Hi Paul,
The barrel isn't that heavy, it's just heavier than normal, It's 0.1" thicker overall on it's entire length, than my other 3, No4's and heavier still at the receiver end enough to prevent the handgaurd from closing where-as my other handgaurd's go on with ease and room to spare. I own 2 long lee's and it's heavier than those, if I pretend the first 5 or6 inches is missing and start from there. Thanks for the link nice rifles, haven't seen them before.
The main reason, I'm so interested in this barrels origins is, that I love Australianicon Range rifles, and as I cannot buy one in Canadaicon I'm building one. A Buddy in N.Z, sent me some parts so I have a nice start, but a Barrel in the post would get us into trouble I think. Although I've checked with everyone in Canada and they say I'm OK, but I think your end would be the problem. Anyhow, I'm in need of the barrel now, I have most other parts. I purchased this gun, to either use the barrel, or sell as parts to pay for it.
Seeing as it's caused so much trouble, I kinda like it now, and I agree with you the sporterised parts are well done, and look good. The muzzle is a professional job, not a bubba's garage special. I cut the ring into the handgaurd to match, but I think a company has done the rest. I would like to find another of these barrels in full length for my sniper/range rifle, if I know what it was. Anyway Thanks for the compliment, and the links and info.

Regards Ian