Introduction
The world of shotguns holds a unique allure, a blend of heritage and capability that continues to captivate enthusiasts. Among the pantheon of legendary shotguns, two names consistently rise to the surface: the Remington 1100 and the Remington 1187. These semi-automatic shotguns have become synonymous with reliability, versatility, and a certain American ruggedness. For those seeking a dependable firearm for hunting, clay shooting, or home defense, the choice between these two models is a common one. This in-depth comparison aims to guide you through the key distinctions, helping you make an informed decision when considering which shotgun best suits your needs. We’ll delve into their history, analyze their features, explore their applications, and ultimately, provide insights to help you determine which of these Remington shotguns deserves a place in your collection. The goal is to offer a comprehensive perspective on Remington 1100 vs 1187, empowering you to make the right choice for your specific shooting requirements.
A Look Back: History and Enduring Legacy
The Remington 1100, introduced in the early nineteen sixties, quickly revolutionized the semi-automatic shotgun market. It was a breakthrough design, a response to the need for a smoother, more reliable, and more comfortable shotgun. Its gas-operated system, a significant advancement at the time, dramatically reduced felt recoil, making it a joy to shoot. The 1100’s sleek lines and classic walnut stocks became instantly recognizable, solidifying its place as an American icon. It offered exceptional reliability, proving itself in the field and on the range for decades. The Remington 1100’s enduring appeal stems from its balanced handling and comfortable ergonomics. This design was engineered to elevate the shooting experience, and it has rightfully remained a favorite among shotgun enthusiasts.
The Remington 1187 represents a subsequent evolution. While building upon the success of the 1100, Remington aimed for greater versatility and performance. This model emerged to address the increasingly diverse array of ammunition available. The introduction of the self-adjusting gas system was a key differentiator. This innovation allowed the 1187 to cycle a wider range of loads, from light target shells to heavy magnum loads, without requiring manual adjustments. This made it a truly adaptable shotgun, ideal for shooters who might switch between different types of ammunition. The refinement of the 1187 broadened the capabilities of the platform.
Key Characteristics: An In-Depth Examination
Gas System Mechanics
The gas system is at the very heart of the 1100’s and 1187’s operation, responsible for cycling the action and chambering the next round. The 1100 utilizes a fixed gas system, which functions effectively with a range of loads. The gasses are captured from the barrel, routed through a port, and then used to propel the operating piston.
The 1187, on the other hand, boasts a self-adjusting gas system. This innovative design automatically regulates the amount of gas needed to operate the action, depending on the power of the ammunition being used. This allows the 1187 to handle a greater variety of loads, ranging from low-recoil target shells to heavier hunting loads. This adaptability is a key advantage for the 1187, making it suitable for a wider array of shooting activities.
Chamber and Barrel Specifications
The chamber dimensions and barrel configurations are fundamental to a shotgun’s performance and ammunition compatibility. The 1100 was available in several chamber sizes, including a standard inch-and-three-quarters chamber and a magnum inch-and-three-quarters chamber. Barrel options were equally diverse, with various lengths and choke configurations to cater to different needs, ranging from field hunting to target sports.
The 1187 continued the tradition of offering various chamber and barrel choices. Most notably, it inherited the option for a inch-and-three-quarters chamber and sometimes included a magnum inch-and-three-quarters chamber for optimal versatility. The 1187’s barrels also came in a range of lengths and choke styles. These options, like those of the 1100, allowed shooters to tailor their firearm to their specific application, be it hunting different game or competing in various clay shooting disciplines.
Build Quality and Material Selection
The materials and construction methods used in these shotguns significantly influence their longevity, durability, and overall feel. The 1100 typically featured a steel receiver, known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear. The barrels were constructed from high-quality steel, designed to withstand the pressures of repeated firing. Stock and fore-end materials often consisted of walnut or various synthetic materials depending on the specific variant, with steel components contributing to a well-balanced weight distribution.
The 1187 generally followed a similar construction philosophy, maintaining the use of high-grade steel for its receiver and barrel. The primary aim was to deliver the same level of robust dependability as the 1100. The stock and fore-end configurations included walnut, but synthetic options were also frequently offered. These synthetic components often enhanced the shotgun’s weather resistance and durability, making it an excellent choice for a range of conditions.
Ergonomics and Handling Characteristics
A shotgun’s ergonomics—the design that affects how it feels in your hands—play a crucial role in shooting comfort, accuracy, and overall enjoyment. The 1100, with its sleek and balanced design, generally offered a comfortable shooting experience. Many shooters find the 1100 to have excellent balance and a natural pointability, allowing for quick target acquisition.
The 1187 retained the basic layout of the 1100, but it often featured slight modifications in the stock and fore-end design. The weight distribution of the 1187 may vary slightly due to the self-adjusting gas system and construction materials, making it a little heavier. This difference, however, is often minimal, and both shotguns are designed to be easy to handle and shoot.
Shooting Performance: Expectations and Results
How a shotgun performs on the range or in the field is the ultimate metric of its effectiveness. The 1100, when used with the appropriate load, is known for its smooth operation and comfortable recoil. The fixed gas system contributes to a reliable cycling of the action, and it is well-regarded for its accurate shot patterns. The 1100’s performance benefits from its balanced handling and overall design.
The 1187’s self-adjusting gas system is a defining feature. This technology allows the 1187 to perform admirably with a wider range of ammunition, significantly reducing the perceived recoil. It’s generally considered extremely reliable, easily adapting to various shot shell lengths and shot types. This versatility, combined with the shotgun’s ergonomic features, contributes to a favorable shooting experience.
The Advantages and Drawbacks
Advantages of the Remington 1100
The 1100 boasts a legacy of proven reliability. Its classic design and smooth operation have made it a favorite among shooters for generations. This shotgun is often praised for its reduced felt recoil, which allows for a more pleasant shooting experience, and also makes follow-up shots faster and more accurate. The 1100 has a reputation for its balanced feel.
Disadvantages of the Remington 1100
The fixed gas system may require careful selection of ammunition, and the 1100 can be sensitive to specific loads. Some shooters may find that cleaning and maintenance require a bit more attention than other designs, though the 1100 is still regarded as relatively easy to maintain. The 1100 might not be as versatile as the 1187 when it comes to handling a diverse range of ammunition types and shell lengths.
Advantages of the Remington 1187
The self-adjusting gas system of the 1187 is undoubtedly a strong point, allowing it to reliably cycle a wider spectrum of ammunition. The 1187 offers excellent versatility, easily accommodating a range of loads, from target loads to heavy magnum shells. The 1187 also benefits from the same well-regarded ergonomics and handling that contribute to its popularity.
Disadvantages of the Remington 1187
The 1187’s self-adjusting gas system can introduce a minor degree of complexity, potentially making field maintenance a bit more involved. Some shooters have suggested that the 1187 might be a tad heavier than the 1100, which could make a difference during extended shooting or carrying.
Putting Them to Work: Applications and Real-World Uses
Hunting Purposes
Both the 1100 and 1187 have served hunters well for decades. The 1100, with its smooth operation and comfortable recoil, is a great option for hunting upland game birds. The 1187, due to its ability to handle a diverse selection of loads, is a great choice for waterfowl hunting and situations where different shot types are required.
Target Shooting Applications
The 1100 and 1187 also show their capability in target shooting sports. The 1100 is a great option for trap and skeet, particularly due to its comfortable shooting characteristics and manageable recoil. The 1187’s versatility makes it a suitable option for a wide array of target shooting disciplines.
Home Defense Considerations
When considering a shotgun for home defense, both the 1100 and 1187 can be viable options. The 1187’s ability to handle different ammunition types makes it a versatile choice. The 1100, however, with its dependable operation, has also been a popular choice for home defense.
Price, Availability, and Maintenance
The Remington 1100 and 1187 are widely available. You can typically find them at most gun stores, both new and used. Online marketplaces are also excellent sources. Prices vary depending on condition, model, and configuration. New Remington 1187 shotguns can be more expensive than Remington 1100 shotguns. However, used models of both shotguns can be found at more affordable prices.
The Remington 1100 and 1187 are relatively easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and lubrication are recommended to ensure the proper function of the gun. Disassembly for cleaning is fairly straightforward.
Choosing the Right Shotgun: Making Your Decision
Ultimately, the choice between the Remington 1100 vs 1187 depends on your specific needs and preferences. The 1100 remains a superb choice for those seeking a classic, reliable, and smooth-shooting shotgun that is generally used for target sports and hunting.
If you frequently utilize a range of ammunition, including magnum loads, the 1187 will provide you with greater versatility. It is also an excellent choice for those who are new to shotguns, as its self-adjusting gas system simplifies the selection of loads. Consider your shooting goals and the conditions in which you’ll use the gun.
Final Thoughts
Both the Remington 1100 and 1187 stand as testaments to Remington’s legacy of firearm excellence. These semi-automatic shotguns offer reliability, versatility, and value. When making your decision between the Remington 1100 vs 1187, consider your needs and shooting style. This comprehensive comparison has provided insights into their features, advantages, and disadvantages. This will empower you to make an informed choice. Whether you select the smooth and classic 1100 or the versatile 1187, you’ll be acquiring a firearm that delivers outstanding performance for years to come. Now the question is yours: which of these two classic shotguns will you choose to add to your collection?
