Advantages of a Heavier (weight) Rifle

I can shoot off-hand with my 6.5lbs Win 94 30-30 much better than I can with my 11lbs M1917 30-06. I only weigh 140lbs so that might be the deciding factor.

That said, I like all my rifles equally. I'll still hit with acceptable accuracy with either rifle, at the target sizes and distances I'd shoot at off-hand.
 
IMO, it's strictly purpose as to which is better.

One thing about a lightweight rifle: There's no reason it can't be built such that the balance point is a bit forward and it's slightly "muzzle heavy". That takes out a lot of wobble for off-hand shooting in the field.

A style of shooting where controllability is a factor justifies a heavier rifle. Generally, hunting is not included there. (I've never really heard or felt my '06 going bang when Bambi was in the scope.) Heavy is fine for paper-punching or rapid semi-auto.

My 2¢, anyhow...
 
I dont mind a heavy rifle (within reason of course). I seem to be more steady with them from off hand. Since I usually dont hunt from stands or blinds, most of my shots are off hand, kneeling, or if there is time, prone. Most of the time the game is far enough away that I am able to fire prone.

Still, that means lugging the rifle around for sometimes days and days, but that is of little consequense to me. A good sling will make a bit of difference too. Find one that is comfortable.

If you cant lug around a rifle that is 8-10 lbs then perhaps a bit of excercise would be in order. I am almost 65 and still seem to be able to pack an M77R in 300wm all day. Granted, it does get a bit heavy toward the end of the day, but for me, its worth it.
 
I find it easier to establish my natural point of aim/ natural position with a heavier rifle like the M-14. I tend to muscle lighter weapons like the M-16.

I dunno...Once i'm locked in with a heavier rifle, i'm really "locked" in however, i am able to aquire targets so much faster with a light rifle.
 
I hunt from a blind and only went on one trip out west. I don't care what the gun weighs because after I get it to the stand I sit. I like a heavier gun because it's steadier to aim.

When shooting competitive archery I used to take the bow apart and "lead in" the pockets under the limbs. It works.
 
Well, if you are going to spend 10 days in the mountains walking and climbing miles every day and maybe every other year you get a shot at an elk, carrying a 10 pound rifle because you may be able to shoot it marginally better is not a good trade IMO.
 
I would carry my Heavy girl, hunting in a blind or the mountains. To me its like saying you can go to the forest and clear it and the thing is do you want a ms440 magum Stihl or a hand saw. And humping in the CORPS with full pack back in the day 70's you do what you must to get the job done. But thats just me....
 
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