Barrel size/dimensions/profile current M70 vs. current Browning

[MZ5]

Can anyone help me with this?  I'm curious about the relative size/profile/dimensions (whatever you want to call it) of the current-production Winchester M70 (the Sporter, not the Featherweight) vs. the current production Browning (A or X bolt; I don't really care).

I'm contemplating a 30-06, but I'd really like a barrel that's a little longer than the 'standard' 22", and I'd like it to be a little heavier profile than a 'lightweight' sporter rifle.

Of course, part of my ideal desire includes a 3-position tang-mounted safety, a 60-degree (or less) bolt lift, made in the USA, nice dark walnut, and quality, polished bluing.

So, since I can't apparently have my wish list without going custom or doing another Savage/Marlin build (not interested at this point), I'm looking at a Browning A-bolt Medallion with a 26" pipe vs a Model 70 Sporter with a 24".

Does anyone have any experience with these two?  Are the barrel profiles different enough you can see or feel it without calipers or a micrometer?

While we're at it, I notice that the M70 is several ounces heavier.  Now, ounces aren't enough for me to notice if the balance of the rifle is right.  Nevertheless, I was wondering whether the weight difference might be to do with barrel profile?  Or is it just steel in the receivers, etc?  I'd actually prefer a _heavier_ rifle rather than a lighter one.

Or, if anyone knows of a dealer who has succeeded in getting Browning to make them a run of BAR Safaris in 30-06 with 24 - 26" pipes, let me know!

[Mikey]

I think the sporters wear a 'sporter' barrel, which is a #4 contour, which runs slightly heavier than the 'lightweight' barrels and I believe you can tell the difference just looking at them.  I believe you can access barrel maker's sites, like Hart, Shilen, etc., and view the different profiles to at least view their measurements to see how they compare.  As for the length:  I don't know if the rifle makers went to a 22" bbl for its ease of handling and weight saving but I have owned 06s with 26", 24" and now 22" barrels and I really do not think I lose muh of anything with a 22" tube.  jmtcw.

[MZ5]

Thanks, Mikey!  If I were to choose, I'd probably choose about a #5 contour, but if you think the Winnie bbls are heavier than the Brownings, I'll try to find a place with both in there and look at them side-by-side.