I got one last year and shot it a couple hundred times.. I like it.. the trigger is not like a bolt for pull and smoothness, but accuracy is very good and never had a jam.. still playing with it.. mine has the forward assist and dust cover...I would like a 5 shot or ten shot clip for it to make it more sleek... I have not done much but sight it and plink with it, so no real range reports yet..
the weight is a bit much for a sporter, but I intend to use it a bit first then decide whether to change it or not.. I would bet if you wanted a lighter upper and barrel, someone would trade you in a minute..
I like the lesser recoil, and I hunt from a stand or and often use a pistol.. I will use it... I even sold my Ruger No. One to ensure I would use it this year coming for deer.
I never tried a lighter model but I bet it is not hard to get sporting arm sized groups, if that suits you.. everything is a trade off.
dk