Hi cascadedad,
Yes, I read the composite version is appox .75lb lighter than the laminate - so the base composite should be around 6.75lb or so ... as you know WA state doesn't allow scopes so with sling and incidentals we're talking 7lbs max - not bad at all!
I've shot both 3 1/2in 12ga turkey loads and my M70 featherweight 30-06 and know what you're referencing here. Its a comfort to know this info, let me tell you!
With the reknowned WA big game weatherI think the composite makes a lot of sense ... let us all know how things go when your new 'toys' arrive and how they shoot what loads, etc ...
cheers,
phil