I have a Sako finlight, and with Leupold steel rings it weighs in at 6 pounds 4 ounces. I guess I'll add a 6x20 Leupold, and it will still be under 7.5 pounds. It looks like weight can be added to the hollow forend. The butt has some openings when I removed the pad, but it looks like lead shot would shift in there. Any suggestions on weighting tactics?

I believe a solid chunk of lead that is secured would be best. Shot is fine but needs to be bonded together with some kind of glue then secured in place. What ever you add make it so you can remove it. DO NOT pour hot lead into an opening on a stock--plastic melts and wood will burn and may damage finish with the heat.

Silicone caulking can be used to partially or completely fill the voids reducing that hollow noise, dampening vibrations, and reducing recoil. It is it's own adhesive and cheap to boot.

My stock has a grid cast into it with about a 1/2 x 1/4 inch opening at the top and bottom. The rest of the grid has something that looks like a sheet metal backing. So I could pour in some shot, but it looks like it would slosh around. The shot may be able to could come out a hole at the back of the receiver. I am pretty afraid of cutting into it without advice. I also saw a saw a model 75 laminated stock for sale, but I don't know if that would fit the 85. I am also considering a solid mild steel spacer but I don't know who sells them.