The Remington 11-87 20 gauge shotgun has earned a solid reputation among shooters for its reliability, versatility, and performance. This detailed review delves into its features, strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for various shooting disciplines. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a novice looking to acquire your first shotgun, understanding the 11-87's nuances is crucial.
Key Features and Specifications
The Remington 11-87 20 gauge distinguishes itself through several key features:
- Gas-Operated System: This system ensures reliable cycling across various ammunition types and conditions, minimizing malfunctions often associated with recoil-operated shotguns. This is particularly beneficial for shooters using lighter target loads or hunting with heavier slugs.
- Self-Regulating Gas System: The 11-87's self-regulating gas system automatically adjusts to different shell loads, further enhancing reliability and reducing the need for manual adjustments.
- Durable Construction: Built with robust materials, the 11-87 is known for its ruggedness and ability to withstand the rigors of regular use in demanding environments.
- Versatility: This shotgun excels in multiple shooting applications. Its adaptability makes it suitable for hunting waterfowl, upland game, trap, skeet, and even sporting clays, depending on the chosen barrel and choke configuration.
- Variety of Barrel Lengths and Chokes: Remington offers the 11-87 20 gauge with various barrel lengths and interchangeable choke tubes, allowing users to tailor the shotgun to their specific needs and preferences.
Strengths of the Remington 11-87 20 Gauge
- Reliability: The gas-operated system and self-regulating gas system contribute significantly to the 11-87's highly reliable performance. Malfunctions are rare, even under challenging conditions.
- Soft Recoil: While recoil is subjective, many users find the 11-87 20 gauge to have relatively manageable recoil, particularly compared to some comparable semi-automatic shotguns.
- Accuracy: With the appropriate choke tube, the 11-87 delivers excellent accuracy for hunting and target shooting.
- Ease of Maintenance: The 11-87 is relatively easy to clean and maintain, contributing to its longevity and dependability.
- Availability of Parts and Accessories: As a well-established model, replacement parts and accessories are readily available.
Weaknesses of the Remington 11-87 20 Gauge
- Weight: Some users find the 11-87 to be on the heavier side compared to some other 20 gauge shotguns. This can be a factor for extended shooting sessions or for hunters who prioritize lightweight firearms.
- Cost: The Remington 11-87 can be more expensive than some comparable shotguns in the market.
- Potential for Over-Gassed Operation (with some loads): While the self-regulating system is generally effective, using certain high-pressure loads can occasionally lead to over-gassed operation.
Who Should Consider the Remington 11-87 20 Gauge?
The Remington 11-87 20 gauge is an excellent choice for:
- Hunters: Its reliability, versatility, and accuracy make it suitable for a wide range of hunting situations.
- Target Shooters: Its accuracy and soft recoil contribute to its suitability for trap, skeet, and sporting clays.
- Users Prioritizing Reliability: The robust gas-operated system and self-regulating gas system ensure dependable performance.
Conclusion:
The Remington 11-87 20 gauge offers a compelling blend of reliability, versatility, and performance. While it has a slightly higher price point and can be heavier than some alternatives, its strengths significantly outweigh its weaknesses for many shooters. Its robust design and proven track record make it a solid investment for those seeking a dependable and versatile shotgun. However, it's crucial to consider individual shooting preferences and needs before making a purchase. Consider factors like weight, intended use, and budget to determine if the Remington 11-87 20 gauge is the right fit for you.
