The Remington 1100, a legendary shotgun known for its reliability and versatility, shines even brighter with a 28-inch barrel. This configuration offers a unique blend of features that cater to specific shooting disciplines. This guide delves into the details of the Remington 1100 12 gauge with a 28-inch barrel, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and ideal applications.
Why Choose a 28-Inch Barrel?
The length of a shotgun barrel significantly impacts its performance. A 28-inch barrel on a Remington 1100 12 gauge offers several advantages:
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Improved Accuracy: The longer barrel provides more time for the expanding gases to propel the shot, resulting in a tighter pattern and increased accuracy at longer ranges. This is particularly beneficial for sporting clays, trap, and skeet shooting where precise shot placement is crucial.
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Reduced Recoil: While counterintuitive, a heavier barrel can actually lessen felt recoil. The added weight of the 28-inch barrel helps to absorb some of the recoil energy, making it more comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
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Increased Velocity: The extra barrel length allows for a slightly higher muzzle velocity, contributing to a flatter trajectory and improved downrange performance. This can translate to more consistent shot placement.
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Balance and Swing: For some shooters, the longer barrel provides a better balance and smoother swing, enhancing their shooting rhythm and overall performance.
However, a longer barrel also has some drawbacks:
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Increased Weight: The extra length adds weight to the shotgun, which can be tiring during long shooting sessions or in hunting situations where maneuverability is important.
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Maneuverability: In tight spaces or dense vegetation, the longer barrel can be cumbersome and less maneuverable.
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Cost: Remington 1100s with 28-inch barrels might command a slightly higher price than those with shorter barrels due to increased material costs and potentially reduced availability.
Ideal Applications for a 28-Inch Barrel Remington 1100
The Remington 1100 12 gauge with a 28-inch barrel excels in various shooting disciplines and hunting scenarios:
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Sporting Clays: The combination of accuracy, balance, and reduced recoil makes this configuration highly suitable for sporting clays. The longer sight radius contributes to improved target acquisition and shot placement.
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Trap and Skeet: Similar to sporting clays, the increased accuracy and reduced recoil are advantageous in trap and skeet shooting, enabling consistent performance.
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Waterfowl Hunting: While shorter barrels are often preferred for waterfowl hunting due to maneuverability, a 28-inch barrel can be advantageous for shooting at longer ranges, particularly over open water.
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Field Hunting: While not the universally preferred length for field hunting, the 28 inch barrel can still perform well with appropriate ammunition choices in many situations.
Choosing Ammunition for your Remington 1100 28" Barrel
The choice of ammunition is crucial for optimizing the performance of your Remington 1100 with a 28-inch barrel. Consider the following:
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Shot Size: The optimal shot size will depend on the target and range. Smaller shot sizes (e.g., #7.5, #8) are suitable for targets at longer ranges, while larger shot sizes (e.g., #4, #00) are preferred for closer targets and larger game.
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Shot Type: Lead shot is generally cost-effective, but steel or other non-toxic shot may be required based on regulations or hunting location.
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Load: The weight of the shot charge will influence recoil and pattern density.
Maintenance and Care of your Remington 1100
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and reliability of your Remington 1100. Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspection are crucial. Always consult the owner's manual for detailed instructions.
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Regular Cleaning: Clean your shotgun after each use, paying close attention to removing any residue from the barrel and action.
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Lubrication: Apply a light coat of gun oil to moving parts to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
Remington 1100 28" Barrel: Conclusion
The Remington 1100 12 gauge with a 28-inch barrel is a versatile and reliable shotgun that caters to specific needs. Its strengths lie in its improved accuracy, reduced recoil, and suitability for various shooting disciplines and hunting scenarios. While the increased weight and reduced maneuverability are potential drawbacks, the enhanced performance benefits often outweigh these considerations for many shooters. Careful consideration of individual shooting style and intended use will help determine if a Remington 1100 with a 28-inch barrel is the right choice. Remember to always prioritize safety and practice responsible gun handling.