Choosing between the Remington 1100 and 1187 can feel like navigating a minefield of opinions and specs. Both are legendary semi-automatic shotguns, renowned for their reliability and performance, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. This in-depth comparison will delve into the key differences, helping you decide which shotgun best suits your shooting style and budget.
Design and Operation: The Heart of the Matter
The core difference lies in their operating systems. The Remington 1100 utilizes a long-recoil system, while the 1187 employs a gas-operated system. Let's break down what this means:
Remington 1100 (Long-Recoil):
- Simpler Mechanism: Fewer parts mean less to go wrong, contributing to the 1100's reputation for rugged reliability. This simplicity often translates to easier maintenance.
- Softer Recoil: The long-recoil system absorbs a significant portion of the recoil, resulting in a gentler shooting experience, particularly appreciated by new shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
- Potential for Maintenance: While generally reliable, the 1100's long-recoil system can be more sensitive to dirt and debris, potentially leading to malfunctions if not properly cleaned and maintained.
Remington 1187 (Gas-Operated):
- Faster Cycling: The gas system generally cycles faster, leading to quicker follow-up shots, a significant advantage in fast-paced shooting situations like sporting clays or trap.
- Reliability with Various Loads: Gas-operated shotguns are often more tolerant of different ammunition types, including lighter target loads and heavier hunting loads.
- More Complex Mechanism: The added complexity of the gas system introduces more parts that can potentially malfunction, although modern 1187s are highly reliable. This also adds to the overall cleaning and maintenance.
A Quick Summary Table:
| Feature | Remington 1100 | Remington 1187 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Long-Recoil | Gas-Operated |
| Recoil | Softer | Firmer |
| Cycling Speed | Slower | Faster |
| Maintenance | Simpler, but more sensitive to debris | More complex, but often more tolerant to conditions |
| Ammunition Tolerance | Less tolerant | More tolerant |
Ergonomics and Handling: Feel and Fit
Both shotguns boast comfortable stocks and generally ergonomic designs, but subtle differences exist. The 1100 often feels slightly lighter and nimbler in the hands, while the 1187 can feel more substantial. Ultimately, the best way to determine which feels better is to handle both guns personally.
Target Audience: Finding the Right Fit
The choice between the 1100 and 1187 often boils down to individual needs and shooting disciplines:
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Remington 1100: Ideal for beginners, hunters preferring a softer-shooting experience, and those prioritizing simplicity and ease of maintenance. Its reliability in diverse conditions makes it a great all-around shotgun.
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Remington 1187: Better suited for experienced shooters, competitive shooters (trap, skeet, sporting clays), and those needing faster cycling and greater tolerance for various ammunition types.
Conclusion: The Verdict
There's no single "better" shotgun; the superior choice depends entirely on individual preferences and intended use. Consider your experience level, shooting discipline, and budget before making your decision. Spending time handling both shotguns will ultimately give you the best sense of which one feels right in your hands and meets your needs. Researching specific models within each line is also crucial as variations in barrel length, stock configuration, and other features further differentiate these classic shotguns.
