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Remington 1100: A Comprehensive Look at an American Classic Shotgun

The Remington 1100 is more than just a shotgun; it’s a piece of American firearms history. Introduced in 1963, the Remington 1100 quickly became a favorite among hunters and sport shooters alike, and its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its design and reliability. This article delves into the history, features, variations, and legacy of the Remington 1100, offering a comprehensive overview for both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to the world of shotguns.

The History of the Remington 1100

Before the Remington 1100, the company’s flagship semi-automatic shotgun was the Model 58 and Model 878. While functional, these models were complex and expensive to manufacture. Remington sought to create a more streamlined and cost-effective design, leading to the development of the Remington 1100. Designed by Wayne Leek, Robert Kelley, and other Remington engineers, the Remington 1100 was intended to be a smoother shooting, more reliable, and easier-to-produce alternative. Its gas-operated system was a major departure from previous designs and proved to be a resounding success.

The Remington 1100 was an immediate hit upon its release. Its soft recoil, due to the gas-operated system, made it a comfortable shotgun to shoot, even for extended periods. This was a significant selling point, especially for clay target shooters and hunters who might fire many rounds in a single day. The shotgun’s reliability also contributed to its popularity. It quickly earned a reputation for being a dependable workhorse that could withstand heavy use.

Over the years, the Remington 1100 has seen numerous variations and improvements, but the core design has remained remarkably consistent. This speaks to the soundness of the original engineering and the enduring appeal of the platform.

Key Features and Design

The Remington 1100’s success is largely attributable to its innovative design and well-executed features. The gas-operated system is the heart of the shotgun, and it is responsible for its smooth recoil and reliable cycling. Here are some of the key features:

Gas-Operated System: This system utilizes gas bled from the barrel after firing to cycle the action, reducing felt recoil and improving shooting comfort.
Versatile Gauge Options: The Remington 1100 has been produced in various gauges, including 12 gauge, 20 gauge, 16 gauge, and .410 bore, catering to a wide range of shooters and applications.
Interchangeable Barrels: Many Remington 1100 models feature interchangeable barrels, allowing users to adapt the shotgun to different shooting disciplines, such as hunting waterfowl, upland birds, or shooting skeet.
Durable Construction: The Remington 1100 is built to last, with a robust steel receiver and high-quality components.
Smooth Trigger: The trigger pull on the Remington 1100 is generally regarded as being smooth and consistent, contributing to improved accuracy.

Variations and Models

Throughout its production run, the Remington 1100 has been offered in a wide variety of models, each tailored to specific shooting applications. Some of the most popular variations include:

Remington 1100 Field: The standard model, designed for general hunting purposes.
Remington 1100 Skeet: Optimized for skeet shooting, with features like a high-grade stock and specialized choke.
Remington 1100 Trap: Designed for trap shooting, with a higher comb for proper eye alignment and a longer barrel for improved accuracy.
Remington 1100 Sporting: A versatile model suitable for a variety of clay target sports, such as sporting clays and five-stand.
Remington 1100 Tactical: A modern variant adapted for law enforcement and home defense, often featuring a shorter barrel, pistol grip stock, and accessory rails.

The Remington 1100 in Hunting

The Remington 1100 has been a popular choice among hunters for decades. Its reliability, smooth shooting, and versatility make it well-suited for a wide range of game. Whether you’re pursuing waterfowl in a marsh, upland birds in a field, or deer in the woods, the Remington 1100 can be configured to meet your needs. The availability of different gauges and barrel lengths allows hunters to choose the ideal setup for their specific hunting style and quarry.

The Remington 1100 in Sport Shooting

The Remington 1100 has also enjoyed considerable success in the world of competitive shooting. Its soft recoil and consistent performance make it a popular choice for skeet, trap, and sporting clays. Many competitive shooters appreciate the Remington 1100’s ability to handle high volumes of rounds without experiencing excessive fatigue. The various specialized models, such as the Skeet, Trap, and Sporting versions, offer features specifically designed to enhance performance in these disciplines.

Maintaining Your Remington 1100

Like any firearm, the Remington 1100 requires regular maintenance to ensure reliable operation. Proper cleaning and lubrication are essential for preventing malfunctions and extending the life of the shotgun. Here are some basic maintenance tips:

Clean the Barrel Regularly: After each shooting session, clean the barrel with a bore brush and solvent to remove powder residue and fouling.
Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a light coat of oil to the bolt, action bars, and other moving parts to ensure smooth cycling.
Inspect the Gas System: Periodically inspect the gas ports and piston for carbon buildup and clean them as needed.
Check the Recoil Spring: The recoil spring is a critical component of the gas system, and it should be replaced periodically to maintain proper function.
Store Properly: When not in use, store your Remington 1100 in a dry, safe place.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While the Remington 1100 is generally a reliable shotgun, it can occasionally experience issues. Here are some common problems and potential solutions:

Failure to Eject: This can be caused by a dirty gas system, a weak recoil spring, or a damaged extractor. Clean the gas system, replace the recoil spring, or replace the extractor as needed.
Failure to Feed: This can be caused by a dirty magazine tube, a weak magazine spring, or damaged feed lips. Clean the magazine tube, replace the magazine spring, or replace the magazine as needed.
Light Primer Strikes: This can be caused by a dirty firing pin channel, a weak firing pin spring, or a worn firing pin. Clean the firing pin channel, replace the firing pin spring, or replace the firing pin as needed.

The Legacy of the Remington 1100

The Remington 1100 has left an indelible mark on the world of firearms. Its innovative design, reliable performance, and widespread popularity have made it one of the most iconic shotguns of all time. Even though Remington has faced financial difficulties in recent years, the Remington 1100 remains a sought-after shotgun on the used market, and its legacy continues to inspire new generations of shooters and hunters. The Remington 1100 is a testament to American ingenuity and a true classic in the world of firearms. Its impact on shotgun design and its enduring appeal are undeniable. From the field to the range, the Remington 1100 has proven itself to be a versatile and reliable companion, and its story is far from over. [See also: Remington 870 Review] The Remington 1100, a true American classic, continues to be valued by shooters today.

The Remington 1100 is more than just a firearm; it’s a symbol of American craftsmanship and innovation. Its impact on the shooting world is undeniable, and its legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a competitive shooter, or simply an enthusiast of firearms history, the Remington 1100 is a shotgun worth knowing and appreciating. The enduring popularity of the Remington 1100 speaks volumes about its quality and design. It’s a shotgun that has stood the test of time, and it remains a favorite among shooters around the world.