There's one thing for sure: every person has a different preference for weight, balance, and "swing". There is no "one size fits all" in double rifles any more than in a Sunday suit.

The Brits followed one line of reasoning when it comes to weight and balance. Often we see the Continentals with another line of reasoning. In my opinion a 10 lb. .303 Brit. is WAY over weight, yet it is common in the British trade. As a comparison we see zillions of 7.5 to 8.0 lb. 8mm rifles out of Germany and Austria. Say what you want, but I'll prefer the light 8mm's. I think they are just perfect in their class, and the Brits never got the concept.

I see no reason why a .450/.400 can't be handy at 9.0 lbs. It doesn't kick that much. We see many bolt guns in .375 H&H Mag that weigh 8.5 lbs. and don't take issue with them.

In summary, the 10.0 lb and up standard of British DR's is a mystery to me. We can blindly sign on to the philosophy, but that doesn't mean they were right.

JMHO,
Curl