DBBill:

The answer to your question is: depends. For a given weight, an o/u will be stronger. However, for a few ounces, one can easily make sxs stronger.

I think it isn't a question of which is better, it is a question of which you prefer. I prefer a sxs myself, but a strong one. The purchasing a double to me means shooting it. The thought of a limited lifespan would keep me from buying it.

How well it handles is more a function of the center of gravity and weight than anything else. It isn't difficult to make either a sxs or an o/u handle poorly.

RobertD