↬ Let’s compare the Remington 1100 vs 1187 to uncover the similarities and key differences in order to make an informed decision on which shotgun meets your needs.
The Remington 1100 and 1187 shotguns are two of Remington’s most legendary creations, each with its own unique story to tell. Few shotgun models resonate as powerfully with hunters and shooters as these two firearms. And with over 60 years of various production output between them, the ins and outs of these shotguns are extremely well known.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the history behind the Remington 1100 and Remington 1187 shotguns, the various models available, their gas operating systems, choke systems, and which one to choose if you have to pick between the two. Let’s get started.
- Production – 1100 Started in 1963, 1187 Started in 1987 ↓ Jump to Discussion
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Shell Compatibility –1100 = 2 3/4 and 3 in, 1187 = 2 3/4, 3 in, and 3 1/2 in
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Gas System – 1100: Self-Regulated Sleeve, 1187: Gas Compensation System
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Choke System – 1100: Fixed, 1187: Fixed/REM Choke
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Quick Facts
Heritage and Production
Both the Remington 1100 and 1187 were born from the same lineage, inheriting the trusted gas-operated system pioneered by Remington. This system is celebrated for its reliable cycling, reduced recoil, and enabling quick follow-up shots. It’s the cornerstone of their success and a shared legacy.
The Remington Model 1100 made its debut in 1963, garnering widespread acclaim for its semi-automatic operation and adaptability. It swiftly earned a reputation as a versatile firearm suitable for a wide spectrum of shooting pursuits, ranging from hunting to competitive sports shooting. Over the years, the Model 1100 has undergone numerous refinements and upgrades to keep pace with the evolving needs of the shooting community.
In contrast, the Remington Model 11-87, commonly known as the Remington 1187, entered the scene in 1987. Positioned as an enhanced iteration of the earlier Model 1100, it brought improvements in design and materials to the table, but more specifically to the gas operating system. Much like its predecessor, the 11-87 has carved out a niche as a reliable and multifaceted semi-automatic shotgun. Throughout its existence, it has seen various iterations and configurations tailored to cater to diverse shooting applications and user preferences.
Note: This guide is designed to provide a general overview of the most popular versions of these two shotgun models over their 60+ year history. Due to the limited production of various types, some characteristics mentioned may not apply to all 1100s or 1187s.
Remington 1100 Shotguns
The Remington 1100 has seen a wide range of models since it was introduced in 1963, each tailored for specific shooting purposes. Here is a list of some of the notable models:
- Remington 1100 Classic Trap: Designed for trapshooting, this model features a high-gloss walnut stock, a 30-inch barrel, and a fixed full choke.
- Remington 1100 Competition Synthetic: Built for competitive shooting, it comes with a synthetic stock, extended chokes, and an adjustable comb.
- Remington 1100 American Classic: Celebrating American craftsmanship, it features high-grade walnut and an engraved receiver.
- Remington 1100 Sporting Series: Available in various configurations for sporting clays and skeet, these models often feature extended chokes and vent rib barrels.
- Remington 1100 Tac-2: Designed for tactical use, it comes with a pistol grip stock, extended magazine tube, and often a ghost ring sight.
- Remington 1100 Premier: Known for its elegant design and engraving, it’s a top-of-the-line variant.
- Remington 1100 G3: A modernized version with synthetic stocks, improved ergonomics, and various camo patterns for hunting.
- Remington 1100 Competition Master: Designed for competitive shooting with enhanced features like an adjustable comb and extended chokes.
- Remington 1100 Special Field: A lightweight and versatile model for upland game hunting.
- Remington 1100 Youth: Scaled-down version for younger shooters or those with a smaller frame.
- Remington 1100 Premier Sporting Series: These models cater specifically to sporting clay enthusiasts with features like ported barrels and adjustable combs.
Please note that Remington has introduced many limited editions and regional variations over the years, so this list may not be exhaustive. Always check with Remington or authorized dealers for the most up-to-date model offerings.
Remington 1187 Shotguns
The Remington 11-87, like the 1100, has a variety of models designed for different purposes. Here’s a list of some prominent models that have reached the shelves since 1987:
- Remington 11-87 Sportsman: An all-purpose model suitable for hunting and sport shooting. It often comes with interchangeable chokes and synthetic stocks.
- Remington 11-87 Premier: Known for its polished walnut stock and blued receiver, this model offers a touch of elegance along with functionality.
- Remington 11-87 Police: Designed for law enforcement and home defense, it typically features an 18.5-inch barrel and a synthetic stock.
- Remington 11-87 Sportsman Compact: A youth or compact version with a shorter length of pull and sometimes a shorter barrel.
- Remington 11-87 Sportsman Field: This is a popular model for upland bird hunting and clay shooting. It usually has a vent rib barrel and comes with various choke sets.
- Remington 11-87 Sportsman Camo: Featuring camouflage finishes, this model is ideal for waterfowl and turkey hunting.
- Remington 11-87 Special Purpose: Designed for durability and reliability, it’s often chosen for rugged use in the field.
- Remington 11-87 Premier Trap: Tailored for trapshooting, it typically has a longer barrel and fixed chokes.
- Remington 11-87 Sportsman Super Mag: Built to handle 3.5-inch magnum loads, this model is suitable for goose hunting and larger game.
- Remington 11-87 Sportsman ShurShot Turkey: Designed for turkey hunting, it has features like a pistol grip stock and extended choke tubes.
Keep in mind that Remington has introduced various limited editions and regional variations for the 11-87 as well. To get the most up-to-date information on available models, it’s best to consult Remington’s official website or visit authorized dealers.
Gauge, Shell Length, and Barrel Length
The 1100 and 1187 come in various gauges, from the versatile 12-gauge to the nimble 20-gauge, offering something for every shooter. They accommodate various shell lengths, with the 1100 often favored for its suitability with lighter loads. Barrel lengths vary as well, from the shorter tactical barrels to the longer, traditional hunting barrels, catering to diverse shooting needs.
Unlike some 1187 models, the Remington 1100 is not designed to shoot 3 1/2-inch shotgun shells. There was a Magnum version that was temporarily produced but it isn’t very common due to functioning issues. 1100 models typically chamber and function with either 2 3/4-inch or 3-inch shells, depending on the specific model and gauge. If you’re looking for a Remington shotgun that can handle 3 1/2-inch shells, you might want to consider the Remington 11-87 Super Mag or other models designed for larger shell sizes.
Choke Systems
The Remington 1100 shotgun typically uses a fixed choke system, which means that the choke constriction is built into the barrel and cannot be changed or swapped like with interchangeable choke tubes. The specific choke constriction can vary depending on the model and intended use of the shotgun. Some models have a modified choke, improved cylinder choke, or fixed full choke to suit different shooting purposes.
Some models of the Remington 1187 use the Remington “Rem Choke” system. Rem Choke is a type of choke system that allows for interchangeable choke tubes, with the ability to change the choke constriction to suit different shooting situations. This provides versatility and allows shooters to adapt the shotgun for various types of shots, such as hunting or clay shooting. However, not all 1187 models have this feature, as some are fixed choked shotguns like the Remington 1100.
RELATED: REM Choke vs REM Pro Bore Comparison Guide
Remington 1100 vs 1187: Which is Better?
Perhaps the easiest difference to detect between the Remington 1100 and 1187 is the gas operating system. While 1100 fans may disagree, you may believe at first glance that 1187’s are the same—especially if you’re not acquainted with Remington shotguns already.
The Remington 1187’s gas system is more likely to give you a smoother experience across a wider range of shotshell lengths and types. And since Remington has such a wide selection of 1187 models, you can expect to find a shotgun to match just about any need.
Here’s how the gas operating systems work.
- Remington 1100: The Remington 1100 uses a self-regulating gas system. It relies on the pressure generated by the fired shell to cycle the action. This system can be sensitive to the type of ammunition used, as light loads might not generate enough pressure to reliably cycle the action.
The Model 1100 operates by venting gases through a port in the barrel near the forend. These gases drive a steel action sleeve encircling the magazine tube, connecting to the bolt carrier at the rear. This process ejects the spent shell. Simultaneously, a fresh shell from the magazine activates the carrier release, and the action spring in the stock thrusts the bolt forward, loading the new shell into the chamber.
- Remington 1187: The Remington 1187 utilizes a more advanced and versatile gas system. It’s an improved version of the 1100’s gas system. The 1187 operates with a gas compensation system designed to handle a wider range of loads, from light target loads to heavy hunting loads. It’s often considered more reliable with a broader spectrum of ammunition.
Once a shell is fired, high-pressure gases from the ignited gunpowder are channeled through two small under-barrel openings. These gases drive the action bar sleeve towards the buttstock, resulting in the ejection of the spent shell. Following this, a spring propels the bolt forward, introducing a fresh shell from the magazine into the chamber. This gas-operated mechanism not only accomplishes efficient cycling but also diminishes perceived recoil for the shooter. It achieves this by extending the duration over which recoil energy is distributed.
And while it’s true that there are some minor disparities in the parts department, such as the broader extractors on 1187s and late-model 1100s, the late-model 1100s do share the 1187’s forend and barrel retention system. Moreover, the 1100 opts for a carbon steel magazine tube, whereas the 1187 flaunts a sleek stainless steel one.
While both shotguns share many similarities in terms of design, the 1187’s compression gas system offers greater flexibility and reliability when it comes to cycling various types of shells, making it a popular choice for both sporting clays and hunting purposes.
Bottom Line: Choose the 1187 over the 1100
When comparing the Remington 1100 vs 1187 shotguns, there’s several key differences that can help guide you to make a choice between the two. Whether you’re drawn to the classic reliability of the 1100 or the robust versatility of the newer 1187, you’re choosing a piece of firearm history that’s been tested and proven over generations.
The 1187 gas system is an improvement over the old 1100. Instead of a gas driven sleeve, the 1187 cycles with the force of gas driven compression. This leads to less fluctuations over a wide range of shotshell types. The 1187 is also available in Super Magnum versions that can cycle 3 1/2 shells safely.
The 1100 still has a place for trap shooting, and its gas system is adjustable for fine tuning. But overall, the reliability of the 1187 across a wide range of situations and shell types is what makes it the top choice between the two.
Related: Remington Choke Tube Chart – Sizing Guide
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