On another topic here (about changes coming at Arietta), the subject of gun weights came up. The comparison was made between vintage English and modern Spanish shotguns, and the pros and cons of each. Hopefuly, this thread will further clarify that subject. To start, I am sadly afflicted by the need to travel to Northern Minnesota every year to walk forest trails in search of Bonasa Umbellus (ie. the Ruffed Grouse). Much to the dismay of my wonderful spouse, I've expended a great deal of thought, time, and money to somehow improve this situation in a way that tips the scales in my favor when faced with this particular bird. I have ferried many a gun through the tender mercies of TSA to be field tested in the boreal forests along the Canadian Shield. Ranging from good Spanish sidelock 12s to light English 20-bore hammerguns to nickel steel Model 12s. Duty calls, more later.