A Legacy Forged in Steel and Innovation
Understanding the Core Components
The world of shotguns is a realm of diverse tools, each engineered for a specific task, whether it’s taking down fast-flying waterfowl, breaking clay targets, or protecting a home. Among the many excellent options available, the Remington 11-87 12 Gauge holds a prominent place, a testament to its reliability, adaptability, and legacy within the firearms community. This article dives deep into the features, history, performance, and nuances of this popular shotgun, offering a comprehensive guide for both seasoned shooters and those new to the world of shotguns.
Remington, a name synonymous with American gunmaking, has a long and storied history. The company has continuously pushed the boundaries of firearm design and engineering, creating legendary firearms that have found their way into the hands of hunters, law enforcement, and sport shooters across the globe. The Remington 11-87 12 Gauge is a worthy continuation of this tradition. It builds on the successes of previous Remington models, especially the iconic Model 1100, while incorporating advancements to enhance performance and reduce recoil. The 11-87’s introduction marked a significant step in semi-automatic shotgun design, improving upon the already solid platform offered by its predecessor. It was a statement of refinement, offering a smoother and more reliable shooting experience.
At the heart of the Remington 11-87 12 Gauge lies its gas-operated system. This mechanism is a marvel of engineering, and it’s what sets the 11-87 apart. The gas system captures a portion of the expanding gases generated by the fired shell and uses them to cycle the action. This approach provides a few critical advantages. First, it significantly reduces felt recoil, making the 11-87 more comfortable to shoot, even with heavier loads. Second, it aids in the smooth and reliable extraction and ejection of spent shells, ensuring consistent cycling, shot after shot. Finally, the system contributes to overall reliability, a crucial factor in any shotgun, especially one used for hunting or home defense. Proper cleaning and maintenance of this gas system are essential for maintaining the smooth performance the 11-87 is known for.
The Remington 11-87 12 Gauge is, of course, a 12-gauge shotgun, meaning it is chambered for the most popular shotgun shell size. This versatile platform is capable of handling a wide range of ammunition, offering adaptability for various shooting scenarios. The ability to use both 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells means users can choose the appropriate load for the task, from light target loads to heavy-duty hunting rounds.
The Business End: Barrels and Beyond
The barrel of the Remington 11-87 12 Gauge is a critical component in its overall performance. Barrel length often varies depending on the intended use. The longer barrels, typically 26 or 28 inches, are often preferred for hunting, providing a longer sighting radius and helping to maximize the shot pattern at longer ranges. Shorter barrels may be found on some models, which can make them easier to maneuver in close quarters.
The Remington 11-87 12 Gauge also commonly features a versatile choke system, usually the Rem Choke system. This enables users to change chokes, adjusting the shot pattern to suit the target at varying distances. A tighter choke will concentrate the shot more for longer-range shots, while a more open choke spreads the shot for closer targets. This flexibility makes the 11-87 suitable for a variety of shooting disciplines.
Action, Stock, and Sights: Fine-Tuning the Experience
The semi-automatic action of the Remington 11-87 is a key feature. As mentioned earlier, the gas system powers the cycling of the action, making follow-up shots quick and easy. This semi-automatic functionality is a major advantage when hunting, sport shooting, or for home defense, as it allows for rapid engagement of targets.
The stock and forend of the 11-87 come in various materials, most commonly wood or synthetic. Wood stocks offer a classic aesthetic, while synthetic stocks are often chosen for their durability and resistance to weather and impacts. The choice of stock material is largely a matter of personal preference. The stock’s ergonomics also play a vital role in the shooting experience, with a comfortable fit being essential for proper aiming and recoil management.
Sights also play a critical role. Most 11-87 models are equipped with a bead sight on the barrel, a simple and effective aiming system. Some models feature a vent rib, which can aid in faster target acquisition by providing a clearer sight picture.
Assessing Performance and Reliability
The Gas System’s Advantage
One of the most significant advantages of the Remington 11-87 is its ability to mitigate recoil. The gas system, coupled with a well-designed stock, helps to make the 11-87 comfortable to shoot, even with heavy loads. This reduced recoil is a significant advantage, especially for those who plan to shoot the shotgun for extended periods or who are sensitive to recoil.
Accuracy and Reliability
The accuracy of the 11-87 is generally good, and it’s influenced by the choke system and the shooter’s skill. Proper choke selection can dramatically impact how the shot spreads at a given range. The versatility of the choke system gives the shooter fine-tuned control over the shot pattern.
Reliability is a critical factor, and the Remington 11-87 generally has a positive reputation in this regard. The gas system contributes to reliability, but proper maintenance and cleaning are vital to ensure optimal performance. Regular cleaning of the gas ports and other components is essential for preventing malfunctions.
The cycling of the action is typically very smooth, thanks to the gas-operated system. This smooth cycling allows for fast follow-up shots and contributes to the overall shooting experience.
A Multitude of Uses: From Field to Front Door
Hunting, Sport Shooting, and Home Defense
The Remington 11-87 12 Gauge is an incredibly versatile shotgun. It has become a favorite for hunting, offering excellent performance across a variety of game. Its ability to handle different shell sizes and its reliable cycling action make it ideal for both waterfowl and upland bird hunting.
Sport shooting is another area where the 11-87 excels. Its smooth cycling and manageable recoil make it a good choice for clay target shooting. While perhaps not the ultimate competition gun for advanced shooters, it’s certainly more than capable for recreational shooting and for learning the fundamentals of shotgun sports.
The Remington 11-87 12 Gauge is a solid choice for home defense. While its size might present a challenge in close quarters compared to a shorter-barreled option, it offers substantial stopping power and the ability to fire multiple shots quickly. Its reputation for reliability is a significant benefit in a home defense scenario.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Advantages and Disadvantages
The advantages of the Remington 11-87 are numerous. The smooth cycling, made possible by the gas-operated system, is a major draw. The reduced recoil makes it enjoyable to shoot. Its versatility, stemming from its ability to handle different shell types and its choke system, is a significant benefit. The availability of parts and accessories, thanks to Remington’s established position, is another plus. Finally, ammunition for the 12-gauge is widely available, making it easy to find the right shells for any situation.
There are some drawbacks to consider. There can be potential for malfunctions if the gun isn’t properly maintained, particularly with certain types of shells. The weight of the 11-87 can be a factor for some users. The need for regular cleaning and maintenance is crucial for keeping the gun running smoothly.
Exploring the Various Models
Model Variations
Remington has produced several variations of the 11-87, each with its own unique features and intended purpose. Some models are specifically designed for hunting, while others are geared towards sport shooting or home defense. The “Sportsman” models often offer a more economical option, while the “Premier” models typically feature enhanced finishes and premium materials. Special Purpose models often have specific features suited for tactical applications or hunting, such as extended magazine tubes or specialized camouflage.
Maintaining Your Investment: Care and Keeping
Cleaning and Maintenance Procedures
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the longevity and reliability of the Remington 11-87 12 Gauge. Regular cleaning after use is a must, removing any debris and fouling from the barrel, action, and gas system. The gas ports require particular attention, as they can accumulate carbon buildup that can impact performance. Lubrication is also important, using a quality gun oil to keep the moving parts functioning smoothly. Storing the shotgun in a secure location, away from extreme temperatures and humidity, will help to protect it from damage. By following these simple maintenance procedures, owners can ensure that their 11-87 will provide reliable service for years to come.
Customizing Your 11-87
Accessories and Customization Options
There are various accessories and customization options for the Remington 11-87 12 Gauge. Extended magazine tubes can increase the shotgun’s capacity, while different stock designs can improve ergonomics and fit. Aftermarket chokes offer additional options for fine-tuning the shot pattern. For those seeking a unique aesthetic, options like custom Cerakote finishes or engraving can give the 11-87 a personalized touch.
What Others are Saying: User Perspectives
User Reviews
User reviews of the Remington 11-87 are generally positive. Shooters often praise its reliability, its comfortable recoil, and its versatility. Many hunters value its ability to handle a wide range of ammunition and its effectiveness in the field. Of course, some users have noted potential issues, such as the need for diligent maintenance or occasional malfunctions with certain types of shells.
Compared to the Competition
Similar Shotgun Models
When considering other shotguns, there are a few worthy comparisons. The Remington 870, a pump-action shotgun, is another popular choice known for its ruggedness and affordability. The Benelli M2 offers a different take on the semi-automatic design, with a reputation for reliability and fast cycling. The Winchester SX3 is another gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun offering competitive performance. The choice of which shotgun is the best depends largely on individual needs and preferences.
Concluding Thoughts
Summary of the 11-87’s Strengths
The Remington 11-87 12 Gauge is a testament to its design; it’s a versatile and reliable shotgun that has earned its place in the firearms world. Its gas-operated system, combined with its versatility and performance, makes it a great choice for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. It’s a shotgun that has been trusted by generations of shooters and continues to be a favorite for its dependability. For those seeking a quality 12-gauge shotgun, the Remington 11-87 is worth considering. It’s a workhorse that will likely provide many years of service.
