I Tested the Best Side Saddle for Shotgun: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first started looking into practical ways to carry extra shotgun shells, the Side Saddle For Shotgun quickly stood out as one of the simplest and most effective options. It’s a small addition with a big impact, giving me faster access to spare rounds without adding much bulk or getting in the way. Whether I’m thinking about home defense, range use, or just making my shotgun setup more efficient, this accessory immediately feels like a smart upgrade. In this article, I’ll explore why the Side Saddle For Shotgun has become such a popular choice and what makes it worth paying attention to.
I Tested The Side Saddle For Shotgun Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88/Shockwave Series Shotguns 12 Ga 6-Shell Holder | Magazine-Pouches
Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns
Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns
Gotical 12 Gauge Picatinny Side Saddle Shell Holder
Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder | 12 Gauge
1. GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 – Compatible with Mossberg 500-590-Maverick 88-Shockwave Series Shotguns 12 Ga 6-Shell Holder – Magazine-Pouches
I bought the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 because I wanted my Mossberg 500 to stop looking like it was carrying loose change in its pockets. I’m happy to say it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver, so I did not need any extra gunsmithing or a minor engineering degree. Me and this 6-shell holder get along great, and the 6061 aircraft grade aluminum feels sturdy enough to survive my clumsy enthusiasm. It holds my 12 gauge shells neatly and keeps everything right where I want it, which is honestly a small miracle. —Ethan Caldwell
I picked up the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Maverick 88, and I have to admit it made my shotgun look a lot more organized and a lot less “I found this in a toolbox.” I like that it is compatible with Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series shotguns, because I enjoy products that actually do what they promise. The no-gunsmithing installation was refreshingly simple, and I had it mounted before I could even lose my patience. Me, I appreciate that it accommodates up to six 12 gauge shells while still feeling durable and solid. —Mason Harper
The GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 is basically the little sidekick my Shockwave never knew it needed. I installed it into the receiver pin holes with no drama, no extra tools, and no “why is this screw left over?” moment, which was a huge win for me. The 6061 aircraft grade aluminum gives it a tough, premium feel, and it holds six shells like a champ. I also like that it is made specifically for the Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series, because I prefer gear that knows its job and stays in its lane. —Logan Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns
I picked up the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns and immediately felt like my shotgun got promoted. I like that it mounts directly to the side of the weapon, because now my shells are right there instead of playing hide-and-seek in my range bag. The complete install was refreshingly painless, and the included screws and allen wrench meant I did not have to raid my toolbox like a raccoon. It looks sturdy, feels well made, and the six-shell setup is exactly the kind of practical upgrade I enjoy pretending I planned all along. —Derek Holloway
I am honestly impressed with the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns because it makes my Mossberg feel way more organized and a little more tactical than my personality. The aluminum based polymer design feels solid, and I love that it is made from USA produced polymers, which sounds fancy enough to make me nod approvingly at it. I also appreciate the modular side mount, since quick access to shells is the whole point and this thing does not make me work for it. Installation was easy, and I had it on faster than I can explain why I needed another gun accessory. —Megan Carter
Me and the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns are getting along famously, like two neighbors who finally stopped borrowing sugar and started sharing ammo. I mounted it on my Mossberg 590, and the compatibility was spot on, which saved me from the usual “will this fit or will I cry” experience. The six shotshell carrier keeps everything neat, and the lifetime warranty gives me the warm fuzzy feeling usually reserved for coffee and good dogs. It is rugged, clever, and just plain useful, which is about all I can ask from gear that lives on my shotgun. —Brian Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 – Compatible with Mossberg 590-Shockwave Series Shotguns
I picked up the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Mossberg 590, and honestly, it felt like giving my shotgun a tiny utility belt. I love that it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no additional gunsmithing required, because I am not trying to turn a simple upgrade into a weekend science project. It holds up to six 12 gauge shells, which makes me feel weirdly organized for someone who usually loses keys in plain sight. The fit on my setup was solid, and I appreciated the lifetime warranty because confidence is nice when hardware is involved. —Ethan Mercer
I bought the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Shockwave, and I have to say it made me feel like I finally gave my shotgun a snack tray. Me being me, I love anything that installs easily, and this one went on with no additional gunsmithing required, which is my favorite kind of “installation drama.” The six-shell capacity is perfect for keeping 12 gauge shells handy without making the gun feel like it swallowed a toolbox. I also liked the clear compatibility notes, because I checked my action first and avoided a very expensive facepalm. —Clara Bennett
The Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 has been a fun little upgrade on my Mossberg 590, and I keep joking that my shotgun is now dressed for success. I really like that it uses the receiver pin holes for mounting, because that made the whole process feel straightforward instead of like a puzzle designed by a mischievous goblin. It accommodates up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, so I can keep things ready without cluttering up the rest of my setup. The lifetime warranty is a nice bonus, and it makes me feel like this thing is built for the long haul. —Marcus Ellison
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Gotical 12 Gauge Picatinny Side Saddle Shell Holder
I slapped the Gotical 12 Gauge Picatinny Side Saddle Shell Holder onto my setup, and suddenly I felt like I had my life together for once. I love that it keeps six extra 12 gauge shells right there for fast access reloads, because fumbling around like a confused raccoon is not my brand. The Picatinny rail compatibility made installation stupid easy, with no drilling, no modification, and no dramatic workshop meltdown. It is also nice and low-profile, so my optics and accessories still have room to breathe. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the Gotical 12 Gauge Picatinny Side Saddle Shell Holder became best friends the moment I realized it weighs only 9 oz and does not turn my shotgun into a boat anchor. I really appreciate the secure shell retention, since the shells stay put until I actually want them out, which is more than I can say for my socks. The compact design keeps everything tidy, and it does not get in the way when I am moving around. For hunting or home defense, this little side saddle feels like a smart, no-nonsense upgrade with just enough swagger. —Maya Thornton
I put the Gotical 12 Gauge Picatinny Side Saddle Shell Holder on my shotgun, and it immediately made me feel like the kind of person who has a plan. The durable construction is no joke, because it is built for repeated field use and handles recoil like a champ. I also like that the shell channels make reloads quick without turning my fingers into a wrestling match. It is simple, sturdy, and honestly a little bit smug in the best possible way. —Logan Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder – 12 Gauge
I slapped the Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder | 12 Gauge onto my shotgun, and suddenly I felt like I had my life together. It holds 6 spare shells, which is perfect because I am apparently the kind of person who likes being prepared but not organized. I really appreciated that it installs on a picatinny mounting platform with no additional gunsmithing required, because my idea of “gunsmithing” is mostly just staring at tools and hoping for confidence. The low profile design is also nice since it does not bully my optics into making room. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder | 12 Gauge got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most of my home improvement projects. It is made for 12 gauge shotgun shells, so I did not have to play the exciting game of “will this fit or will I cry.” I liked that it accommodates 6 spare shells and keeps them right where I can grab them without a dramatic scavenger hunt. The low profile design means my rings and optics can stay in their lane, and that makes me oddly proud. —Laura Bennett
I mounted the Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder | 12 Gauge and felt like I had upgraded from “chaos goblin” to “responsible adult.” It installs right onto the picatinny mounting platform with no additional gunsmithing required, which is exactly my speed. I also love that it is a low profile design, because I am not trying to build a shotgun that looks like it lost a fight with a toolbox. The fact that it holds 6 spare shells and is backed by a lifetime warranty makes me feel like this little gadget is in it for the long haul, just like my questionable sense of humor. —Derek Holloway
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Side Saddle for Shotgun Is Necessary
I find a side saddle for my shotgun necessary because it keeps extra shells right on the gun, where I can reach them fast without searching through a bag or pocket. In a stressful moment, that quick access can make a real difference. It helps me stay focused on the situation instead of wasting time fumbling for ammunition.
My side saddle also improves my overall efficiency. When I have extra rounds mounted on the shotgun, I can reload faster and keep the gun ready for use. That matters whether I am at the range, training, or using the shotgun for home defense. It gives me a simple, practical way to stay prepared.
I also like that it adds convenience without making my setup complicated. My shells are organized, easy to see, and always in the same place. For me, that reliability is one of the biggest reasons a side saddle is necessary.
My Buying Guides on Side Saddle For Shotgun
What I Look for First
When I shop for a side saddle for my shotgun, I first think about how I plan to use it. For home defense, I want fast access and a secure hold. For range use or competition, I care more about reload speed and comfort. I always make sure the side saddle matches my shotgun model before I buy anything.
Material and Build Quality
I pay close attention to the material because it affects durability and weight. I usually see side saddles made from polymer, aluminum, or nylon. In my experience, metal options feel more rugged, while polymer models are lighter and easier to carry. I also check the stitching, molding, and hardware to make sure it can handle repeated use.
Capacity Matters
I decide how many shells I want to keep on the shotgun before choosing a side saddle. Some hold 4 rounds, while others hold 6 or more. I prefer a capacity that gives me enough extra shells without making the shotgun feel too bulky. For me, the right balance between ammo storage and handling is important.
Mounting Method
I always look at how the side saddle attaches to the shotgun. Some use adhesive backing, while others mount with screws, clamps, or replacement trigger pins. I personally like a mounting system that feels solid and does not shift during recoil. If it is hard to install or remove, I make sure I am comfortable with that before buying.
Shell Retention
I want my shells to stay in place, but I also need them to come out smoothly when I reload. If the retention is too tight, I may struggle during a fast reload. If it is too loose, I worry about shells falling out. I look for a side saddle that gives me a firm but workable grip on the shells.
Comfort and Balance
I notice how the side saddle changes the feel of my shotgun. A heavy or awkward setup can throw off balance and make handling less comfortable. I prefer a model that keeps the shotgun easy to shoulder and move with. For me, comfort matters just as much as storage capacity.
Compatibility With Accessories
I also think about other accessories I may already have on my shotgun, like optics, lights, or slings. I want to make sure the side saddle does not interfere with them. If I use my shotgun for a specific purpose, I check that everything works together without getting in the way.
Ease of Reloading
The main reason I use a side saddle is to speed up reloads, so I test how easy it is to grab the shells. I like a layout that lets me reach the rounds quickly and naturally. If the shell positions feel awkward, I know it may slow me down when I need it most.
Price and Value
I do not always choose the most expensive side saddle, but I avoid the cheapest one if the quality looks poor. I look for the best value based on durability, fit, and performance. In my experience, spending a little more often gives me better reliability and fewer problems later.
Final Thoughts
When I choose a side saddle for my shotgun, I focus on fit, retention, durability, and ease of use. I want something that feels dependable and helps me reload faster without making the shotgun harder to handle. By comparing these features carefully, I can pick a side saddle that truly works for my needs.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a side saddle for a shotgun is one of the simplest ways to improve readiness and keep extra shells within easy reach. I like that it adds convenience without making major changes to the firearm, whether I’m using it for home defense, range practice, or competition. My main takeaway is that choosing the right side saddle comes down to fit, durability, and how comfortably it works with my shooting style.
Author Profile
-
Jesse Rayford is based in Richmond, Virginia, where a background in communication and years of working with clear, practical information shaped the way he looks at everyday products. He tends to notice the small things, from awkward instructions to features that sound better on paper than they feel in real use.
Outside work, Jesse enjoys independent bookstores, photography, simple home projects, and long walks that usually turn into thinking time. He started GlobalPress News Services in 2026 to share grounded opinions, useful comparisons, and the kind of details he wishes were easier to find before buying something new.
Latest entries
- September 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best 10 Years Sober Gift Ideas: Meaningful, Inspiring, and Perfect for Celebrating a Decade of Sobriety
- September 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Chain Extenders for Necklaces: The Best Ways to Add Length, Comfort, and Style
- September 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Horse Ointment for Human Pain: Does It Really Work?
- September 20, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Hartz Flea Collar: My Honest Experience and What You Need to Know