For what it's worth....I have a Browning A-bolt hunter in 300 WSM topped with a Simmons AETEC. Fully loaded and with a sling it tips the scales at a very light touchunder8 pounds. While it isn't the most fun thing to shoot off of the bench it certainly isn't a rediculous recoiler either. After putting 50 rounds through it(on the bench) I developed a black and blue shoulder and it was becoming rather painful to shoot. Now, don't take this to mean it'sall that stout....50 magnum rounds with nothing but a T-shirt and a factory recoil pad had more to do with it than anything, IMO. The Ruger is all of 3 ounces heavier without 'stuff' on it or in it per the manufactures. I imagine it won't make a lick of difference.