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I was given an 1100 12ga with a 2 3/4" chamber (X barrel code = 1973). Can I safely use 2 3/4" magnum turkey shells (1.5 oz. shot) or will it batter the gun?

Should be fine

Don't think you'll be shooting enough of those shells to do any harm.

Thanks for the replies. I've only had pumps up until now.

I bet you can shoot them all day for a month and not hurt anything.

Drive it like ya stole it Dave

I would suggest inspecting the rubber o-ring on the gas system, it's likely a good investment of $2 if it's not been replaced recently.

Brand new o-ring installed.

Dave,

Place a light coat of Break Free on the mag tube along with the action bars and the forearm support which is the small stamped piece of metal connected to the action bars which will make cycling more reliable along with prevented the metal clip barrel support from breaking. Also grease the barrel extention that fits into the receiver which prevents wear on the barrel extention at the same time cushioning the metal on metal contact with the top of the receiver.

Contrary to popular belief the magazine tubes on the Rem 100's should not be run dry. A very light coating of oil reduces wear and the carbon build up mag tube is sO much easier to just wipe clean.

Doc

I wouldn't unless you change the barrel to a magnum also.. Otherwise you WILL be risking serious damage and even potential injury.. Not worth it, IMVHO...

Really? A 2 3/4" chambered 1100 is a danger when fired with 2 3/4" magnum shells? Is there a special barrel for firing 2 3/4" magnum shells in a standard 1100? I'm surprised to hear that.

The only shells you are likely to have issues with are the Winchester Featherlights. These are under 7/8 oz and only 950 fps so tend to not generate enough gas to operate the gun. They work well for training as they are so light of recoil.

As for 1 1/2 oz loads in this gun, your shoulder will give out before the gun. I would recommend replacing the recoil spring as they tend to shorten with use. I replace the recoil springs on my autoloaders around the 5000 round mark as experience has shown me that the spring compacts about 3/4" in that amount of time. This is with a mix of light target loads and the occasional heavy waterfowl or upland load. A weak recoil spring allows the bolt to hit the back of the receiver and eventually causes irrepairable damage to the gun. It is an easy job and quite inexpensive- around $10.

Lubricating the magazine tube is also a good idea. I use one of the CLP products as it tends to keep the carbon particles in suspension better than plain oil which allows the gun to run smoother longer. If the gun begins to slow down, add a bit of CLP to the tube and bolt guides. This will liquify the carbon deposits allowing the gun to function normally. It also makes cleaning easier if done right away.

https://support.remington.com/AUTOLOADING_MODEL_1100%E2%84%A2/What_loads_can_I_use_with_my_Model_1100_Sporting_12%3F


The OP has an older ('73) M1100 - and those were, even then, a bit more 'load specific'..

Redneck,
I noticed the link specifies "Sporting 12" and states the Sporting 12 is designed as a target gun but works well as an upland hunting gun. Is that a speciality version with lighter springs, ect? Different than a run of the mill standard Model 1100?

Nah - the innards are the same, the difference is in the stock configuration/barrel rib etc... But the mechanics are the same..

In '79 Rem made a bunch of changes to the M1100 - using a 2 3/4 magnum in a standard chamber will give excess gas pressure to the bolt/receiver and will, over time, cause damage.. If the owner swaps the barrel over to a magnum barrel there's one less gas port to contend with and will alleviate the pressure..

I've had a couple 1100 (and the M58 Sportsman it replaced) in with damaged (read: sprung) receivers from guys using the magnum shells in a non-magnum barrel..

Yesterday, in fact, a M1100 came in with a 'new' barrel and the bolt would close but NOT open.. I noted this was a pre '79 model using a post '79 barrel. The bolt body and locking bolt had to be 'fitted' to the extension in order for it to work properly..

It's just something to note and remember when/if switching barrels on older models..