Mark,you are on the right track, IMO. However, you should really determine the handling characteristics you want (enjoy shooting or shoot well - not necessarily the same thing). Here is a starting point: Weight 7#12 oz, balance 4 3/4" to (front)trigger, unmounted swing effort 1.9, and mounted swing effort 8.5. These numbers may not suit you, but are a good place to start.
I think highly of the AyA #56 and would not be afraid of an old one.
AyA M-56 SLE #568629 Weight = 7# 10 1/2 oz, Balance to trigger = 5 3/4", Unmounted swing = 2.00, Mounted swing = 8.86, 12 ga, bbls = 30", LOP = 14 5/8", and 1/2 weight radius = 11.00 (not compact).
AyA Model 53 SLE Weight = 7# 10 oz, Balance to trigger = 6", Unmounted swing = 1.79, Mounted swing = 8.39, 12 ga, bbls = 30", LOP = 14", 1/2 WR = 10.44 (compact).
See the differences? The #53 will be a bit quicker for the same weight. Add the extra 5/8" of stock for equal LOP and I'll bet these two guns would be hard to tell apart for handling. Swing is hard to get (unless you want to work with me), but weight and balance should be readily available and will tell you if a gun is inthe "ball game."
