Ernie-
I, too, am poised to purchase a .308 bolt-action.
A while ago, the Forum helped with massive doses of information. I was looking at the Remington 700P LTR. Really nice rifle.
At this point, I'm considering more of what you referred to as a "heavy-ass sniper rifle", albeit, mine will be more in line with the "tweaky-tush sharpshooter" style...
Not as heavy nor heavy-duty as a military sniper rifle.
Lighter and better suited to the urban sharpshooter role.
My final choice is the Remington 700P PSS in .308.
My decision for the heavier bbl. was influenced by:
the fact that the stock is a true full-size version, and therefore can be retained for use as a "sniper" rifle stock at a later date (I'm changing the stock to a Hogue, which is actually 3 oz. heavier, but much trimmer), and, the LTR stock is shorter/narrower with oddly spaced sling swivel studs...;
the 26" bbl. length precludes excessive muzzle "flip and flash", especially when using the Federal High Energy or Hornady Light Magnum ammunition, which ups the power ante of the .308 to approximate .30-06 levels. This was a major reason to go with the PSS.
This rifle will use the Leupold Tactical 4.5-14x40 1" tube Mil-Dot scope, probably in Leupold QR 1-pc. base and med. rings, totally adequate for my needs.
More items are planned, like the Harris bipod; Brownells Latigo sling and a stock pouch for the tools. Still working on the details.
It is NOT a sniper rifle, it is an "urban target" rifle.
Good Luck on your choice.