The 11-87 will shoot 3" while the 1100 will only shoot 2 3/4" on these models. Depends on if that is a big deal for you or not. I essentially traded my 1100 Special Field for the 11-87 Special Field and have been very pleased with both models. I have no concerns about using the 11-87.
The straight stock also helps with the "English" idea of shooting. That stresses that the left hand moves the gun and actually points it while the right hand simply controls the trigger.
Frankly for me, that is sort of over thinking the whole thing, but the straight stock is extremely quick handling for me when after upland game and just looks classy!
