I am the decendant of a model 11 as well. I like to take it to my club for at least 1 pheasant hunt a year in honor of my Grandfather.

Mine is only rated for 2 3/4 and I'm prety sure all were made B4 3" shells ever came around.(so I'm quessing yours is too.)

Mine dose not like light loads. I reload now and can custom taylor to it's likings. Prior to that I found that a High Brass shell or Heavy Field load worked fine. More than likely any load you buy with 4's 5's or 6's will work fine. 3-4 yrs ago I was buying Federal Heavy Field #5s and #6s at Wal Mart for $6.99 a box if I recall. Stay away from the 7's, 7 1/2 and 8's (usually dove or target load classified).

Most of the old timers will say you want a #5 load for the majority of small game anyway.

I also use a light teflon spray as my cleaning agent then again after as my lube. Tri Flow is what I like as it is cheaper than Rem OIL and I believe almost identical according to the ingrediants, smell and feel. I also use it like it's going out of style. I don't duck or goose hunt with the 11 but it cycles my SX2 fine up here on Lake Erie late goose season hunts(down to around 20 degrees or so never been out with a semi auto when its single digits or teens).

I'd be happy to answer any other ?s you may have apout it as well.