like others have stated your removing material from the wrong area. balance is key. a balanced rifle of greater weight feels lighter in my opinion. barrel would by #1 spot for weight removal. and length is the fastest weight loss. follow that by a light profile and your helping both balance and weight. next you may want to consider higher quality optics with less magnification (optical clarity will help you see at distance) say a high end 2-7x33 vs a entry level 3-9x40. go aluminum or Ti on the bases/rings. heavy for caliber high bc bullets with a adjustable elevation knob will help with the handicap of the shorter barrel. they will retain energy better and help buck the wind. and based off your signature it sounds like you may be in brush country so if a long shot isn't necessary a 16" lightweight barreled, short action cartridge with a 1-4 or even fixed 4 scope would be the ticket.