A Legacy of Excellence
Remington Arms Company, a name synonymous with American firearms, holds a rich history stretching back over two centuries. The company’s dedication to crafting quality firearms has earned them a reputation that spans generations of hunters, law enforcement, and shooting sports enthusiasts. From iconic rifles to innovative shotguns, Remington has consistently provided reliable and effective tools for a variety of purposes. This heritage is a cornerstone of the Remington 1187 Slug Gun’s appeal.
The Genesis of the 1187
The Remington 1187 evolved from the highly successful Remington 1100, a semi-automatic shotgun that revolutionized the market with its gas-operated system, known for its smoothness and reliability. The Remington 1100, with its soft recoil and dependable functionality, quickly gained a strong following. Building on this solid foundation, Remington introduced the 1187, a refinement that incorporated improvements designed to handle a wider range of ammunition.
The key innovation of the 1187 was its ability to cycle both 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells without requiring adjustments. This adaptability made it even more versatile than its predecessor. The Remington 1187 Slug Gun variation, in particular, focused on enhancing the gun’s suitability for accurate slug shooting, making it a perfect choice for deer hunting in shotgun-only zones. The design advancements positioned the 1187 as a premium choice in the market.
Decoding the Design: Features and Specifications
Understanding the features of the Remington 1187 Slug Gun is essential for appreciating its capabilities. From the action to the sights, every component plays a role in its performance.
Action and Operation
The heart of the 1187 is its semi-automatic gas-operated action. This system utilizes gas tapped from the barrel to cycle the action, ejecting spent shells and loading fresh rounds. This design not only reduces recoil but also allows for rapid follow-up shots, crucial for hunting situations. The gas system is engineered to be self-regulating, minimizing the need for manual adjustments based on the specific loads. The reliability of this system is a significant factor in the Remington 1187 Slug Gun’s popularity.
Barrel and Sights
Barrel length plays a critical role in slug gun performance. The Remington 1187 Slug Gun is typically offered with a dedicated barrel that provides the accuracy needed for shooting slugs effectively. These barrels often come with rifling specifically designed to stabilize slugs, maximizing their accuracy at longer ranges. This rifling gives the slug a spin, which is crucial for maintaining stability in flight.
The sights are also important. Most Remington 1187 Slug Guns feature either rifle sights (adjustable open sights) or are drilled and tapped for scope mounts. Rifle sights offer a fast sight picture in close-quarters situations, while scope mounts allow for the mounting of scopes for greater accuracy at longer ranges. The choice depends on the intended use and the shooter’s preferences. Cantilever mounts are a popular choice, as they allow the scope to be attached and removed without affecting the zero.
Chambering and Capacity
The 1187 Slug Gun is typically chambered for 12 gauge shells, offering the power needed for hunting larger game. The gun’s receiver is constructed to handle the pressures of 3-inch magnum loads, increasing the versatility of the firearm. The magazine capacity of the Remington 1187 Slug Gun typically holds a number of rounds.
Stock and Fore-end
The stock and fore-end materials are another consideration. The 1187 is available with both wood and synthetic stocks. Synthetic stocks are typically more durable and resistant to weather, while wood stocks offer a classic aesthetic. The fore-end provides a comfortable grip for the non-dominant hand, contributing to control and accuracy.
The Advantages that Matter
The Remington 1187 Slug Gun boasts a number of advantages that make it a highly desirable firearm for various applications.
Accuracy
One of the most significant strengths is its inherent accuracy. The combination of a rifled barrel (in most dedicated slug gun models) and a well-designed action allows the 1187 to deliver impressive accuracy at ranges appropriate for slug shooting. The quality of the rifling is key to stabilizing the slug in flight. This accuracy is crucial for ethical hunting and effective home defense.
Reliability
Reliability is a cornerstone of the 1187’s reputation. The gas-operated system is engineered to be reliable, even in adverse conditions. The gun is designed to cycle consistently, which is essential in the field or in a self-defense situation. Properly maintained, the 1187 will deliver years of dependable service.
Recoil Mitigation
Recoil is a factor that every shooter must consider. The gas system on the 1187 effectively mitigates recoil, making the gun more comfortable to shoot, especially over extended periods. This reduced recoil allows for faster follow-up shots and reduces shooter fatigue.
User-Friendliness and Aftermarket Support
User-friendliness is another key advantage. The Remington 1187 Slug Gun is relatively easy to operate, making it accessible to shooters of all experience levels. Field stripping for cleaning and maintenance is also straightforward.
The availability of aftermarket support is also a plus. A wide range of accessories, including scopes, mounts, and replacement parts, can be found easily. This level of support allows shooters to customize the 1187 to suit their specific needs.
Putting the 1187 to the Test: Applications and Uses
The Remington 1187 Slug Gun is a versatile firearm with applications that extend beyond the range.
Hunting
Hunting, specifically for deer, is perhaps the most common application. In areas where rifles are restricted, the 1187 provides a viable option for taking down big game. The accuracy and power of the gun, combined with the wide range of available slugs, makes it suitable for deer hunting at distances that can be shot ethically.
While primarily designed for deer hunting, the Remington 1187 Slug Gun can also be used for hunting other game animals. Hunters might choose to use the 1187 for other game species in certain circumstances.
Home Defense
The 1187, with its power, reliability, and ease of operation, is potentially a good option for home defense. The use of slugs can provide a higher degree of stopping power, though this must be carefully considered alongside the limitations of slug guns in close quarters and the over-penetration risk.
Considering the Trade-offs
Like any firearm, the Remington 1187 Slug Gun has potential drawbacks that need careful consideration.
Accuracy Limitations
While the 1187 is accurate, the practical effective range is typically limited compared to rifles, particularly when firing slugs. The maximum effective range is dependent on the specific slug type, the barrel rifling, and the skill of the shooter. Shooters should always be certain to use their discretion and prioritize ethical shot placement.
Cost
Cost is a factor. The Remington 1187 Slug Gun, although not considered a top-tier expensive firearm, may have a slightly higher price tag compared to other options. This cost includes the gun, any optics or mounts, and ammunition.
Ammunition Selection
Choosing the right ammunition is crucial for maximizing performance. The shooter should select high-quality slugs that are compatible with their gun and have the necessary performance characteristics. This includes considering the slug weight, design, and intended use.
Maintenance
The Remington 1187 Slug Gun, like any firearm, requires regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure reliable operation. Proper cleaning and lubrication will extend the life of the gun and maintain its accuracy.
Conclusion
The Remington 1187 Slug Gun stands as a testament to Remington’s design philosophy and engineering excellence. Its combination of power, accuracy, and reliability makes it an ideal choice for hunters and those seeking a versatile, powerful firearm. From the dependable gas system to the available sight options, the 1187 offers a balanced and effective platform for a variety of shooting needs. With an understanding of its features, advantages, and limitations, the Remington 1187 Slug Gun remains a compelling choice for shooters looking for a capable, semi-automatic shotgun. If you’re seeking a dependable and effective slug gun for deer hunting or home defense, the Remington 1187 Slug Gun is certainly worth considering.
