The Remington 1100, a legendary semi-automatic shotgun, has earned its place in history through decades of reliable performance. Many shooters enhance their 1100's capabilities by upgrading to aftermarket barrels, and Carlson's is a name frequently mentioned in these conversations. This guide will delve into the world of Carlson's Remington 1100 barrels, examining their features, benefits, and considerations for potential buyers.
Understanding Carlson's Reputation
Carlson's Choke Tubes & Barrels has built a solid reputation among shotgun enthusiasts for producing high-quality, affordable aftermarket barrels and choke tubes. Their focus is on providing shooters with options to customize their shotguns for various hunting and sporting applications. They achieve this by offering a wide selection of barrel configurations tailored to specific needs. This reputation is built on consistent performance and a commitment to manufacturing durable, reliable products.
Carlson's Remington 1100 Barrel Options: A Closer Look
Carlson's offers a range of Remington 1100 barrels catering to diverse shooting disciplines. While the exact models available may change over time, you can generally expect to find options such as:
Different Gauges:
- 12 Gauge: This is the most common gauge and typically offers the widest range of barrel configurations.
- 20 Gauge: A lighter option favored by many for upland hunting and sporting clays. Carlson's often provides barrels for this popular gauge as well.
Variable Barrel Lengths:
Barrel length significantly impacts the shotgun's handling and performance characteristics. Carlson's typically offers barrels in a variety of lengths, including:
- 26-inch barrels: Popular for versatility, suitable for hunting and sporting clays.
- 28-inch barrels: Often preferred for trap and skeet shooting, offering improved sight radius.
- Shorter lengths: May be offered for specific applications, such as hunting in dense cover.
Choke Options:
The choke significantly impacts shot pattern density. Carlson's barrels usually come with interchangeable choke tubes, allowing shooters to tailor their patterns to various situations. Common choke constrictions include:
- Improved Cylinder (IC): Provides a wide, open pattern, ideal for close-range shots.
- Modified (M): A moderate constriction suitable for a balance of range and pattern density.
- Full (F): Provides a tight pattern for long-range shots.
- Extra Full (XF): Offers the tightest constriction, ideal for long-range waterfowl hunting.
Note that the specific choke options will depend on the chosen barrel model.
Barrel Types:
Carlson's may offer different types of barrels, potentially including:
- Standard hunting barrels: These barrels are designed for general hunting use.
- Specialty barrels: These might be optimized for specific disciplines like sporting clays or trap shooting.
Advantages of Choosing a Carlson's Barrel
- Affordability: Carlson's barrels generally represent a more budget-friendly option compared to some higher-end manufacturers.
- Versatility: The range of gauges, lengths, and choke options allows for customization to meet individual needs.
- Quality: While more affordable, Carlson's maintain a commitment to quality construction and materials, ensuring reliable performance.
- Interchangeability: The ability to swap choke tubes allows for adaptability to different shooting situations and target ranges.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing
- Intended Use: Determine the primary purpose of the barrel (hunting, sporting clays, etc.) before making a purchase.
- Gauge and Length: Select a gauge and barrel length suitable for your needs and shooting style.
- Choke Options: Consider the range and pattern density required for your typical shooting scenarios.
- Compatibility: Always verify that the barrel is compatible with your specific Remington 1100 model.
Conclusion
Carlson's Remington 1100 barrels offer a compelling option for shooters seeking to enhance their shotgun's capabilities. Their combination of affordability, versatility, and quality makes them a popular choice among both novice and experienced shooters. By carefully considering the factors outlined above, you can choose the right Carlson's barrel to optimize your shooting experience. Remember to always consult the manufacturer's specifications and handle firearms safely.
