January 26, 2015
By Shaun Epperson
If there's a space in your gun cabinet for an all-purpose autoloader that's light on weight and recoil while remaining relatively budget-friendly, Remington is hoping its latest offering — the V3 Field Sport — will earn a spot in your collection. But Big Green doesn't intend for its newest shotgun to gather dust in the cabinet if it does earn that spot — it's a workhorse, not a show pony.
The V3 is intended to combine the latest technology and design features in a platform that feels as familiar as its autoloader forefathers.
I recently had a chance to run some shells through the V3 in a variety of applications, from shooting clays with target loads to using 7 1/2s and No. 5 Nitros while hunting pheasant, quail and chukar. After carrying the V3 two days in the field over many walking miles, I can say the new Remington, which weighs in at around 7 pounds, was noticeably lighter than my 11-87 — a full pound lighter, according to Remington.
The V3 points naturally and is ergonomically pleasing out of the box to shooters of varying statures and builds.
While the feel and design of the V3 may be very familiar to anyone with Remington autoloader experience, this new shotgun is neither an updated 11-87 nor is it a Versa Max variant. It's a modern multi-tool for applications suited for up to 3-inch shells.
The V3 employs the latest compact Versa Port gas system, located directly in front of the receiver. This location is reported to reduce recoil and allow for better weight distribution in the gun. For further recoil reduction, a SuperCell recoil pad is standard issue with the gun.
For now, 20-gauge enthusiasts are going to have to look elsewhere, but Remington reported that it is considering offering a 20-gauge model in the future.
Models in black synthetic, camo synthetic and wood stocks are planned, with 26- and 28-inch barrels available.
Remington reported that pricing for the new shotgun should begin at a little under $900. The V3 is slated to hit the market in Summer 2015.
