Way too light in 12 gauge is a pretty broad statement, Dick-mine spent some time behind the seat in a Mazda 2200 pickup, where it was put to excellent use. Recoil is no problem with the Winchester Featherlites, which, weren't available when you bought yours for your wife-bet she would like using the gun today with that ammunition.
You either need a handy, folding shotgun, or, you don't-If you don't, then it is a waste of money. If you do, there isn't any other single shot that compares, quality wise, to those Italian folders.
Best,
Ted
