If you are looking for a compromise two rifles come to mind. The Remington M700 LV SF (light varmint stainless fluted). The rifle has a medium weight fluted barrel and blind magazine to reduce weight. The total weight is 6.75# and it's available in the popular varmint calibers.

Another rifle that might fit the bill a bit better is the Browning A-Bolt Varmint Stalker that weighs in at 7lbs. 13 oz. It has a 24" barrel and a medium weight varmint barrel. I think the weight of this rifle is similar to most standard sporters but it carries a heavier contour barrel. It is available in the WSSM calibers and the standard popular varmint calibers. The stock also comes with the Dura-Touch coating which I like very much.