I can't comment on the SKB as I've never shot or handled one. I have a 20 ga 147E with straight hand stock and splinter forend. With 27" barrels, it weighs 5 lb 14 oz. It's too tight to comfortably open and since it kicks the heck out of me with 7/8 oz loads, I haven't shot it enough to loosen it up. I'm gonna try some light loads and/or have it loosened up by a good gunsmith.

Merkels have a reputation for being stout guns and based on my experience I agree.