Description
You remember your first shotgun? The one that felt like a part of you, that swung on target without a thought, and that you didn’t have to baby in the field or the blind. That’s the feeling the Remington 11-87 Sportsman Field 20 Ga, 3″ Chamber, 26″ Barrel, Black, Walnut Stock, 4Rd aims to recapture—but without the premium price tag of a collector’s piece. It’s a workhorse designed for real hunting days, built on a proven platform that prioritizes function and reliability over flash.
The Remington 11-87 Sportsman Field 20 Ga is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered for versatile 3-inch shells. It features a 26-inch vent-rib barrel, a classic American walnut stock, and a 4-round capacity. It’s built for reliability in the field, offering smooth operation and reduced recoil for upland game, waterfowl, and clays, all at a practical price point.
Let’s talk about what you’re really getting for your money. The heart of the 11-87 Sportsman is its gas-operated action. Here’s the thing—this system soaks up a significant amount of felt recoil compared to a pump or inertia gun. That means you can shoot more comfortably during long days in the dove field or while patterning loads, and faster follow-up shots come naturally. The gas system also helps keep the action cycling reliably with a wide range of 20-gauge loads, from light target loads to heavier 3-inch magnums, often with no adjustment needed. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of reliability that hunters appreciate when the weather turns or the birds are flying.
The 26-inch barrel is a sweet spot for the 20-gauge. It provides a smooth, consistent swing for wing shooting without feeling muzzle-light or overly long in thick cover. The vent rib aids in quick target acquisition, and the overall package balances beautifully with the classic walnut stock. Speaking of the stock, it’s a solid, no-frills American walnut that looks good and will develop character with honest use. This isn’t a safe queen; it’s a tool meant to be carried through CRP fields and timber. At a total length of 46.5 inches and a weight around 7.5 pounds, it’s manageable for shooters of all sizes.
Compatibility is straightforward. The 11-87 uses the same Rem Choke tube system (Modified, Improved Cylinder, and Full tubes are typically included) as many other Remington shotguns, so if you already have tubes for an 870 or 1100, they’ll work here. Aftermarket support is strong for parts and accessories, from recoil pads to extended magazine tubes. The design is mature, which means it’s drop-in ready for a huge ecosystem of proven components if you ever want to customize.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 26″ Vent Rib |
| Overall Length | 46.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Stock | American Walnut |
| Choke System | Rem Choke (Tubes Included) |
Pros: The gas operation significantly reduces felt recoil, making it a soft shooter. Proven, simple design translates to field reliability. The 26″ barrel and walnut stock offer classic handling and aesthetics. Strong aftermarket support for parts and chokes. Priced at $640.04, it sits in a value sweet spot between budget pumps and high-end autos.
Cons: It’s not the lightest 20-gauge on the market. The finish is utilitarian and can show wear. As with all semi-autos, it requires more thorough cleaning than a pump action to maintain reliability.
So who is this shotgun for? It’s perfect for the hunter who wants the smooth, fast performance of a semi-auto without breaking the bank. It’s an ideal first semi-auto for a new hunter or a versatile “do-everything” gun for the upland hunter who might chase pheasant, grouse, and dove in the same season. It’s also a great option for a younger or smaller-framed shooter stepping up from a .410 or 28-gauge, thanks to the manageable 20-gauge recoil. If your priority is a dependable, no-nonsense field gun that works straight out of the box, this Remington fits the bill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun cycle light 2 3/4″ target loads reliably?
A: Yes, the gas-operated system is designed to handle a wide range of loads, from light 7/8 oz or 1 oz target loads up to 3″ magnums. Its reliability with light loads is one of the key benefits over some inertia-driven systems.
Q: Is the walnut stock finished or oiled?
A: The Sportsman Field model typically features a satin-finished walnut stock. It’s a durable, low-glare finish that’s suitable for field use and is easier to maintain than a pure oil finish for most hunters.
Q: What is the magazine capacity?
A: The magazine tube holds 4 rounds of 2 3/4″ shells. With one in the chamber, total capacity is 5 rounds. For waterfowl hunting, a plug must be installed to limit capacity to 3 shells total (2 in the magazine + 1 in chamber) to comply with federal regulations. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
This Remington 11-87 Sportsman represents a solid value in a proven semi-auto platform. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See the full details on our site to get the process started.
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