YOu're right, Jaz- technically, the ball and shot guns were lighter. Wil's 5 bore was meant for ball, but would, of course, handle shot as would any double smoothbore with sights, regardless of weight. To have been built specifically for ball and shot, it would have been lighter than specific ball guns. Due to having sights, it is obvious it is meant for ball. I do believe the ball and shot guns were somewhat heavier than normal English shotguns, which would run in the 7 to 8 pound bracket for 12. I don't think the weights grew too much until smokeless powders came about in 90's. Then, the heavy 12 bore load increased to 1-1/4 ounce and weights ran 8 to even 9 pounds, I believe. 'course, I might be thinking of something else.