Description
Picture this: you’re walking a Missouri creek bottom for squirrels, or maybe you’re at the local sporting clays range with a friend who’s just starting out. They’re struggling with the recoil of a 12-gauge, and their swing is a bit slow. You hand them a lighter, softer-shooting shotgun that just feels right. That’s the practical niche the Remington 11-87 Sportsman, 20 Ga, 26″ Barrel, Synthetic fills perfectly. It’s the workhorse autoloader scaled down for comfort and control, offering proven reliability without the premium price tag of a competition model.
So, what is it? The Remington 11-87 Sportsman, 20 Ga, 26″ Barrel, Synthetic is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 20-gauge. It features a 26-inch vent-rib barrel with a fixed Modified choke, a durable synthetic stock and forend, and a 4+1 round capacity. It’s designed as a dependable, value-focused field gun for upland hunting, clay sports, and recreational shooting, with a price point that emphasizes function over flash. At a total length of 46.5 inches, it balances well for a variety of shooters.
Here’s the thing—the 11-87 action is a classic for a reason. The gas system soaks up a significant amount of felt recoil compared to a pump or break-action, which is a major benefit in the lighter-framed 20-gauge. This makes follow-up shots quicker and a long day in the field or at the range much more pleasant. The synthetic furniture isn’t fancy, but it’s tough. It shrugs off rain, scratches, and the general abuse a hunting firearm endures, which is exactly what you want in a tool. The 26-inch barrel is the sweet spot for this gauge: quick enough for flushing birds in thick cover, yet long enough to provide a smooth swing for crossing shots on clays or waterfowl.
Weighing in at approximately 7.5 pounds, it’s light enough to carry all day without being so light that it becomes whippy or hard to control. The 20-gauge chambering is the real key to its value proposition. Ammunition is plentiful and often less expensive than 12-gauge target loads, and the reduced recoil makes it an ideal choice for newer shooters, younger hunters, or anyone with recoil sensitivity. It’s plenty effective for doves, quail, squirrels, and even turkeys with the right load. This shotgun is drop-in ready—you can take it home, clean it, and head to the field. No gunsmithing required to get started.
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (2 3/4″ & 3″ chambers) |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 26″ Vent Rib |
| Choke | Fixed Modified (M) |
| Overall Length | 46.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Stock | Synthetic |
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: The primary advantage is reduced cost and recoil. At $570.57, it sits well below many new semi-autos. The gas-operated action is soft-shooting and reliable with a wide range of loads. The synthetic stock is low-maintenance and durable. The fixed Modified choke is versatile for many hunting and clay scenarios. It’s a simple, no-frills design that works.
Cons: The fixed choke limits your patterning options compared to a model with interchangeable chokes. The synthetic finish is utilitarian, not refined. It’s not the lightest 20-gauge on the market, and some may find the balance a bit front-heavy. That said, for the price, these are expected and reasonable compromises.
Who is this shotgun for? It’s for the budget-conscious Missouri hunter who wants a dependable, soft-shooting autoloader for small game and birds. It’s an excellent first semi-auto for a new shooter or a younger hunter moving up from a .410 or single-shot. It’s also a great “loaner” gun for taking friends or family out without handing them your prized over-under. If your primary need is a rugged, go-anywhere field gun that won’t make you wince at the price or the recoil, this is a strong contender. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for all firearm purchases, and this model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this 11-87 shoot 3-inch magnum shells?
A: Yes. It is chambered for both 2 3/4-inch and 3-inch shells, giving you flexibility for everything from light target loads to heavier hunting loads for turkey or waterfowl (with non-toxic shot).
Q: Is the barrel threaded for RemChoke tubes?
A: No. This Sportsman model comes with a fixed Modified (M) choke. It’s a great all-purpose constriction, but it cannot be changed. If you need interchangeable chokes, you’d need to look at the 11-87 Premier model or have a gunsmith thread the barrel.
Q: What’s the main difference between this and a more expensive 20-gauge like the Beretta A300?
A: You’re primarily paying for refinements. The A300 might have a better finish, a self-compensating gas system for wider ammo tolerance, and likely comes with choke tubes. The 11-87 Sportsman offers core semi-auto reliability and the 20-gauge advantage at a more accessible price point, making it a classic bang-for-buck option.
If you’re looking for a straightforward, reliable 20-gauge autoloader that gets the job done without fuss, the Remington 11-87 Sportsman deserves a close look. Check availability and see if it fits your needs.
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