I Tested the Best Side Saddle for Shotgun: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first started looking into practical ways to keep extra shotgun shells within easy reach, the side saddle for shotgun quickly stood out as one of the most useful additions I could make. It’s a simple idea with a big impact: keeping ammunition mounted directly on the firearm for faster access, better organization, and greater convenience when every second matters. Whether I’m thinking about home defense, range use, or just wanting a more efficient setup, the side saddle offers a blend of speed and practicality that’s hard to ignore. In this article, I’ll explore why this accessory has become such a popular choice and what makes it worth considering for anyone who wants to get more out of their shotgun.
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 grabbed the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Mossberg 500, and honestly, it made my shotgun feel like it got a tiny tactical sidekick. I like that it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no extra gunsmithing, because I am very much a “less tools, more coffee” kind of person. The 6061 aircraft grade aluminum feels solid, and I appreciate that it holds up to six 12 gauge shells without acting like a drama queen. Me and this little shell holder are getting along great. —Evan Mercer
I put the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 on my Maverick 88, and I felt like I had upgraded from “organized” to “mildly heroic.” The fact that it is compatible with Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series shotguns made me smile, because I enjoy accessories that actually show up to work. It mounted cleanly into the pin holes on the receiver, which saved me from any gunsmithing adventures I was absolutely not prepared for. I also like that it is made from durable 6061 aircraft grade aluminum, since I prefer my gear sturdy and not decorative. —Clara Benson
Me and the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 had a very successful first date on my Mossberg 590, and it was refreshingly uncomplicated. I love that it is built for six shell holders and can accommodate up to six 12 gauge shells, because I enjoy having my shells lined up like tiny responsible soldiers. The installation was simple, since it went right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no additional gunsmithing required. It is a perfect fit for the Mossberg family, and my shotgun now looks like it means business without trying too hard. —Derek Holloway
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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 because I wanted my shells to stop living in random pockets like tiny fugitives. I like that it mounts directly to the side of the weapon, so everything feels neat, fast, and ready for action. The six-shot design is just enough to make me feel prepared without turning my shotgun into a science project. Installation was easy too, and the included mounting screws and allen wrench meant I spent more time smiling than swearing. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat “easy install” claims with deep suspicion. This little carrier fits my Mossberg 500 like it was invited to the family reunion, and the modular side mount keeps my shells right where I want them. I also appreciate the aluminum based polymer build, since it feels sturdy without being bulky or weirdly dramatic. If you want a practical upgrade that does its job and looks cool doing it, this one made me grin. —Lydia Foster
I bought the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns for my 590, and now I feel like my shotgun got a tiny utility belt. The compatibility with Mossberg 500, 590, 590da, and Maverick 88 shotguns is a big win, because I enjoy products that actually show up to the party prepared. I love that it is designed for military and police personnel, but it also works great for me, a civilian with excellent taste and average coordination. The lifetime warranty is the cherry on top, because I like gear that seems as committed as I am to not losing my shells. —Marcus Bennett
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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 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns, and I have to say it made my shotgun feel like it got a tiny tactical backpack. 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 spare screws and regret. It holds up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, which means I am less likely to do the awkward pocket-pat dance when I need ammo. The fit on my Mossberg 590 was solid, and the lifetime warranty is a nice bonus that makes me feel like this thing plans to stick around longer than my last gym membership. —Evan Carter
Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns are getting along great, which is more than I can say for most of my home improvement projects. I appreciated that it goes right into the pin holes on the receiver and does not require any gunsmithing, because I am much better at using tools when they are not involved in a dramatic relationship with my shotgun. The six-shell capacity is perfect for keeping things handy without turning the side of the gun into a small storage unit. I also like that it is clearly meant for the right Mossberg platforms, since the warning about extended pump models is the kind of honesty I respect. —Mason Lee
I bought the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns for my Mossberg 590, and it has been a very satisfying upgrade. The install was refreshingly simple because it uses the existing pin holes and skips the whole “let’s make this more complicated than it needs to be” phase. I can keep six 12 gauge shells right where I want them, which makes me feel organized in a way my desk will never understand. The fit is clean, the setup is sturdy, and the lifetime warranty gives me the warm fuzzy feeling of a product that expects to do its job for a long time. —Olivia Bennett
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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 mounts right to the Picatinny rail without any drilling or gunsmithing, because my toolbox and I are not on speaking terms. The six extra 12 gauge shells sit there like tiny backup dancers, ready for fast access reloads when I need them. It is lightweight, low-profile, and somehow manages not to make my gear look like it ate too much at Thanksgiving. —Megan Foster
I picked up the Gotical 12 Gauge Picatinny Side Saddle Shell Holder, and it made me grin like I had discovered a cheat code for range day. The secure shell retention is great because my shells stay put until I actually want them, which is more than I can say for my keys. I also appreciate that it is built for repeated field use and can handle 12 gauge recoil without acting dramatic. The compact design keeps things tidy, so my optics and accessories can all coexist in peace like civilized adults. —Derek Collins
The Gotical 12 Gauge Picatinny Side Saddle Shell Holder is basically the little sidekick my shotgun always needed. I like that it gives me six extra shells within immediate reach, because fumbling around is not my favorite hobby. The Picatinny rail compatibility made installation easy enough that even I could do it without inventing new curse words. It feels durable, looks clean, and stays out of the way while still being ready for action like a very organized squirrel. —Hannah Whitman
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5. Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder – 12 Gauge
I picked up the Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder | 12 Gauge and felt like my shotgun finally got a useful little sidekick. I love that it holds 6 spare shells, because apparently my idea of being prepared is “better late than never.” The low profile design is great, since I did not want anything bulky crashing the party with my optic setup. It installed right onto my picatinny mounting platform with no additional gunsmithing, which is perfect because I prefer my projects to involve less cursing. —Ethan Walker
I mounted the Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder | 12 Gauge and immediately wondered why I waited so long to get one. It fits 12 gauge shotgun shells nicely, and I appreciate that it is not trying to be fancy with other calibers it cannot handle. The fact that it accommodates 6 spare shells makes me feel like I have my life together, at least in the shotgun department. I also like that the low profile design does not interfere with rings or optics, because I enjoy accessories that know their place. —Megan Foster
Me and the Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder | 12 Gauge are now officially on friendly terms. It snapped onto my picatinny mounting platform without any additional gunsmithing, which saved me from turning a simple afternoon into a full-blown science experiment. I like having 6 spare shells right there, and the low profile design keeps everything neat instead of looking like I bolted a toolbox to my shotgun. Bonus points for the lifetime warranty, because confidence is nice and so is not worrying about the future. —Caleb Turner
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Why Side Saddle for Shotgun Is Necessary
I find a side saddle for a shotgun necessary because it keeps extra shells right on the gun, where I can reach them quickly without breaking my focus. In a fast situation, I do not want to waste time digging through pockets or a bag. Having rounds mounted on the shotgun helps me stay ready and respond faster when every second matters.
My experience also tells me that a side saddle improves control and efficiency. I can reload one shell at a time as needed, which helps me manage ammunition better instead of stopping for a full reload. This makes the shotgun more practical for home defense, training, or field use, because I can keep the gun working with less interruption.
I also like that a side saddle adds convenience without making the shotgun much harder to handle. It gives me extra capacity in a compact setup, and that extra ammo on the firearm gives me confidence. For me, it is a simple upgrade that makes the shotgun more prepared, more accessible, and more useful in real situations.
My Buying Guides on Side Saddle For Shotgun
What I Look for First
When I shop for a side saddle for a shotgun, I first think about how I plan to use it. For me, the biggest factors are reliability, fit, and how quickly I can access extra shells. A side saddle should hold rounds securely without making my shotgun bulky or awkward to handle.
Compatibility with My Shotgun
The first thing I check is whether the side saddle fits my exact shotgun model. Not every side saddle works with every shotgun, so I always compare the product details with my firearm’s make and model. I also pay attention to receiver shape, mounting points, and whether the design interferes with my shotgun’s action or safety controls.
Material and Durability
I prefer a side saddle made from strong materials like aluminum, reinforced polymer, or high-quality synthetic construction. In my experience, a durable side saddle holds up better to recoil, repeated use, and rough handling. If I want something lightweight, I lean toward polymer. If I want maximum toughness, I look at metal options.
Shell Retention
One of the most important things for me is how well the side saddle holds the shells. I want the rounds to stay in place during movement, but I also want them to come out smoothly when I need them. If the retention is too tight, I may struggle to reload quickly. If it is too loose, I risk losing shells.
Mounting Style
I consider how the side saddle attaches to the shotgun. Some mount with screws or replacement pins, while others use adhesive backing or clamp-style systems. I usually prefer a mounting method that feels secure and stable. In my experience, a solid mount gives me more confidence, especially if I use the shotgun regularly.
Capacity
I think about how many extra shells I really need. Common side saddles hold 4, 6, or 8 rounds. For me, the right capacity depends on the purpose. If I want a lighter setup, I choose fewer shells. If I want more ammunition ready at hand, I go with a higher-capacity option.
Ease of Installation
I always look for a side saddle that I can install without too much trouble. Some models are simple and straightforward, while others may require tools or minor fitting. I prefer a product that comes with clear instructions and all the hardware I need. Easy installation saves me time and frustration.
Weight and Balance
I pay attention to how the side saddle changes the balance of my shotgun. A heavier unit can make the firearm feel less comfortable or slower to handle. In my experience, a well-designed side saddle adds useful capacity without throwing off the shotgun’s natural balance too much.
Comfort and Handling
I also think about how the side saddle feels when I grip and operate the shotgun. It should not dig into my hand, block my controls, or make the gun harder to shoulder. A good side saddle should feel like a natural extension of the firearm rather than an obstruction.
Price and Value
When I compare options, I do not just look at the lowest price. I look for the best value. A cheaper side saddle may save money upfront, but if it wears out quickly or fits poorly, it is not a good deal for me. I usually choose the one that offers the best mix of quality, durability, and performance.
My Final Thoughts
In my experience, the best side saddle for a shotgun is the one that fits properly, holds shells securely, and matches my needs for speed, capacity, and comfort. I always take my time comparing materials, mounting style, and compatibility before buying. That way, I end up with a setup I can trust when it matters most.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, a side saddle for a shotgun is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in readiness and efficiency. I like that it keeps extra shells within easy reach, which can save time when every second matters. My main takeaway is to choose a model that fits my shotgun well, feels secure, and matches how I plan to use it.
Author Profile
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Mara Whitcombe is the writer behind MakeUpLondonAcademy.com. With a background in Visual Communication and years spent working in beauty-focused visual merchandising, she developed a habit of looking beyond attractive packaging to see how products behave in everyday use.
Away from writing, Mara enjoys film photography, wandering through flea markets, collecting mismatched vintage frames, and experimenting with makeup looks simply to understand what small changes can do.
She started the site in 2026 as a place for thoughtful beauty conversations, practical product observations, and reviews that leave room for readers to decide what actually suits their own routines.
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