thanks for all the feedback. I have talked with Tumi and have received the following weights of their models:

26141 7.32 lb
26180 6.57 lb
26150 7.28
96160 9.39, 2160 is 9.11 lbs.
5564 4.9 (but doesn't really fit my need)

really am leaning towards the 26141 but I have to check to see if my laptop will fit it. Unfortunately I don't think it will which may force me to the 26150 (I hope not). I have ruled out the leather because of the extra weight (and cost). Interesting enough, my current bare bones Targus weighs 2.9 lbs. so in any event I may have to start lifting weights just to carry one of these. Seems like the "safecase" adds a couple of extra pounds to the case. After walking around with it I have to believe that extra weight will become very important.