I like long barrels. They're super good at resisting sway in high winds. My 243 varmint rifle has a 28" long barrel that's 1" in diameter. With scope, sling, and 5 rounds in the magazine it comes in at around 17 lbs.
Only problem I've experienced due to having a long barrel is while walking with it slung over the shoulder. Tripped over a log hidden in the snow and ferns once that put me down on my hands and knees. Well... That barrel whacked me in the back of the head so damned hard I saw stars. Laid there for a while wondering if I was going to be spending the night in the woods
