Lloyd
I know this is the Parker Board (and Section) but this seems to be a thread that is straddling the line with "Other Doubles". I think you have hit around the edges of an important point. From the period of hammer doubles in the US, the lightweight and/or small bore double is rare and relatively expensive as compared to larger heavier guns. They are wonderful when found but can be quite costly for experimentation. Conversely, English and Continental doubles are readily available, both as 6-1/2 # quick handling 12 gauges and 6# 16 gauge guns. I have a whole section of a gun room full of them. If someone came to me and asked "Where should I look for lightweight quick handling hammer upland guns" my advise would be a German, Italian or French from the 1910 to 1930's period. There a scores of guns from which to pick. The German guns are remarkably robust without excessive weight and the French guns can range from quirky to absolutely beautiful. Higher grade Belgian guns also qualify but only from the better makers. My pick would be a 16 ga at around 6 pounds even for an all around upland gun. Keep in mind that Germany for most of it's shooting history has had lifetime limits on the number of guns you may own. In that environment, the single most commonly encountered gun is a light 16. Sauer models are common in the market. I have stopped buying any (although will look at high grade models) but have purchased many for less than $1000. I purchased one very high grade Belgian model in new condition for this price which is the most impressive hammer gun I have ever handled.
English hammer guns tend to be earlier than this period and almost exclusively 12 ga.
If you want to experiment in the whole concept, this is the place to do it. After that, let your heart guide you into the more expensive market.
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