-2 lbs. of less rifle weight to carry. I've never seen anything on this question.
Personally, I try to lower weight everywhere I can (without compromising safety of course). The more weight I can save the more food I can carry to stay out longer and the more weight I can pack out when successful. I also find this important as I am a solo hunter and can’t share the load. I don’t really have weight to spare off my body so gear is where I can save the most and a rifle is an easy place to start, though it’s far from the only place to cut weight. My heaviest rifle is a hair over 7lbs, I no longer carry a stove, fuel, utensils or pot. I’ve traded in my tent for an ultralight bivy… the list goes on. As I mentioned before, I don’t have much to spare when it comes to shedding body weight. With that being said I generally lose a pound a day on a trip while maintaining a 4000cal diet.
