Grr!

Twice now, I’ve lost the charging handle from my 11-87. The first time seemed completely random, and I figured it was a one-off. It’s an almost-40-year-old gun. No sweat… hit up Numrich for an OEM-style replacement and all was well.

Two weeks ago, at a skeet shoot, that replacement vanished during a round. WTH?? I’ve got another one coming, this time a Choate from Midway. But the underlying question is, “why the heck do these things keep coming out?

Paint your new one fluorescent green, so it will stand out against all the clay pigeon pieces downrange.
And attach an Airtag.

I like the idea of painting it bright!

Not sure about that airtag attachment thing, though...

I would replace these two parts, though MGW shows out of stock on both. Remington should have them. I didn't see them on the Brownells site.

Remington 1100 / 11-87 Operating Handle Detent Spring, 12ga

Remington 1100 / 11-87 Operating Handle Detent Ball, 12ga

Numerich has all 3 parts in stock.
Parts 63, 64, 65

Linkage

Since two charging handles were lost, it's almost certainly the spring (most likely) or the ball detent (less likely but still a possibility on a 40 year old shotgun.)

I notice that the spring being offered by Numrich is an aftermarket part. I'd be inclined to check first with Remington.

There might be corrosion or debris in the spring channel, inhibiting spring movement. Soak that bolt, flush it well.

Para and KMitch: thank you for the research.

I'll place an order this evening.

As for bolt-soaking: what's your recommendation for what to soak it in?

- - - - -

I did try to scavenge a charging handle from a [much newer] 11-87 in The Lovely Girlfriend's safe... I couldn't grip/pull it hard enough to remove it. That one's attached WAY better.

Whatever you have on hand, as long as the bolt is chromed and not nickel plated.

Para:

quote:

I'd be inclined to check first with Remington.

There are no parts Remington has anymore.
Any parts for an 11-87 will come from anybody but Remington.

Of course. That makes as much sense as anything.

They really do suck these days.

quote:

Originally posted by parabellum:
Whatever you have on hand, as long as the bolt is chromed and not nickel plated.

Easy enough. I’ve got a pint bottle or two of Hoppe’s on hand.