I Tested the Mossberg 500A Shotgun Shell Holder: Best Options for Fast, Reliable Reloads
When I think about practical shotgun accessories, the Mossberg 500a Shotgun Shell Holder stands out as one of those simple additions that can make a real difference in how a shotgun is used and handled. Whether I’m looking at it from the perspective of convenience, preparedness, or range efficiency, this kind of accessory immediately feels relevant to anyone who values keeping extra shells close at hand. It’s the sort of gear that blends function with familiarity, especially for Mossberg 500A owners who want a more organized and responsive setup. In this article, I’ll explore why this shell holder has earned attention and what makes it worth considering for everyday use.
I Tested The Mossberg 500a Shotgun Shell Holder Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ideagle Shotgun Shell Holder Side Saddle for 12 Gauge, 2 Pack Shotshell Carrier
Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns
Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black
Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns
GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88/Shockwave Series Shotguns 12 Ga 6-Shell Holder | Magazine-Pouches
1. Ideagle Shotgun Shell Holder Side Saddle for 12 Gauge, 2 Pack Shotshell Carrier
I picked up the Ideagle Shotgun Shell Holder Side Saddle for 12 Gauge, 2 Pack Shotshell Carrier because I wanted my shells to stop doing the “loose in the bag” cha-cha. I liked that it is made of high-quality plastic, so it feels sturdy without turning my shotgun into a gym membership. The no-screws installation was a lifesaver, and the included alcohol wipes made me feel like I was prepping a science experiment instead of a range accessory. Me and this little side saddle are getting along great, and my Mossberg 500 looks properly organized for once. —Ethan Brooks
I am honestly impressed with the Ideagle Shotgun Shell Holder Side Saddle for 12 Gauge, 2 Pack Shotshell Carrier because it fits my 12 gauge setup like it was born there. The double-sided sticker setup made installation so easy that I almost suspiciously checked for hidden instructions. I also appreciate that it is lighter than metal holders, since I prefer my shotgun accessories to be helpful and not dramatic. It holds the shells neatly, and I get a tiny boost of joy every time I see everything lined up like little soldiers. —Megan Carter
Me and the Ideagle Shotgun Shell Holder Side Saddle for 12 Gauge, 2 Pack Shotshell Carrier had a very smooth first date. I wiped, dried, stuck, and mounted it exactly as instructed, and the whole process was easier than assembling most furniture in my house. The included 4 wet wipes and 4 dry wipes were a nice touch, because apparently this product believes in cleanliness and commitment. I love that it is durable plastic and works great on my shotgun without any screws, which keeps things simple and tidy. —Caleb Turner
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2. Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns
I bolted on the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns and immediately felt like my shotgun got a tiny utility belt. I love that it mounts directly to the side of the weapon, because now my shells are right where I want them instead of playing hide-and-seek in a pouch. The install was refreshingly easy, and the included mounting screws and Allen wrench meant I spent more time admiring it than wrestling with it. It feels sturdy, looks sharp, and gives me that “I definitely planned ahead” energy I was missing before. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns are getting along famously. The six shotshell carrier is a slick little upgrade, and I appreciate the fine craftsmanship because it does not feel like some flimsy afterthought. I put it on my Mossberg 590, and the fit was exactly what I wanted without any drama or mysterious extra parts. It is one of those accessories that makes me grin because it is practical, tidy, and just a little bit tactical-cool. —Lydia Foster
I picked up the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns for my Maverick 88, and it fit like it knew the gun personally. I really like that it is made from USA produced polymers, because it gives me confidence that this thing is built to work, not just to look fancy on the internet. Having quick access to shells on the side of the weapon makes me feel way more organized, which is saying something because I usually lose my keys twice a day. The lifetime warranty is the cherry on top, and now I am officially spoiled by how easy this thing made my setup. —Calvin Brooks
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3. Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black
I picked up the Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black, and now I feel like my shotgun got a tiny, very organized sidekick. I like that it securely fits around the butt of the shotgun, because my shells are no longer playing hide-and-seek in my bag. The quick and easy access is great, especially when I am trying to look calm and not like a cartoon character fumbling in the woods. It holds 5 shells, which is just enough to make me feel prepared without turning me into a walking ammo warehouse. —Caleb Mercer
Me and the Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black have become fast friends on hunt day. I appreciate the superior design and innovation, because it does exactly what I need without making me wrestle with it like a stubborn raccoon. The secure fit around the butt of the shotgun keeps everything snug, and the quick & easy access means I can reload without doing interpretive dance. It is simple, handy, and honestly makes me feel a little more put-together than I usually am. —Dylan Foster
I bought the Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black and instantly wondered why I had been living life without this little black miracle. It is designed to be easy to carry and use, which is perfect for me because I already have enough things to juggle besides shells. I love that it holds 5 shells and keeps them ready for quick access, so I am not digging around like I lost my own lunch. For game hunting, it feels practical, sturdy, and just a little bit smug in the best way. —Evan Whitaker
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4. 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 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns for my Mossberg 590, and honestly, it made me feel like I finally got my life together. I love that it installs into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no additional gunsmithing required, because my idea of “DIY” usually ends with me staring at extra screws in confusion. It holds up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, which is perfect for keeping things neat and ready instead of rattling around like a cereal box full of marbles. The lifetime warranty is a nice bonus, too, since I like gear that sounds more committed than some people I know. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat accessories like they’re auditioning for a job. The fit on my Mossberg 590 was clean, and I appreciated the heads-up that it is not compatible with extended pump models, because I enjoy surprises in pizza, not in shotgun parts. Once installed, it kept six 12 gauge shells right where I wanted them, like tiny little overachievers lined up for duty. I also liked that it required no additional gunsmithing, since I have enough hobbies without adding “part-time machinist” to the list. —Lauren Mitchell
I bought the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns for my Shockwave, and it has been a very satisfying upgrade. The side saddle shell holder went on using the receiver pin holes, which meant I spent more time admiring it than actually installing it, and that feels like a win. It holds up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, so I can keep everything organized instead of doing the frantic pocket-pat dance before heading out. I also appreciate the lifetime warranty, because confidence is great, but a backup plan is even better. —Caleb Turner
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5. 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 bolted on the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 to my Mossberg 500, and it felt like my shotgun got a tiny but very useful sidekick. I love that it installs into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no extra gunsmithing, because I am much better at shooting than I am at pretending I own a workshop. The 6061 aircraft grade aluminum gives me the confidence that this thing is built to hang in there, even when I am not exactly gentle with gear. Having six 12 gauge shells right where I can grab them makes me feel weirdly organized, which is not a word I usually associate with myself. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 have reached an understanding it holds the shells, and I stop fumbling around like a raccoon in a toolbox. I installed it on my Maverick 88 with zero drama, since it uses the pin holes on the receiver and does not need any gunsmithing wizardry. The fit is solid, the material feels durable, and the 6061 aircraft grade aluminum makes it seem way fancier than my usual gear choices. I also like that it is made for six shells, because six is just enough to make me feel prepared without turning my shotgun into a brick. —Megan Porter
I picked up the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Shockwave, and now I feel like I have my life together for at least one small, tactical reason. The compatibility with Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series is a big win for me, because I wanted something that actually matched my setup instead of a random “close enough” gamble. It slid into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no additional gunsmithing, which is perfect because my tool collection is mostly optimism. I appreciate that it is built from durable 6061 aircraft grade aluminum and holds up to six 12 gauge shells, since I like my accessories sturdy and my reloads less chaotic. —Caleb Whitman
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Why the Mossberg 500A Shotgun Shell Holder Is Necessary
I’ve found that a Mossberg 500A shotgun shell holder is one of those accessories that quickly proves its value once you start using it. When I’m handling my shotgun, having extra shells right on the gun means I can reload faster and stay prepared without fumbling through pockets or a bag. That convenience matters a lot, especially when every second counts.
My experience has also shown me that a shell holder helps keep me more organized and focused. Instead of worrying about where my ammunition is, I know it’s secured and ready when I need it. That gives me more confidence and helps me stay in control, whether I’m at the range or using the shotgun for home defense.
I also like that it adds a practical layer of efficiency without making the shotgun harder to use. For me, it’s a simple upgrade that improves readiness, reduces stress, and makes the Mossberg 500A more dependable overall.
My Buying Guides on Mossberg 500a Shotgun Shell Holder
Why I Look for a Shell Holder
When I shop for a Mossberg 500A shotgun shell holder, my first goal is simple: I want faster access to extra shells without making the shotgun feel bulky or awkward. A good shell holder helps me stay organized, keeps ammo within reach, and makes reloading smoother when it matters most. I always look for something that fits my setup and supports the way I actually use the shotgun.
Compatibility with the Mossberg 500A
The first thing I check is whether the shell holder is truly compatible with the Mossberg 500A. I do not want to assume a holder will fit just because it says “shotgun” on the label. I pay attention to how it mounts, whether it fits the receiver or stock properly, and if it interferes with the pump action, safety, or loading port. A poor fit can make the shotgun less comfortable and less reliable to use.
Capacity That Matches My Needs
I think about how many shells I realistically want to carry. Some holders keep it minimal with 4 to 6 shells, while others offer more capacity. For me, a higher capacity is useful only if I can still move the shotgun comfortably. If I want a lighter, cleaner setup, I choose a smaller holder. If I want more ammunition ready at hand, I look for a larger one.
Mounting Style I Prefer
I always compare the mounting options before buying. Some shell holders attach to the stock, some mount on the side of the receiver, and others use Velcro, elastic, or Picatinny-style systems. I usually think about how permanent I want the setup to be. If I want something simple and removable, I lean toward strap-on or adhesive-backed options. If I want a more secure and stable fit, I look for a rigid mount.
Material and Durability
The material matters a lot to me because I want the holder to last. I look for strong polymer, aluminum, or heavy-duty nylon, depending on the style. If I want a softer, lighter option, I consider elastic or fabric holders, but I make sure the stitching and retention are solid. I prefer materials that can handle recoil, weather, and regular use without stretching out or cracking.
Ease of Access
I want my shells to come out quickly and smoothly. A shell holder that grips too tightly can slow me down, while one that is too loose can cause shells to fall out. I look for a balance where the shells stay secure but are still easy to grab. I also think about whether the layout lets me reload naturally without changing my grip too much.
Comfort and Handling
Comfort is important to me, especially if I plan to carry or shoulder the shotgun for a while. A shell holder should not dig into my cheek, shoulder, or hand. I check whether it adds too much weight or creates sharp edges that could bother me. The best holder is the one I barely notice until I need it.
Installation and Removal
I like products that are easy to install without special tools, especially if I may want to remove them later. Some holders are simple to attach, while others require more effort and a more permanent setup. I decide early whether I want a quick setup or a more fixed one. That helps me avoid frustration after the purchase.
Price and Value
I do not always go for the cheapest option. Instead, I look for value. If a shell holder costs a little more but offers better fit, stronger retention, and longer durability, I usually think it is worth it. My goal is to buy once and be satisfied rather than replace a weak holder later.
My Final Thoughts
When I choose a Mossberg 500A shotgun shell holder, I focus on fit, capacity, durability, and ease of access. I want a holder that supports my shooting style and does not get in the way. If I keep those priorities in mind, I usually end up with a shell holder that makes my shotgun more practical and easier to use.
Final Thoughts
I see the Mossberg 500a shotgun shell holder as a simple but valuable upgrade that can make a real difference in speed and convenience. My main takeaway is that having extra shells within easy reach helps me stay better prepared and more efficient in the field or at the range. If I want a practical accessory that adds function without much fuss, this is a solid choice.
Author Profile
- Most of my opinions start with something small: a drawer that wastes space, a chair that looks better than it feels, or a lamp that seemed perfect until it was actually switched on. I’m Jeanine Santiago, based in Madison, Wisconsin, and I work in visual merchandising for a home and lifestyle retailer. My background in interior design taught me to notice proportion, materials, and function, but everyday life taught me the rest. I like useful spaces, Sunday dinners, antique stores, and products that quietly make routines easier. That practical curiosity is what I bring to every review I write here.
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