Well, Jack, everyone considered BETA pretty much superior to VHS with the single exception of quantity of content that could be placed on the media.

Which one won? Americans can usually be counted on to choose "bigger" over "better" everytime. Usually. It is the nature of the beast.

I'd be willing to bet that NO American ammunition company looks at the 16 gauge cartridge as anything but a pain in their corporate ass. They do it, simply, because they have to. That is not to say they do 16 gauge loadings well, and that fact, as much as anything, may be why the 16 isn't King.

All my 20s (not a scientific sample, as there are only three, 1 double, 2 pumps) are lighter than my 2 16s. My lone 16 gauge double is a bit porky at 6 lbs 4 ozs.

But it sure is a sweetheart to shoot a 1 oz load in at that weight. The most popular gun at my house, but, if I couldn't get good English ammunition, I'd be screwed.
Best,
Ted