Ok...last changes made.
I went with a non-EDGE stock and took the barrel to 24".
Finished gun weight should be right at 7 1/2lbs. and I think the overall balance and portability of the rifle will be great

7 1/2lbs. unscoped of course

Here's one mans comparison on the 2 calibers for whatever it's worth.Compared: The 7mm Rem. Mag. and .300 Win. Mag

Ridge,
This will be an "all around" hunting rifle. Not built for a specific purpose .
That's why I've tried to keep it average weight, average barrel length and contour, ECT.
As for the caliber, I've just always wanted a .300 Win. Mag.

i would't worry the difference about recoil, if you like the rifle, you're goin to shoot it, you'll never feel it when you're shootin at game