A Foundation of Excellence
The shotgun, a firearm steeped in history and renowned for its versatility, has played a vital role in hunting, sport shooting, and personal defense for generations. Among the countless shotguns that have graced the market, the Remington 11-87 semiautomatic shotgun holds a special place. It’s a firearm that built upon the success of its predecessors, offering a blend of reliability, performance, and adaptability that has made it a favorite among shooters of all kinds. This article delves into the heart of the Remington 11-87, exploring its rich history, design features, practical applications, and enduring appeal.
Remington Arms, a name synonymous with American firearms craftsmanship, has a legacy that spans over two centuries. The company’s dedication to innovation and quality has resulted in a string of iconic firearms. The 11-87 semiautomatic shotgun stands as a testament to Remington’s commitment to providing reliable and effective tools for a variety of purposes. The 11-87 didn’t spring from thin air; it evolved from the highly successful Remington Model 1100, a shotgun that revolutionized the industry with its smooth operation and soft recoil.
The Remington 1100, introduced in the 1960s, set a new standard for semiautomatic shotguns. It quickly became known for its smooth cycling and reduced felt recoil, attributes that made it a pleasure to shoot, especially for extended periods. However, the 1100 had its limitations, particularly when it came to handling a wide variety of ammunition. Its gas system was designed primarily for standard loads. This is where the idea for the 11-87 was born.
The Remington 11-87 aimed to build upon the 1100’s strengths while addressing its shortcomings. Remington engineers focused on creating a shotgun that could reliably cycle a wider spectrum of ammunition, from light target loads to heavy magnum shells, without requiring manual adjustments. This was a key objective in the development of the 11-87, and it’s a testament to the foresight of the designers.
Engineering for Versatility: Key Features and Specifications
The Remington 11-87 distinguished itself through several key features and design elements. These elements collectively contribute to the shotgun’s performance, reliability, and overall appeal to a diverse range of shooters.
The heart of the 11-87’s performance lies in its innovative gas-operated semiautomatic action. This system is a refined version of the system found in the 1100, but with a crucial upgrade: a self-regulating gas system. This is a significant improvement over the fixed gas system found in the 1100. The self-regulating system automatically adjusts to the pressure generated by different loads. This ensures smooth and reliable cycling regardless of the ammunition being used. The gas system diverts a portion of the propellant gases to cycle the action, meaning it ejects spent shells and loads a new round from the magazine into the chamber.
The Remington 11-87 typically comes in the standard 12-gauge and 20-gauge configurations, making it suitable for a wide variety of shooting applications. The 12-gauge version is the more common, offering a wider selection of ammunition types and greater stopping power. The 20-gauge model, however, provides a lighter and more maneuverable platform, perfect for shooters seeking less recoil or smaller game hunting. The availability of both gauges enhanced the gun’s versatility and expanded its market appeal.
Barrel length is another crucial element, and the 11-87 offered several options to tailor the shotgun to different needs. The 11-87 often comes with a variety of barrel lengths, ranging from shorter barrels ideal for home defense and close-quarters shooting to longer barrels that provide improved accuracy and a greater effective range for hunting applications. The barrel configuration can greatly influence how the shotgun is used. The shorter barrels are often preferred for maneuverability, while longer barrels offer benefits like enhanced accuracy and a wider effective range.
A critical feature that significantly enhances the shotgun’s utility is the use of interchangeable choke tubes. Choke tubes allow shooters to tailor the shot pattern to the specific target and the distance. The Remington 11-87 usually accommodates a variety of choke tubes, including full, modified, improved cylinder, and skeet chokes. Full choke is typically used for long-range shooting, while improved cylinder is preferred for shorter distances. Interchangeable chokes provide shooters with the ability to adapt their shotgun to various shooting scenarios.
The receiver of the Remington 11-87 is often made from steel or a durable alloy, ensuring longevity and robustness. This gives the firearm a strong base and provides for years of reliable service. The fore-end and stock can be crafted from a variety of materials, including wood or synthetic polymers. Synthetic stocks have gained popularity due to their ruggedness and resistance to weather. The choice of material for the stock and fore-end can influence the shotgun’s weight, balance, and overall feel.
The magazine tube capacity varies depending on the specific model and configuration, but it often accommodates four rounds in addition to the chambered round. Magazine extensions are also available, increasing the overall capacity for those seeking more firepower. For home defense, the ability to carry more shells can be very important.
The sights on the Remington 11-87 usually consist of a simple bead sight on the barrel, offering quick target acquisition. Some models may also incorporate a vent rib or a more elaborate sight system. The sighting system is important in helping a shooter align the shotgun with the target.
Ergonomics play a key role in the shooter’s experience. The 11-87 is known for having comfortable handling. The stock design, grip, and fore-end contribute to the overall comfort and ease of use.
Performance in Action: What to Expect
The Remington 11-87’s performance has earned it a respected reputation. The key aspects are reliability, recoil management, and accuracy.
The self-regulating gas system is key to its reliability. This allows it to handle a diverse range of loads without malfunction. Clean and well-maintained 11-87s are famous for consistent performance.
The gas system also helps to mitigate felt recoil, making the shotgun more comfortable to shoot, especially when firing high-powered loads. This can be a significant advantage for shooters who spend extended periods at the range or hunt frequently. The reduction in recoil allows for faster follow-up shots and reduces shooter fatigue.
The 11-87 offers decent accuracy. The degree of accuracy will also depend on the shooter’s skill, the ammunition used, and the choke tube. When paired with the right choke tube and ammunition, the 11-87 can achieve tight shot patterns.
A Multitude of Applications: From Field to Home
The versatility of the Remington 11-87 makes it suitable for a wide array of applications, from hunting and sport shooting to personal defense.
In the hunting arena, the 11-87 shines. It’s often used for hunting game birds, such as waterfowl and upland birds, and deer. The shotgun’s ability to handle a variety of ammunition and its reliable cycling action make it an excellent choice for various hunting environments.
For those concerned about home defense, the 11-87 offers a potent and reliable solution. Its ease of use and manageable recoil make it a great choice for defending your home. The 12-gauge configuration, in particular, provides a significant amount of stopping power.
The 11-87 can also be used in sporting clays and trap shooting. While the gun’s gas system is good, some will prefer dedicated competition shotguns.
Weighing the Options: Advantages and Disadvantages
Like any firearm, the Remington 11-87 has its advantages and disadvantages. Knowing these strengths and weaknesses can help buyers determine if the 11-87 is the right fit for them.
Advantages
The primary advantage is its reliability. The self-regulating gas system and robust design lead to dependable performance. The versatility to shoot a variety of ammunition types is another strength. The reduction in felt recoil also makes it pleasant to shoot.
Disadvantages
Some users may find it heavier than some of its competitors. The gas system, while reliable, can be more complex than the simple recoil-operated systems found in some other shotguns.
Comparison with Competitors
When compared to other shotguns like the Benelli Nova or the Beretta A300, the 11-87 remains a solid contender. The Benelli Nova is known for its simplicity, while the Beretta A300 offers a similar blend of performance and reliability. The 11-87 distinguishes itself with its reputation and the user’s loyalty.
Keeping it Running: Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is critical for the long life and reliable performance of the Remington 11-87. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and proper storage will keep your 11-87 in top condition.
Regular cleaning is critical. After each shooting session, the shotgun should be disassembled and cleaned. The barrel should be cleaned with a bore brush and solvent. The gas system should be cleaned to ensure optimal function.
Proper lubrication is also essential. Lubricate the moving parts of the action. Over-lubrication can attract dirt and debris, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
If problems develop, consult the owner’s manual. Simple troubleshooting steps can resolve some issues.
For extended storage, the shotgun should be thoroughly cleaned and lightly oiled. Storing the shotgun in a climate-controlled environment will help to prevent rust and corrosion.
Customize and Enhance: Modifications and Accessories
The Remington 11-87 provides opportunities for modifications and accessories.
Popular upgrades include improved sights for faster target acquisition and extended magazine tubes for increased capacity.
Aftermarket accessories like sling swivels make it easier to carry the shotgun. Quality choke tubes can optimize shot patterns for various purposes.
When making modifications, remember safety and ensuring they don’t negatively affect reliability.
The 11-87 in the Modern Marketplace
The Remington 11-87 continues to be available on the market.
The price may depend on its condition. Used models can provide an attractive value.
Alternative shotguns can also be found, as mentioned earlier, and that depends on the user’s needs.
A Lasting Impression: The Remington 11-87’s Enduring Legacy
The Remington 11-87 semiautomatic shotgun remains a significant contributor to the world of firearms. Its combination of reliability, performance, and versatility has made it a favorite among shooters.
The Remington 11-87 stands as a testament to Remington Arms’ dedication to quality and innovation. It continues to be an excellent choice for hunters, sport shooters, and those seeking a reliable platform for personal defense.
If you are considering a semiautomatic shotgun, the Remington 11-87 deserves your attention. Its legacy of performance and durability has made it a classic.
