Let's kick this up a notch,as one of the more offensive cooks on TV says...
First, while a 12 has unmatched versatility, we're looking for a more specialized weapon here,and maybe one with easily portable ammo.
Two boxes of 12 ga ammo would weigh as much as that SS.
The use environment has to be considered. Is there be any threat from large carnivores where you'll be hiking? Bears,pumas,gators, venomous reptiles. velociraptors(G)?
Or,much danger from two legged predators?
And, is there Rabies present in the area? Rabid animals lose their fear of people.
Let's posit an ammo stash of 2 or 3 rds of buck for the predators, maybe 2 slugs, and say,10 rds of shot, half 7 1/2 and half 4s. Call that about 3 lbs. Add a light 12,16, or 20 ga, say 6 lbs, total weight 9 lbs. Let's posit a fixed Modified choke as a compromise, and an experienced shooter who knows the capabilities of the shotgun. At this point, we have a package capable of collecting most North American Game quite handily, defending one's life, and still packable.
Downsides....
If needed quickly, broken down in the pack may be as useless is if it t'were still back home.
One shot w/o reloading. Usually plenty. I suggest a shotgun with an ejector, vs just an extractor.
Now, being the tinkerers we are,and this an inexpensive project, let's really kick this up...
Let's start off with a quality SS, any of the old H&Rs, Winchester 37s, or the NEF stuff will suffice. First, on goes a GOOD recoil pad, on a stock that fits us well. Second, since this will be lighter than the Rule of 96 calls for, let's have the forcing cone done to avoid a little kick, and maybe even have the bbl set up for tubes. Two will cover all we need,IC and Mod, and if we want a turkey gun also, a X full is in store.As with any shotgun, patterning is a must.
Now, to overcome the muzzle light swing, we hog out some wood from the area under the pad, and maybe stash some cord, waterproof matches or tiny cigarette lighter, tinder(a candle stub works) and maybe the smallest Mag Lite wrapped up so it doesn't shift during fire.
Or, maybe a miniature bottle of JD Black, depending on what your idea of survival gear is(G).
I've seen concept shotguns like this with the butts skeletonized, the stock screw visible, and the balance moved too far forward, so remember that more is not always good.
Add some sling swivel studs,and a butt cuff for those who like them.
Now you're set, you haven't spent more than $200 at the very highest, and you've got a good packpacking, survival, or burying in a PVC pipe cuz you don't trust the Gummint shotgun. Fairtomiddlin turkey gun too.