The Remington 11-87 20 gauge shotgun has long held a respected place among shotgun enthusiasts. Known for its reliability and versatility, it's a popular choice for everything from sporting clays and upland hunting to waterfowl hunting and even home defense. But what makes this shotgun stand out? This comprehensive review delves into the features, performance, and overall value of the Remington 11-87 in 20 gauge, helping you determine if it's the right shotgun for your needs.
Remington 11-87 20 Gauge: Key Features and Specifications
The Remington 11-87's success stems from its innovative gas-operated design. This system offers several key advantages over other designs:
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Reliable Cycling: The gas-operated system ensures consistent cycling, even with lighter target loads or heavier waterfowl loads. This is crucial for maintaining a fast follow-up shot and overall shooting consistency.
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Reduced Recoil: The gas operation system helps mitigate recoil, making it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions. This is particularly beneficial for newer shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
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Versatility: The 11-87's ability to handle a wide range of ammunition makes it incredibly versatile. It performs reliably with everything from light target loads to magnum waterfowl loads.
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Durable Construction: Remington utilizes high-quality materials in the construction of the 11-87, resulting in a robust and durable shotgun built to withstand the rigors of frequent use.
Specifications:
- Gauge: 20 Gauge
- Action: Gas-operated, semi-automatic
- Capacity: Variable depending on magazine tube length and applicable state laws (typically 3+1 or 4+1)
- Barrel Length: Available in various lengths to suit different disciplines.
- Stock: Typically synthetic, but wood stocks are also available on certain models.
- Weight: Relatively lightweight for a semi-automatic shotgun, making it easy to handle.
Performance and Handling
The Remington 11-87 20 gauge shines in its performance. The gas-operated action ensures smooth and reliable cycling across a wide variety of ammunition types. The relatively lightweight design contributes to excellent handling, making it easy to swing and acquire targets quickly. Whether you're shooting clays or hunting birds, the 11-87 provides a comfortable and consistent shooting experience.
Advantages:
- Reliability: Renowned for its dependable cycling.
- Versatility: Handles a wide range of ammunition loads.
- Smooth Recoil: Gas operation significantly reduces felt recoil.
- Maneuverability: Lightweight and well-balanced.
Disadvantages:
- Maintenance: Like any gas-operated shotgun, regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for optimal performance. Failure to maintain the gas system can lead to malfunctions.
- Cost: The Remington 11-87, while a reliable shotgun, falls into a mid-range to higher price point compared to some other semi-automatic shotguns.
Remington 11-87 20 Gauge: Ideal Applications
This versatile shotgun is well-suited for a variety of applications:
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Sporting Clays: Its smooth recoil and reliable cycling make it an excellent choice for competitive or recreational clay shooting.
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Upland Hunting: Its lightweight design and manageable recoil are ideal for long days in the field hunting birds like quail, pheasant, or grouse.
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Waterfowl Hunting: The 11-87 handles heavier waterfowl loads effectively, providing the power needed to take down ducks and geese.
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Home Defense: While not the primary design intent, the 11-87's reliability and stopping power make it a viable option for home defense. (Always check local laws and regulations regarding firearm ownership and usage).
Conclusion: Is the Remington 11-87 20 Gauge Right for You?
The Remington 11-87 20 gauge is a robust and reliable semi-automatic shotgun offering exceptional versatility. Its gas-operated action ensures smooth cycling and reduced recoil, making it a comfortable and effective shotgun for a wide range of shooting disciplines. While regular maintenance is necessary, the 11-87's performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. However, prospective buyers should consider their budget and specific needs to determine if the Remington 11-87 20 gauge is the optimal choice for them.
