I have the LR308B with the Heavy 18 inch barrel, and I get really good accuracy with it. It is still pretty heavy, and I have the same fears as you about fluting or dimpling. My 18" likes the lighter bullets, 155 is what I shoot.
I used the final finish system on my Service Rifle 223, and my LR308B, and I think it works. Both rifles shoot better, but they were not terrible to begin with. I think it's worth it.