This is an interesting discussion touching upon several areas of what amount to personal preference.

First, the weight. It seems that Purdey and H&H are not willing to produce barrels below a certain wall thickness and weight. I know this from several reports of frustrated individuals looking for just the right balance and feel. It isn't that the other top guns aren't first rate, it is that the particular shooter is looking for a particular result.

Second, the standard of finished gun. Despite having perhaps the most horrible photographs of any gunmaker, Louca guns are made to a very high standard indeed. It is not just my opinion that Watson Bros. shotguns are the equal of that of Purdey or H&H with about the same amount of hours in each. However, the aesthetics are going to appeal to some more than others. But it is probably just aesthetics and no actual difference in perceivable quality from what I have seen and from what I have heard. (I look forward to posts from owners and craftsmen on this aspect.)

Third, the degree to which a perfect gun for any one individual is a peculiar matter. Height of action, treatment of fences, shape of trigger bow... Salopian may pine for a Brown or a Greener(as would most sane people) while another "needs" a Purdey or a Holland and Holland. It is a matter of personal taste at some point, it seems. But, at this price point, one can trust that the quality is there and cherished as part of the reputation of the maker.