My pack is typically many times more heavy than rifle. I had a .338 Win Mag that was probably 11.5 # loaded with scope and sling, and frankly I never noticed. But then I have had to hump gear for many years. For an office worker that does not prepare physically for the field, I could see where it might be a burden. I admit I do feel things now more in my 50's.

The varmint cartridges in 22 Centerfire with a regular barrel don't have much whip, and unless you are heating up prairie dog town, you may not need the extra steel. I just bought a .223 Remington and I had to make the choice again. Having fired the M700 for years in 222 with good accuracy in a sporter barrel, I went with a sporter 24 inch barrel again.

If keyhole groups at 100 yards is your goal, or if you are moving up in caliber, personally I would look harder at a heavy barrel.