This truly is a function of personal preference. As to why the small forend exists at all, it is because it (and the straight grip) are direct decendents of the earlier percussion guns. The only traction for BTs and pronounced pistol grips (vice the Prince of Whales) is here in the US. I suspect that has more to do with an emphasis on the practical (particularly mid-20th century) in this country rather than on the aesthetic. All of my guns but two have splinters, and they are split about half and half with regard to pistol grips of one form or the other. I don't notice any particular difference shooting them, but I prefer the "look" of a splinter. For instance I have two big LC Smith pigeon guns. Specialty grades, the metal is virtually identical, and each has 32 inch tubes. One is built with a straight grip and splinter, the other with full BT and pistol grip. I shoot about the same scores with both, but there is no doubt in my mind which gun is more attractive. The pistol grip gun is a big, massive 1 1/4 ounce lead launcher that looks and seems very big in the hand. The gun in English drag is a big, massive 1 1/4 ounce lead launcher that looks and seems very lean in the hand. I prefer the latter, but that is all it is - preference.
