I got the 16 ga bug about 10 years ago with a Jap made Sweet Sixteen. That gun was so-so in handling and weight.
I graduated to a high end citori and recently added a Merkel SxS.
I shoot both quite well and will be hammering doves with the Merkel, next week.
If I couldn't reload for it, I likely would not keep the guns. Ammo is fairly easy to find, cause I live close to cabelas, but except for light clays loads (herters) its pricey.
Its a fun gauge. Necessary? No, but I enjoy trying different guns and gauges. If I didn't I'd still be shooting that 1968 Winchester 1200, no rib, fixed full choke 12 ga.
