RE: upland loads
I have a Browning "upland special" over and under 12 ga.
I love this gun and have hunted with it for over14 years.
I picked it for many reasons..
#1) 24" barrel length so it's real nice in tight NH woodlands.
#2) It's light, @ well under 7 lbs, so carrying it around all day doesn't kill you.
#3) I mostly go after Grouse, Woodcock & Rabbit and have tried many shell manufactures and have
found that Federal (target) #8 shot, holds the best pattern and doesn't blow the crap out of the birds.
#4) I go up to a heavy Federal #6 for Pheasants, which is only a couple of times a year, and kicks like a mule, considering the weight of the gun.
Attached is a picture of a day in the field with my buddies
(this is with no dogs, just me, as I'm the short one and can get into tight places)