IMO the only reason to buy a magnum is for enhanced performance. So why give up some performance with a shorter barrel. I am having a custom built right now with a Krieger barrel. I opted to go with a 28" barrel. For performance. If a light weight was your goal then you would have went with a short action light weight rifle, but you didn't. You went with a long action 7 Mag. Go with a 28" barrel and let the big dog eat. Tom.