The 301 is a great machine, but it's not light. I have one in a case and I would not like to have to lug it to and from classes. For one thing, it's not a good idea to trust the hinges on those old cases, so it requires two-handed lifting and carrying.
Lots of quilters take the Gem to and from classes. It's about the same weight as a featherweight (12 lbs). My guess is the 301 is closer to 18 lbs without the case, and the case will add something too.
The 301 is a great machine for using at a fixed station at home. I know some quilters take a 301 to classes, but from what I have observed they are all younger quilters than I am ( :lol: ) and stronger, more limber (and unarthritic, unlike me!).
Edit: Okay, I found a website that says the 301 weighs 16 lbs. Still, 4 extra pounds is 4 extra pounds! Not sure how much the case weighs.......