I've been waffling on my "longer range" hunting build for some time. I finally settled on a fluted heavy sporter for the barrel. All up, scoped, I'm hoping for ~8.5-9lbs. There is a compromise to be made between weight and the ability to shoot at longer ranges confidently and in varying conditions, shooter error being the biggest factor. Not too many people can shoot a sub 7.5lb scoped rifle as good as a 14lb rig. But 14lbs obviously is a bit much when trekking through the hills. If you're not experienced enough, or care enough to take longer range shots, you don't need a 9lb rifle. Stick with the featherweights and be happy... But if you do have the experience, and you do want the ability to take them longer shots confidently, you will understand that the little extra "meat" makes a bit of difference, and be happier than heck to be carrying a 9lb rig instead of a 10lb rig. Comfort and ergos is another thing. If the 33oz stock is more comfortable to me than the 24oz stock, at least in a longer range rifle, I'll go with comfort over reduced weight every time.
I suspect Hells Canyon is targeting a specific group of customers, who will know and understand this.
