[otis332]

I am looking for a semi auto. I just started to look at the 11-87's. I have read good things and bad things about them. I want one chambered for 3 1/2". I have read that they do not cycle some of the 3 1/2" shells very well. What I mean is some shells are slightly longer than others so the 11-87 doesnt like them. I also read they dont cycle 2 3/4" shells.

I want a good reliable, long lasting gun. Can you Remington guys help me with this?

 

[deadapair]

I've never heard of the 11-87 Super Magnum (the 3 1/2" version) not ejecting al 3 1/2" shells. I know Browning Golds have had this problem, though.

The 11-87 Super Magnum WILL cycle some 2 3/4" loads. It will cycle field loads (1 1/8 oz and heavier) but it will not reliably cycle 1 1/8 oz target loads (which have less powder than field loads) and it will NOT cycle 1 oz and lighter loads.

The question is, why do you want a 3 1/2" gun? Such a gun is only necessary if you intend to shoot large geese using steel shot. Even then, a 3" shell loaded with heavy, non-toxic shot (like Hevi Shot, tungsten, and bismuth) will kill any goose stone cold dead.

I think you will be more statisfied with a 3" 11-87, as it will work a lot better for the gunning that you will do about 99% of the time.

 

[otis332]

Actually I think I am starting to agree with you on the 3" loads. At one time I thought I needed the big 3 1/2" inchers but the more I read, not so sure thats what I need.

Thanks for the advice!!!

 

[duxdog1]

Otis, I traded my 3 1/2" 870 SPS for an 11-87 Sportsman yesterday. I goose hunt in North Dakota every year & just had to have a 3 1/2" 12ga. Never once shot a 3 1/2" shell through it. I'm not a great shot by any means, but 3" works just fine. I Guess I just got caught up in the hoopla.........

P.S. 11-87 12ga or 20ga Sportsman in Mossy Oak break up can be had at Walmart for $498

 

[otis332]

Thanks for the info. I am starting to look at those 11-87's now. Based on price they sound like a good gun.

 

[Bug Doc]

Guess I'll add my two cents. I also heard the 3-1/2" Siren's Song 3 years ago when I bought my 1187. I've shot exactly 20 rounds of 3-1/2" through it, and none of those were necessary. If I had it to do over again I'd buy the 3".

On the positive side my Super Mag has been stellar. No jams with 3-1/2" ammo, and it will cycle everything down to 1-1/8 oz 1300 fps heavy target loads. I shoot mostly 2-3/4" 1-1/4oz 1400 fps duck loads through it, and it hasn't missed a beat in even the worst conditions (wish I could say the same for my shooting :wink: ).