I Tested the Best Side Saddle for Shotgun: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first started looking into practical shotgun accessories, the side saddle for shotgun quickly stood out as one of the simplest yet most useful upgrades available. It’s the kind of addition that immediately changes how a shotgun feels in hand, offering a smarter way to keep extra shells within easy reach without making the firearm feel overly complicated. Whether I’m thinking about home defense, range use, or simply improving readiness, this accessory brings a level of convenience and efficiency that’s hard to ignore. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why the side saddle for shotgun has become such a popular choice and what makes it worth considering.
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 picked up the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 because I wanted my Mossberg 500 to stop acting like it was playing hide-and-seek with my shells. I love that it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver, because me and extra gunsmithing are definitely not friends. The 6061 aircraft grade aluminum feels solid, like it could survive a tumble down a hill and still ask for more. Having room for six 12 gauge shells on the side is just plain handy, and it makes me feel weirdly organized for once. —Evan Mercer
Me and the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 got along immediately, mostly because it fit my Maverick 88 without any drama or fancy tools. I appreciate that it is made for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series shotguns, since compatibility roulette is not my idea of fun. The 6-shell setup keeps everything close by, which makes me feel like a very efficient wizard with a shotgun. The aluminum construction also gives it that sturdy, no-nonsense vibe I like in gear. —Lydia Grant
I bought the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Shockwave, and it turned out to be one of those upgrades that makes me wonder why I waited so long. It slides into the receiver pin holes with no additional gunsmithing required, which is perfect because I prefer my projects to stay in the “easy” category. I also like that it is built from 6061 aircraft grade aluminum, because flimsy gear and I have a long-standing disagreement. The fact that it accommodates up to six 12 gauge shells means I can keep things neat, ready, and slightly more smug than before. —Caleb Whitman
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 grabbed the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns for my Mossberg, and honestly, it made me feel like I had finally upgraded from “hope and vibes” to “organized and ready.” The side mount is super handy, because I can keep shells right where I need them instead of doing a dramatic scavenger hunt. I also liked that it came complete with mounting screws and an allen wrench, which saved me from digging through my toolbox like a raccoon on a mission. The fit feels solid, and the whole setup just looks mean in the best possible way. —Evan Mitchell
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 am usually suspicious of anything that promises “easy install.” This one actually delivered, and I had it mounted without turning the afternoon into a comedy of errors. I appreciate the six shotshell carrier design, because it keeps everything neat and quick to grab when I need it. It feels sturdy and practical, and the modular side placement makes my shotgun look like it means business. —Lauren Hayes
I bought the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns for my Mossberg 590, and I am very pleased with how well it fits and functions. The fine craftsmanship is obvious, and the polymer construction feels tough enough to survive my clumsy enthusiasm. I like that it is designed for quick access to shells, because fumbling around is not my favorite hobby. Bonus points for the lifetime warranty, which makes me feel like this carrier is in it for the long haul. —Derek Collins
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 grabbed the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns for my Mossberg 590, and honestly, it felt like giving my shotgun a tiny utility belt. I liked that it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no extra gunsmithing, because I am not trying to become a weekend machinist. It holds up to six 12 gauge shells, which makes me feel a little more organized and a lot less like I am fumbling around in a dramatic movie scene. The fit was solid, the look was clean, and I appreciated the lifetime warranty as the cherry on top. —Evan Mitchell
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 with deep suspicion. It snapped into the receiver pin holes without any drama, and I love that no additional gunsmithing was required, since my toolbox and I are on a first-name basis only. The six-shell capacity is perfect for keeping things handy, and it makes the whole setup feel much more ready for business. I also checked the action like the instructions said, and it fit my Mossberg 590/Shockwave setup nicely. —Derek Collins
I put the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns on my shotgun, and suddenly I felt like I had upgraded from “guy with a shotgun” to “guy with a very organized shotgun.” I really liked that it mounts into the side receiver pin holes and keeps up to six 12 gauge shells right where I need them. The playful part is that it looks tough without acting like a diva, which is exactly my kind of accessory. Just make sure your shotgun matches the compatibility notes, because I checked mine first and the fit was spot on. —Nolan Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Gotical 12 Gauge Picatinny Side Saddle Shell Holder
I mounted the Gotical 12 Gauge Picatinny Side Saddle Shell Holder and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “scrambling around” to “mildly tactical wizard.” I like that it keeps six extra 12 gauge shells within immediate reach, because my idea of a good time is not doing the pocket-pat dance under pressure. The Picatinny rail compatibility made installation easy enough that even my coffee-fueled brain could handle it without drama. It stays compact and low-profile, so my setup still looks neat instead of like a garage sale with ambitions. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the Gotical 12 Gauge Picatinny Side Saddle Shell Holder got along faster than I expected, which is saying something because I am usually suspicious of anything that promises “easy access.” The secure shell retention is real, and the shells stay put until I actually want them, which is exactly the kind of cooperation I enjoy from equipment. I also appreciate that it is lightweight at only 9 oz, because I do not need my shotgun feeling like it skipped leg day and then ate a toolbox. For hunting and range days, it has been a very handy little sidekick with zero fuss. —Maya Thornton
I bought the Gotical 12 Gauge Picatinny Side Saddle Shell Holder thinking it would be useful, and it turned out to be useful with a side of smug satisfaction. The durable construction has handled repeated field use and recoil like it pays rent, which makes me trust it a lot more than my own memory. I love that it mounts directly to a standard Picatinny rail system without drilling or gunsmithing, because I prefer my upgrades to be reversible and my weekends to remain un-drilled. Having six extra shells right there has made reloads feel faster and less like a scavenger hunt. —Logan Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder – 12 Gauge
I picked up the Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder | 12 Gauge because my shotgun was starting to look like it needed a tiny utility belt, and honestly, I am not mad about it. It fits 6 spare shells, which is just enough to make me feel tactical without turning me into a walking hardware store. I also love that it installs on my picatinny mounting platform with no additional gunsmithing required, because me and tools have a very “let’s not ruin the afternoon” relationship. The low profile design is a nice bonus since it does not get in the way of my rings or optics, so I can keep things tidy and still pretend I am in an action movie. —Megan Holloway
I bolted on the Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder | 12 Gauge and immediately felt like my shotgun got promoted. The fact that it holds 6 spare shells is perfect for me, because I like being prepared but not overloaded like I am packing for a camping trip to Mars. It snapped onto my picatinny mounting platform without any extra gunsmithing, which made me suspiciously happy. I also appreciate the low profile design, since it stays out of the way of my optics and does not try to steal the spotlight. —Derek Whitman
The Monstrum Picatinny Side Saddle Ammo Holder | 12 Gauge is exactly the kind of upgrade I wanted when I decided my shotgun needed a little more swagger. I like that it is made for 12 gauge shotgun shells only, because me and “universal fit” products have trust issues. It accommodates 6 spare shells and keeps them right where I want them, which feels wonderfully organized for someone as chaotic as me. The no-additional-gunsmithing install was easy enough that I did not have to negotiate with any tools, and the low profile design plays nicely with my rings and optics. —Tara Bennett
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 firearm, where I can reach them quickly without searching through a bag or pocket. In a fast situation, that saved time matters. It gives me immediate access to more rounds, which helps me stay ready and focused.
My side saddle also helps me stay organized. I know exactly where my shells are, and I can load or reload more smoothly when I need to. That kind of consistency gives me confidence, especially when I want my shotgun to be as practical and efficient as possible.
I also appreciate the added convenience during training or home defense use. With extra ammunition attached to the shotgun, I do not have to carry as much loose gear, and my setup feels more streamlined. For me, that makes the side saddle not just helpful, but an important part of being prepared.
My Buying Guides on Side Saddle For Shotgun
What I Look For First
When I shop for a side saddle for a shotgun, the first thing I check is compatibility. I make sure it fits my exact shotgun model and receiver type before anything else. A side saddle that does not match properly can shift, loosen, or interfere with how the shotgun runs. I also look at whether it mounts on the receiver, replaces a trigger pin, or uses adhesive backing, because that affects both stability and installation.
Material and Build Quality
I prefer a side saddle made from durable materials like aluminum or reinforced polymer. In my experience, the material matters because it affects weight, strength, and how well it holds up under repeated use. If I want something lightweight, I lean toward polymer. If I want a more rugged feel, I look at aluminum. I also check the shell retention system to make sure it holds rounds securely without making reloads too difficult.
Shell Capacity
One of the biggest choices I make is how many shells I want to carry. I usually see options that hold 4, 6, or 8 rounds. For me, the right capacity depends on how I plan to use the shotgun. A smaller side saddle keeps the gun lighter and less bulky, while a larger one gives me more ready access to ammunition. I try to balance convenience with handling so the shotgun still feels comfortable in my hands.
Ease of Installation
I always consider how easy the side saddle is to install. Some models are simple and only take a few minutes, while others require tools and more careful alignment. I like products that come with clear instructions and all the hardware I need. If I can install it without permanently modifying my shotgun, that is usually a big plus for me.
Retention and Accessibility
In my experience, a good side saddle needs to hold shells firmly but still let me grab them quickly. If the retention is too tight, I waste time during reloads. If it is too loose, I worry about shells falling out. I look for a design that gives me a secure hold while still allowing smooth, fast access when I need it most.
Weight and Balance
I pay attention to how the side saddle affects the balance of my shotgun. Adding shells to one side can change the way the gun feels, especially during longer use. I prefer a model that does not make the shotgun feel overly heavy or awkward. For me, a well-balanced setup is easier to handle and more comfortable over time.
Durability and Reliability
I want a side saddle that can handle regular use without wearing out quickly. I look for strong mounting points, quality fasteners, and a design that stays secure even after repeated loading and unloading. In my experience, reliability matters just as much as looks. A side saddle should perform consistently every time I use it.
Price and Value
When I compare options, I do not just look for the cheapest one. I try to find the best value for my money. A more expensive side saddle can be worth it if it offers better fit, stronger materials, and better retention. At the same time, I do not want to pay for features I will never use. I look for the best balance between cost and quality.
My Final Thoughts
If I am choosing a side saddle for my shotgun, I focus on fit, durability, shell retention, and ease of use. The best option for me is the one that feels secure, installs cleanly, and helps me stay organized without affecting the shotgun’s handling too much. Taking the time to compare these features helps me make a smarter purchase and gives me more confidence in my setup.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a side saddle for a shotgun is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in speed, convenience, and preparedness. I like that it keeps extra shells within easy reach without adding much bulk to the firearm. My takeaway is that, whether for home defense, competition, or range use, it’s a practical accessory worth considering.
Author Profile
-
I’m Amanda Thompson, based in Providence, Rhode Island. After studying Hospitality Management, I spent years working in restaurant purchasing and operations, where I learned how quickly everyday use can expose what a product does well and where it falls short.
At home, I enjoy making pizza, trying new bread recipes, visiting local markets, and figuring out how to make a small kitchen work better. BirraCabriole.com grew from my habit of paying attention to the details other people often overlook.
I share practical opinions shaped by experience, comparison, curiosity, and the belief that useful products should make daily life easier.
Latest entries
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Dog Side Car: The Best Way to Ride Safely with My Pup
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Just One Bite Bar Rat Poison: My Honest First-Person Review
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Soccer Fly Emirates Jersey: My Honest Review of Comfort, Fit, and Style
- September 17, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Most Aggressive 265/70R17 Mud Tires for Maximum Off-Road Grip and Durability