RE: Breeds you have owned, own, and opinions
I agree with your thought/idea on the "Versatile" Lab, a great thought! Heck my lab was just that, seeing it was half Springer or Setter, a great Lab and pointer/flusher. I would love to try a Pointer and a Lab cross. Knew a girl that had one for a pet but she don't hunt and lives in GA.
I used to be intimidated by range by a good pointer will hold your birds til you get there. mine are generally within 150 yards radius but they do run out and circle back and do the finish work.