Remember that a British splinter fore-end exists purely to house the ejectors (if fitted) and to prevent the barrels falling off the front of the firearm during reloading!

The forward hand grips the barrels well forward of the fore-end during firing.

...and yes, they do get hot!

The long fore-ends of many Continental doubles, and the Heym pictured, are a sensible compromise. For those who like to grip the barrels, the long fore-end might get in the way, but it would give some protection from hot barrels.

Beavertails are for sissies!