I find that my tropical #1 balances the best when it weighs around 9 1/2lbs....try some offhand shooting with it before you nock its weight down. You might really like the result. I have yet to shoot any game with that rifle from any position other than offhand (I'd rather shoot sitting down but wasn't lucky enough to have that chance with this rifle). I do most of my hunting in the mountains in eastern Va. I don't mind the extra weight if It aids in my shooting.

Just a thought
Pat