I just finished setting up 336 as a Scoutgun, 4X scope in an XS mount in front of the action, balances and handles like a dream.
I've wanted a Scoutgun for years, since Cooper first wrote about it, but his parameters and mine are a little different. Seven pounds all up is a nice goal, but I refuse to go to ridiculous lengths over a few ounces. If it feels good at 7-1/2, so be it! Cooper also alluded to a minimum caliber of 308, my needs are a little different, so a 35 Rem or 44 might work just fine.
Now if I could just get marlin to make a 357 in stainless.....sigh.
PJ the Hopeful