I carried an XM-21 in Viet Nam for sniping and combat duties. I loved that rifle. If it had been a girl I would have married it. Sure, they are a little heavy but in the heat of combat, you won't notice the weight. Trust me on that issue. And when they need a precision shot, that extra weight just isn't there when you shoot it. The .308/7.62 NATO caliber rifles are a little heavier but they are worth it, especially when you're young.