Why Replace or Upgrade Your Remington 1100 Barrel?
Reasons for Replacement
Over time, even the most well-cared-for firearm will experience wear and tear. For a Remington 1100, the barrel is a critical component, and several issues can necessitate its replacement.
Damage or Wear and Tear: The most obvious reason for barrel replacement is physical damage. This includes rust, which can compromise the structural integrity and accuracy of the barrel; dents caused by impacts; or bulges resulting from obstructions in the barrel, which is a dangerous condition. Regular inspection is vital to identify these issues early.
Choke Damage or Incompatibility: Barrels can be damaged if the choke threads are stripped, or if the choke itself sustains damage, making the barrel unusable or unsafe. Additionally, you might need to replace a barrel if it doesn’t accommodate the chokes you desire. For instance, if you want to switch between different shot patterns for varying ranges, a barrel with interchangeable chokes is essential.
Barrel Length Doesn’t Suit Your Needs: Shotgun barrels come in various lengths. If the original barrel is not suitable for your current purposes, then replacement is needed. A longer barrel is ideal for hunting, while a shorter barrel may be more practical for home defense.
Changing Shooting Style: As you develop as a shooter, your needs may evolve. Perhaps you’re transitioning from field hunting to clay shooting or vice versa. Different disciplines often benefit from specific barrel characteristics, such as length, choke type, and ribbing. A barrel replacement enables you to optimize your Remington 1100 for your current pursuits.
Benefits of Upgrading
Sometimes, you might not need to replace a barrel due to damage, but rather, you might want to upgrade.
Improved Accuracy and Patterning: A new barrel, especially one made with modern manufacturing techniques, can significantly improve accuracy. A well-made barrel will consistently produce tighter shot patterns.
Enhanced Performance for Specific Applications: Upgrading your Remington 1100 barrel allows you to tailor its performance for particular shooting scenarios. For instance, a barrel with a tighter choke like full or extra full can maximize range by concentrating the shot.
Customization to Better Fit Your Shooting Style: Upgrading barrels with different lengths or features like a fiber optic sight can help you fine-tune your shotgun to best fit your shooting style, improving comfort, and potentially, your shooting scores.
Increased Resale Value: While the value of used firearms fluctuates, replacing a damaged barrel with a quality barrel may help to preserve the resale value of your Remington 1100, and in some instances, even increase its overall worth. A properly functioning and well-maintained firearm is always more desirable than one that’s in poor condition.
Types of Remington 1100 Barrels Available
Barrel Lengths
Remington 1100 barrels come in different lengths, each designed for a specific purpose.
Shorter barrels, typically in the range of 18 to 24 inches, are popular for home defense and tactical applications, as they offer enhanced maneuverability. The decreased length makes the shotgun easier to handle in confined spaces.
Mid-length barrels, around 26 to 28 inches, are versatile and suitable for a variety of shooting activities, including hunting and general sport shooting.
Longer barrels, usually 30 inches or more, are favored by trap shooters and for hunting larger waterfowl. The longer sight radius typically provides improved accuracy when aiming.
Choke Types
The choke is a constriction at the muzzle end of the barrel that shapes the shot pattern. Understanding choke types is key to maximizing performance.
Fixed Chokes: These are built into the barrel and cannot be changed. They offer durability but limit versatility, as you are stuck with the one type of shot spread.
Interchangeable Chokes: These are often found on modern Remington 1100 barrels for sale, and allow you to swap chokes to adjust the shot pattern. You can select from a range of options, including:
Full Choke: Tightest pattern, best for long-range shooting.
Modified Choke: Moderate pattern, good for general-purpose shooting.
Improved Cylinder Choke: Wider pattern, suitable for close-range shooting.
Cylinder Choke: Widest pattern, ideal for extremely close ranges.
Gauge
The gauge indicates the bore diameter of the barrel and therefore the ammunition it takes. The Remington 1100 was produced in multiple gauges, including 12, 20, and 28 gauge, and .410 bore. Make sure you purchase a barrel that is specifically made for your gauge of shotgun. A barrel made for 12 gauge will not function properly in a 20 gauge receiver.
Barrel Finishes
The finish of a barrel affects its appearance and its resistance to corrosion and wear.
Blued: A classic and common finish, bluing provides good protection against rust and gives the barrel a traditional look. It requires regular maintenance to prevent surface rust.
Nickel: Nickel plating offers excellent protection against corrosion, but it can be more susceptible to scratches than bluing. The finish provides a bright, metallic appearance.
Stainless Steel: Stainless steel barrels are highly resistant to rust and corrosion, offering long-term durability and minimal maintenance. They tend to have a matte, non-reflective appearance.
Specialty Barrels
Ribbed barrels: These barrels have a raised rib along the top, which can improve sighting. They are sometimes ventilated to dissipate heat.
Lightweight barrels: These barrels are often designed to be lighter than standard barrels.
Barrels with custom engraving: Custom engraving adds a unique look, allowing for personalization.
Where to Find Remington 1100 Barrels for Sale
Online Retailers
The internet offers a vast selection and unparalleled convenience.
Online retailers, such as Brownells, MidwayUSA, and others, typically offer a wide array of barrels, including factory and aftermarket options. They have in-depth descriptions, customer reviews, and easy ordering.
Gun Shows and Gun Shops
Advantages:
You can inspect the barrel in person.
You can potentially negotiate a price.
You can often purchase the barrel on the spot.
Disadvantages:
Selection is limited.
May not be able to find the specific barrel you are looking for.
Used Barrels
Purchasing a used barrel can be a cost-effective option, but careful inspection is critical.
Pros: Can save money, especially if purchasing a barrel in good condition.
Cons: Might be harder to ascertain the barrel’s history and condition. Inspection of the barrel is crucial.
Inspection Tips: Check the bore for pitting, rust, and any signs of damage. Inspect the muzzle and choke threads, ensuring that they are in good condition. Test-fit the barrel to ensure that it fits your shotgun properly.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Remington 1100 Barrel
Gun Compatibility
The most important factor is compatibility. Ensure that the barrel is made for your specific Remington 1100 model. Differences may exist between gauge and the gas system of the gun.
Always carefully check barrel markings, and the barrel’s fit within the receiver to avoid issues.
Choke Compatibility
If you choose a barrel with interchangeable chokes, confirm that the choke threads are compatible with the chokes you plan to use.
If you choose a barrel with a fixed choke, make sure it suits the intended use.
Intended Use
The intended use of the shotgun should guide your decision.
Hunting: The best choice depends on the game you are hunting. You might consider a 26-28″ barrel with a modified or full choke for hunting upland birds or waterfowl.
Sporting Clays: A longer barrel, around 28-30″, with interchangeable chokes allows you to adapt to varying target presentations.
Home Defense: A shorter barrel, 18-20″, with an improved cylinder choke or a cylinder choke will provide the best maneuverability in close quarters.
Budget
Establish a budget before you begin shopping. Remington 1100 barrels for sale are available at a wide range of prices.
Decide how much you are willing to spend and stick to it. Compare prices from different retailers and consider the long-term value of a high-quality barrel.
Condition and Inspection
No matter where you choose to purchase your barrel, it is critical to closely examine the barrel before purchasing.
Bore Inspection: Inspect the bore for any signs of pitting, rust, or damage. Use a bore light if possible.
Exterior Inspection: Look for dents, scratches, and any signs of unusual wear.
Choke Threads: If you have interchangeable chokes, inspect the threads carefully to be sure they are not damaged.
Installation and Maintenance
While barrel replacement is generally straightforward, understanding these basics is helpful.
Brief Overview of Installation
If you are not comfortable performing the installation yourself, consider having a qualified gunsmith do the work.
Ensure the gun is unloaded before any work begins.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
A gunsmith can ensure a proper fit and that the gun is ready for use.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper cleaning is important to the long-term performance of the barrel.
Clean the bore after each use.
Remove any powder residue or debris.
Lubricate the barrel.
Storage
When not in use, store your shotgun in a safe place.
Store the barrel and the receiver of the shotgun in a dry location.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect Remington 1100 barrel for sale is a crucial step in maintaining the performance and enjoyment of your shotgun. By understanding the reasons for replacement or upgrades, knowing the different types of barrels available, researching the options, and carefully considering the factors discussed in this guide, you can make an informed decision. With the right barrel, your Remington 1100 will continue to provide years of reliable service.
Remember to take your time, do your research, and prioritize safety. Whether you’re hunting, target shooting, or safeguarding your home, the right barrel is key to success.
FAQs
Finding the right Remington 1100 barrel for sale raises a few common questions.
“How much does a Remington 1100 barrel cost?” The price of a Remington 1100 barrel for sale varies widely, depending on the type, finish, and whether it’s new or used. You can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to several hundred dollars.
“Where can I find a Remington 1100 barrel near me?” Check local gun shops and gun shows for immediate purchase, but be sure to inspect the barrel carefully. Also, you can use the internet to search for local stores that carry barrels, but it’s always a good idea to call first to check inventory.
“Can I switch between different gauge barrels on my Remington 1100?” No, generally, Remington 1100 barrels are not interchangeable between different gauges. You must purchase a barrel specifically designed for the gauge of your receiver.
