I have a Mod 70 featherweight in 243 and a Model Seven in 308. Like the Model Seven better.
Just put a 7-30W 21" carbine barrel on a Contender frame with a Choate stock. Overall length is 34" and weight with a 3X9 Leupold is 6 lbs. It is also as easy to shoot left handed as right handed. About once per year I find that the angle of a shot presents a more accurate opportunity from from the off side. I do not flinch from the left side either. I think the carbine will be just fine for close in woods shots where a follow up opportunity is nonexistent.
