Rich, might be just a question of proper balance...I would try that first, I know this will add a bit to the overall weight but once properly balanced it might not be that noticeable...for me taking out metal would be the last option, I'd always take the cautious approach, you can also look at lightening up the forend and try and balance it that way.

Claudio

The taste of poor quality lingers long after the cheap price is forgotten.........