cut down/short length o/u shotguns

[Moonclip]

How come double barreled shotguns that are of a short defensvie length barrel size are usually side by side type?  I think they look neat in a over/under configuration. 

Stoeger now makes on called the outback, I really want one.  Has like 20in barrels and even has interchangeable choke tubes and a basic real rifle sight. Seems a very versatile gun in 12 ga. 

[jacques]

I kinda like the side by side myself. There must be a functional reason for side by side versus over under though. I could see and over under being more accurate for hunting as opposed to a side by side because the barrel is in the line of sight. I do not have either, but would a side by side be quicker to reload?

[Moonclip]

I don't see much of a difference in reloading times.  I have both styles but don't shoot them much.