Remington 1100 Still Outguns Modern Competition—Here's Why
Remington's 1100 and 11-87 semiauto shotguns stand as the company's best gas-operated designs, earning respect among hunters, sport shooters, and law enforcement that hasn't faded since their introduction. These shotguns set the standard for reliable, soft-shooting semiautos and continue performing today—often outlasting shooters who buy them used. The 1100 in particular became the baseline for what a quality gas gun should do.
Key Details
The 1100 and 11-87 represent Remington's peak achievement in semiauto shotgun engineering. The 1100 dominated clay and upland shooting for decades. The 11-87 expanded the platform with magnum capability and refined controls. Both guns used proven gas-operation systems that handle 2.75-inch and 3-inch loads (11-87 only for 3-inch) with minimal maintenance compared to competitors. These shotguns became the choice for three-gun competitors, duck hunters, and patrol officers who needed reliability in harsh conditions. Used examples routinely sell in the $300–$600 range, making them accessible entry points for shooters building a shotgun collection.
Why It Matters for Gun Owners
If you're building a shotgun battery or stepping into semiauto shotguns, the 1100 and 11-87 deserve serious consideration. These guns handle everything from target work to hunting without the price tag of new premium semiautos. The 1100 was engineered when Remington still prioritized durability over cost-cutting—parts are available, gunsmith support remains strong, and aftermarket upgrades exist. For clay shooters, the soft recoil impulse from the gas system means more rounds downrange with less fatigue. Hunters get a gas gun that cycles reliably in cold weather and mud. The platform's age actually works in your favor: decades of field data, published reviews, and shooter feedback mean you know exactly what you're buying—no surprises.
DownRange Analysis
The 1100 and 11-87 prove that older engineering sometimes beats modern complexity. New semiauto shotguns chase features and ergonomics, but reliability and shooting feel matter more. These Remingtons earned their reputation by doing one thing perfectly: cycling smoothly while eating any load you feed them. In today's market, where new shotguns demand premium prices and untested designs, a proven 1100 offers better real-world value. Gun owners should treat these guns as investments, not disposable tools. If you find one in decent condition, shoot it hard before writing it off—it'll likely outlast whatever you're comparing it against.
