RE: Shotgun for Bird Hunting
I have a Browning Citori Feather, 20 ga., 26in barrels, weighs 6lbs 3oz. It's great upland gun and shoots 3" shells as well.
A light weight Browning that I know of is the Citori Feather Upland, 12ga., 2.75" shells only, and weighs about the same as my 20 ga. I believe this model has the straight English grip, Schnabel forarm and 24" barrels though.
Keep in mind that you will pay a good price for a Browning. If you go that route and don't want to spend much money, try to find a used one.
Also, keep in mind, the barrel length. I love the 26" for hunting, but my competition gun has 28" barrels and the 28" barrels swing nicely but will add a few more ounces!!! Try some out before you make a purchase!