Having actually hunted with just about everything over the years...its depends. I shot 2 deer with my 18" barreled AR-10 (Which is specifically an Armalite) and scoped it was just at 9 pounds. My .338-06 scoped is a Weatherby Ultralight and is 6 1/2 pounds...there is a LOT of difference. I would not hesitate the go with the Remington if that is the one you like, they have excellent customer service.
Forward assist is COMPLETELY useless on a hunting rifle. The dust cover is not a big deal, but could keep snow and dirt out of the upper. It can be closed with a round chamnbered and flips open when the gun is fired or manually unloaded.