Remington 11-87 premiere

[frigate88]

Getting ready to buy this Remington 11-87 premiere. It's been sitting in the guys safe for about 6 years. Just wondering if they're a reliable shotgun and if there anything in particular I should look out for. Thanks.

[oregunner]

The 3 1/2" models had some issues. I don't think they made the Premier in 3 1/2". Most came with some nice wood. If the price is right, I say go for it. Mark

[markj]

Older 11-87s were/are a bit heavy. A light contour barrel will lighten it up and make a better swing on birds. IMHO they sure do work, never had a hiccup yet.

[BigJimP]

The 11-87 is a decent gun ...and like any gas operated gun / they require some maintenance to ensure their reliability.

Its old technology - but the 11-87 and the 1100 are very strong guns.

There is no reason to pass on it ...but in my opinion, condition is everything on a used gun ...is it clean, has it been abused...???

[hardworker]

I have one and it runs fine. I rarely clean it too. The biggest problem is that it shines like a road flare when the sun hits it. It's also plenty heavy.

[jmr40]

They are decent guns. There are much better guns available today however. If the price is right and you don't want or need newer technology you could do a lot worse.

[Fleabag]

Have a gunsmith look it over. If you want to inspect it yourself, take it down, including the trigger housing. Inspect the housing and receiver for signs of wear. Check the O rings and the stainless tube. Powder tends to cake in on it if the shotgun is not regularly cleaned. Check the wood and blueing for scratches and dings. As for price, do an Internet search for the shotgun in similar conditions. Be strict but just with your appreciation of the gun condition. A ding is a ding and a scratch is a scratch and rust is rust and like new is like new. Much simpler to take the shotgun to a gunsmith or your nearest gun store and have someone with the appropriate knowledge take a look at it. Otherwise you risk not knowing what your buying. Good luck.

BTW, I've had mine for over 15 years as my main hunting shotgun and I have no need or excuse to replace it.

[Fishbed77]

I've owned my 11-87 Premiere since 1994, and it has been stupidly reliable for that whole time. It is the version that takes up to 3" shells. I honestly can't remember it ever jamming, and I've put thousands upon thosands of shells through it. It has a 28" barrel, but it has never struck me as being particularly heavy.

To be honest, I didn't even know that semi-auto shotguns were supposed to be so unreliable until I began frequenting these forums. :)

That said, I do always keep it very clean and well-lubed. I've never replaced the o-ring or gas rings on it, though.