Remington 11-87 shotguns are popular choices for hunting, sporting clays, and even home defense. But like any firearm, parts wear out or get damaged. Replacing the stock and forend on your Remington 11-87 can improve its ergonomics, aesthetics, and even its overall performance. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, covering everything from selecting replacement parts to completing the installation.
Choosing Your Replacement Stock and Forend
The first step is choosing the right replacement stock and forend for your Remington 11-87. Several factors influence this decision:
Stock Type:
- Standard: The original Remington stock design. Comfortable for many, but might not fit everyone perfectly.
- Tactical/Combatable: Features a pistol grip and often a shorter length of pull, providing a more aggressive shooting stance, ideal for tactical applications.
- Adjustable: Allows for adjustments to length of pull and comb height, crucial for optimal fit and reducing recoil. These offer the greatest degree of customization but often come at a higher price.
- Youth/Junior: Shorter length of pull, suitable for younger or smaller shooters.
Material:
- Wood: Traditional and often aesthetically pleasing, but can be more susceptible to damage from moisture and impacts. Different wood types (walnut, beech, etc.) offer varied grain patterns, durability, and cost.
- Synthetic: Durable, weather-resistant, and generally less expensive than wood. Various colors and textures are available.
Forend Type:
Forend choices are generally less extensive than stock options. You'll primarily choose based on material (wood or synthetic) and matching the style to your chosen stock. Ensure the forend is compatible with your specific Remington 11-87 model (e.g., 11-87 Premier, 11-87 Sportsman).
Tools and Materials Required:
Before beginning, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- New Stock and Forend: Ensure they are compatible with your specific 11-87 model.
- Screwdriver: The appropriate type will depend on the screws used to attach your original stock and forend.
- Gunsmithing Punch (optional but recommended): Helps to prevent damage to screws during removal.
- Cleaning Supplies: For cleaning the receiver after removing the old stock and forend.
- Gun Oil: To lubricate the receiver during reassembly.
- Protective eyewear: Always wear safety glasses when working with firearms.
Step-by-Step Replacement Guide:
1. Safety First:
- Unloading the firearm: Completely unload your Remington 11-87. Visually and physically inspect to ensure the firearm is clear of ammunition.
- Safe storage: Store the firearm in a secure location away from children and pets before and after the replacement procedure.
2. Removing the Old Stock:
- Locate the stock screws: These are usually located under a butt plate or near the receiver.
- Remove the screws: Carefully remove the screws using the appropriate screwdriver, if needed use a gunsmithing punch.
- Remove the old stock: Gently slide the old stock off the receiver.
3. Removing the Old Forend:
- Locate the forend screws: These are typically located at the bottom of the forend.
- Remove the screws: Gently remove the screws using the appropriate screwdriver.
- Remove the old forend: The forend should now slide off.
4. Installing the New Stock:
- Align the new stock: Ensure the stock is correctly aligned with the receiver.
- Insert the screws: Insert and tighten the stock screws securely, avoid over-tightening.
5. Installing the New Forend:
- Align the new forend: Ensure the forend is aligned with the receiver and magazine tube.
- Insert the screws: Insert and tighten the forend screws securely, but don't overtighten.
6. Final Inspection:
- Double-check everything: Examine the installation to ensure the stock and forend are securely attached and properly aligned.
- Test fitting: Make sure the firearm functions correctly and there is no binding or interference.
7. Cleaning and Lubrication:
Clean any debris from the receiver and reapply gun oil as needed.
Troubleshooting:
- Difficulty removing or installing screws: Use penetrating oil to loosen stubborn screws. If problems persist, seek the help of a qualified gunsmith.
- Parts don't fit: Ensure you have purchased the correct replacement parts for your specific 11-87 model.
- Malfunction after installation: Double-check all screws are tightened and the parts are properly aligned. If problems persist, seek professional help.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general instructions. Always consult your firearm's owner's manual and seek professional help if you are uncomfortable performing this task. Improper installation can lead to firearm malfunctions and potential injury.