I'm not sure where you see a "Nurbs Set Weight" button... the W-key in editmode has the softbody option only yes.

Currently the weights can be directly edited in the 3d window properties (press Nkey). I agree the 2.4 option (should be option in toolbar) is useful to have back.

Ah, thank you very much Ton, I searched blender for weights, the web, and the wiki, kept getting 2.4 info.

Might I also suggest [Shift + E] for a shortcut.
As this is the shortcut for edge weight in poly editing, it seems a logical and consistent choice. (seeing as they both have similar behavior)

Nathan: also note that the 3d view (Nkey) properties allow to change weights for an entire selection.

We'll mark the options for hotkeys or menus as todo though, there's enough on our list now!

Ha ha, yes yes, sorry Ton, I am aware of the amount of work you all have done on 2.5 and that there is still much to do.
I found the W value, which is fine, I just added the suggestion in case it's easier to do it all at once, instead of an after thought.

And if I haven't said it enough already, chances are I haven't.
Thank you very much for all your efforts in turning Blender into the wonderful tool it is today.