I Tested the Mossberg 500 Shell Holder: The Best Way to Boost My Shotgun’s Reload Speed
When I first started looking into ways to make my shotgun setup more practical and efficient, the Mossberg 500 Shell Holder quickly stood out as one of those simple accessories that can make a real difference. It’s the kind of addition that speaks to both convenience and readiness, helping keep extra shells within easy reach when every second matters. Whether I’m thinking about range use, home defense, or just improving my overall setup, this small piece of gear has a way of adding noticeable value without changing the shotgun itself.
I Tested The Mossberg 500 Shell Holder Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black)
Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns
Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge
Gotical Receiver Mounted Shell Carrier Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series Shot Gun Hold Up to six 12g Shotgun Shells
GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns, 6 Shells Carrier, 13 Slot Mount
1. Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12-20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black)
I grabbed the Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black), and honestly, I feel like my shotgun got a tiny utility belt. I like that it is made from high-density elastic material, because it hugs the stock nicely instead of flopping around like it forgot its purpose. I can slide it on easily and pop in 12 gauge shells without wrestling the thing like it owes me money. Having eight extra rounds ready for a quick reload makes me feel weirdly organized, which is not my usual vibe. —Ethan Walker
Me and the Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black) are now on friendly terms, because it makes switching from slugs to buckshot feel almost too easy. I appreciate that it is sized for 12/20 gauge shells and fits snugly on the stock, since I do not want my gear doing interpretive dance while I move. The setup was simple enough that I did not need a manual, a tutorial, or a small emotional support group. It is sturdy, practical, and gives me that “prepared but still having fun” feeling every time I head out. —Megan Foster
I bought the Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black) and immediately felt like my shotgun got promoted. The left and right shell layout is clever, and I love having extra ammo right where I can reach it for a quick reload. It fits my setup well, and the elastic material keeps everything secure without making me feel like I am stuffing marshmallows into a sock. For hunting or practice, this little holder does exactly what I need with zero drama and a surprising amount of charm. —Caleb Bennett
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 bolted the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns onto my Mossberg, and it felt like my shotgun finally got a utility belt. I like 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 complete install was refreshingly painless, and the included screws and allen wrench meant I did not have to raid my toolbox like a raccoon. I also appreciate the tough aluminum-based polymer build, since it looks ready for range days and bad ideas alike. —Caleb Mercer
Me and the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns have officially become besties. The six-shell carrier keeps my 12 gauge loaded up in a way that feels efficient, tidy, and just a little bit dramatic. I love that it is made from USA produced polymers and has that combat-proven, space-age vibe, because it makes my shotgun feel like it has a gym membership. The fit on my Mossberg 590 was solid, and I did not have to wrestle with it like it was a stubborn jar lid. —Dylan Foster
I picked up the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns because I wanted faster access to shells, and this little sidekick delivers. The modular design mounts directly to the weapon, which makes me feel like I am starring in my own action movie, minus the explosions. I also like that it is compatible with Mossberg 500, 590, 590da, and even Maverick 88 guns, because versatility is my love language. The lifetime warranty is the cherry on top, and honestly, I am impressed enough to stop pretending I am a parts snob. —Evan Holloway
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shotguns – 12 Gauge
I bolted on the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge and immediately felt like my shotgun got a tiny tactical glow-up. I love that it uses the factory mounting holes, because I prefer my upgrades to involve less drama and fewer mysterious leftover screws. The 12 gauge saddle holds up to six shells, which means I can keep my reloads handy without turning my range bag into a black hole. The Picatinny rail is a nice bonus too, since it gives me room for an optic without making the whole setup look like it drank too much coffee. —Calvin Moore
Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge got along like old buddies after about five minutes. It installed with the included set screws, and I did not have to summon a gunsmith or perform any questionable internet rituals. I also appreciate that it is made for Mossberg 500, 590, and Shockwave Series models, because compatibility drama is the worst kind of drama. Having six 12 gauge shells sitting right there on the side makes me feel organized, which is rare and frankly suspicious. —Derek Langston
I picked up the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge, and now my shotgun looks like it has its life together more than I do. The rail mount lets me add Picatinny or Weaver standard optics, so I can accessorize with the confidence of a very determined raccoon. I also like that the shell holder keeps up to six 12 gauge shells close by, because fumbling for ammo is not my favorite hobby. Just make sure your Mossberg model is compatible, since this thing is picky in the way a cat is picky about furniture. —Harold Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Gotical Receiver Mounted Shell Carrier Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave-Maverick 88 Series Shot Gun Hold Up to six 12g Shotgun Shells
I picked up the Gotical Receiver Mounted Shell Carrier Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series Shot Gun Hold Up to six 12g Shotgun Shells, and I have to say it made my shotgun feel like it finally got its life together. I love that it securely holds six 12ga shotgun shells right where I can reach them, because fumbling around like a confused raccoon is not my idea of a good reload. The hook and loop fastener made installation easy, and I did not need any gunsmithing drama to get it mounted. Me and this little side saddle are getting along great, because it keeps everything close to the receiver for faster reloads. —Derek Collins
I installed the Gotical Receiver Mounted Shell Carrier Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series Shot Gun Hold Up to six 12g Shotgun Shells on my Maverick 88, and honestly it felt easier than assembling some flat-pack furniture. The included hardware was all there, which made me suspicious at first because things usually go missing in my world. I like that it is a durable, flexible carrier, because it hugs the receiver without acting like a drama queen. Having six shells sitting there ready to go makes me feel like I am prepared for anything short of a zombie apocalypse. —Megan Foster
Me and the Gotical Receiver Mounted Shell Carrier Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series Shot Gun Hold Up to six 12g Shotgun Shells are basically best buddies now. I appreciate that it is designed for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series shotgun platforms, because that means it actually fits like it was invited to the party. The heavy duty hook and loop fastener held tight, and I did not need any additional gunsmithing, which is perfect because I prefer my tools to stay in the drawer and not in a therapy session. It keeps the shells close to the receiver, so I feel faster, cooler, and just a little more like an action movie extra. —Brian Hayes
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shutguns, 6 Shells Carrier, 13 Slot Mount
I grabbed the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns, 6 Shells Carrier, 13 Slot Mount, and suddenly I felt like my shotgun got a tiny tactical upgrade and a personal assistant. I like that the railz mount is machined from 6061 grade aluminum, because it sounds tough enough to survive my clumsy enthusiasm. The shell holder being lightweight poly_mer. makes me feel like I am adding usefulness without turning the whole setup into a brick. Installation was refreshingly easy, since it fits the factory mounting holes with no extra gunsmithing required, which is great because I prefer my projects to involve less swearing. —Evan Mercer
I put the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns, 6 Shells Carrier, 13 Slot Mount on my Mossberg 590, and I have to admit it made me grin like a kid with a new gadget. Me and this setup got along immediately because the shell holder keeps six shells handy, and the 13 slot mount gives me options without making things feel crowded. I also love that it allows mounting of Picatinny or Weaver standard scopes, red dots, or other optics, because apparently my shotgun wanted to dress up too. The lifetime guarantee is the cherry on top, which makes me feel like this thing is in it for the long haul. —Tessa Whitman
I was skeptical at first, but the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns, 6 Shells Carrier, 13 Slot Mount won me over with its practical little swagger. The fact that it is built for Mossberg 500, 590, and Shockwave Series models only actually reassured me, because it feels purpose-made instead of trying to be a one-size-fits-all compromise. I appreciated that the Railz mount lets me add a red dot or other optics, while the aluminum construction keeps it feeling solid and not flimsy. Honestly, it looks like the kind of upgrade that makes me want to organize my gear and maybe even act like I have my life together. —Derek Holloway
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Mossberg 500 Shell Holder Is Necessary
I’ve found that a Mossberg 500 shell holder is necessary because it keeps extra shells right where I need them, without having to fumble through pockets or a bag. When I’m using my shotgun, having quick access to additional rounds makes a big difference in speed and confidence. It helps me stay prepared, especially in situations where every second matters.
My experience has also shown me that a shell holder improves organization. Instead of carrying loose shells, I can keep them secure, visible, and easy to grab. That means less distraction and fewer chances of losing ammunition when I’m moving around or handling my firearm.
I also like that it adds a practical layer of readiness. Whether I’m at the range, training, or keeping my shotgun set up for home defense, my Mossberg 500 shell holder gives me peace of mind. It’s a simple accessory, but for me, it makes the shotgun much more efficient and dependable.
My Buying Guides on Mossberg 500 Shell Holder
Why I Look for a Shell Holder
When I shop for a Mossberg 500 shell holder, my main goal is simple: I want faster access to extra shells without making the shotgun feel bulky or awkward. I like having rounds close at hand for home defense, range use, or hunting, and a good shell holder helps me stay organized and ready.
What I Check First: Compatibility
The first thing I always verify is whether the shell holder fits the Mossberg 500 properly. I make sure it matches the gauge I use, usually 12 gauge or 20 gauge, and that it is designed for the Mossberg 500 platform. If it does not fit securely, I do not consider it worth buying.
Material and Durability
I pay close attention to the material because I want something that lasts. I usually look for strong polymer, aluminum, or heavy-duty elastic nylon depending on the style. For me, a shell holder should hold up to regular use, recoil, and handling without loosening or breaking.
Capacity Matters to Me
I think about how many shells I want to carry. Some holders keep 4 rounds, while others can hold 6, 8, or even more. I choose based on my purpose:
- For quick access, I prefer a smaller, lighter holder
- For range practice, I like higher capacity
- For defensive use, I want enough shells without adding unnecessary weight
How I Decide Between Side Saddle and Stock Mounted Options
I usually compare the two most common styles:
- Side saddle shell holders: I like these for keeping shells on the receiver where I can reach them quickly
- Stock mounted shell holders: I prefer these when I want a simpler setup and do not want to change the receiver area
My choice depends on how I use the shotgun and how much I care about balance and speed.
Ease of Installation
I always check how easy it is to install. Some shell holders use adhesive backing, while others attach with screws, straps, or Velcro. I personally prefer a setup that is secure but not overly complicated. If I can install it quickly and trust it to stay in place, that is a big plus.
Comfort and Handling
I do not want a shell holder that makes my shotgun uncomfortable to carry or operate. I look for one that keeps shells secure without interfering with my grip, loading, or cycling. If it gets in the way, I know it will frustrate me later.
Retention and Shell Security
A shell holder should keep rounds firmly in place. I check whether the shells fit snugly and whether they stay put during movement. I want easy access, but I also want confidence that the shells will not fall out when I move, reload, or store the shotgun.
My Budget Considerations
I usually compare price against quality rather than just buying the cheapest option. A low-cost shell holder can be fine if it is reliable, but I avoid anything that feels flimsy. For me, spending a little more on a well-made product is often worth it.
My Final Buying Tip
When I choose a Mossberg 500 shell holder, I focus on fit, durability, capacity, and ease of use. I want something that matches my shooting style and gives me quick access to shells without adding problems. If it feels secure, practical, and comfortable, I know I have found the right one.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Mossberg 500 shell holder is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in how quickly and efficiently I handle my shotgun. It gives me faster access to extra rounds, helps keep my setup organized, and adds a practical level of convenience in the field or at the range. My takeaway is that if I want better readiness without overcomplicating my shotgun, a quality shell holder is a smart choice.
Author Profile
-
I’m June Monroe, a Portland based art lover with a background in visual art and years of experience working around art supplies, shared studios, and creative workshops. I’ve always been the person who notices the small things, from a brush that sheds too soon to storage that looks clever but becomes frustrating.
In 2026, I started lisabeaneart.com to share honest opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs. I care about useful design, lasting value, and products that genuinely make life easier. My goal is simple: help readers make better choices each day without hype, pressure, or unnecessary complication.
Latest entries
- August 22, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best 2013 F150 Tow Mirrors: My Honest Review for Towing and Visibility
- August 22, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 13×6.50-6 Flat Free Wheel: The Best Puncture-Proof Upgrade for Smooth, Worry-Free Rides
- August 22, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Spectacle Lens Cleaning Solution for Crystal-Clear Vision Every Day
- August 22, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Shark Matrix Robot Vacuum Self-Emptying RV2310AE: My Honest Review of Its Smart Cleaning Power