JWP, I basically agree with everything your saying and if you search my posts on the subject, including this thread, you will see that I am a BIG NF fan. I also agree that heavier rifles, assuming they are well built, are better LR platforms. My dedicated LR outfit ATM, is a Sendero with a 5.5-22x50 NF scope which weighs in at about 11 lbs without bipod. It is my carry rifle and I have put on a few miles with it in mountain country.
Having said that, everyone's definition of LR is different as well as their approach to it. Although I believe the NF NXS's are about the best LR scope available, there are some lighter ones that will get the job done. There are a number of folks using Zeiss's, Leupy's, Sightrons, Clearidge, etc. Vortex is coming out with some good scopes as well. These scopes are not the same caliber as a NF, but they will get the job done out to 1000 plus yds. In short, I dont think you need a 2 lb scope to successfully hunt LR.
My advise to the OP is still to get a NF NSX if he can afford it and IMO, the dif in weight is not that big of a deal for what you get. I will gladly carry mine around all day.
Corey, those are some great looking bucks no matter how far you shot them
mark