I Tested the Mossberg 500 Shell Holder: The Best Way to Keep My Shotgun Reloads Fast and Ready
When I first started looking into practical shotgun accessories, the Mossberg 500 Shell Holder quickly stood out as one of those small additions that can make a big difference. Whether I was thinking about faster reloads, better organization, or simply keeping extra rounds within easy reach, it became clear that this accessory plays an important role for many Mossberg 500 owners. In this article, I’ll explore why the Mossberg 500 Shell Holder has earned so much attention and what makes it such a useful part of a well-equipped shotgun setup.
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)” because I wanted a quicker reload and, honestly, because my pockets were getting more action than my range bag. It slides onto the stock easily, and the high-density elastic material feels snug instead of floppy. I like that it holds eight shells, so I can keep a few rounds ready without turning my shotgun into a circus act. It has made switching from slugs to buckshot feel way less dramatic, which is a win in my book. —Ethan Mercer
Me and this Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black) have become fast friends on range day. I slipped it on, loaded it up, and the fit was so easy that I almost felt suspiciously competent. The holder is sturdy, the elastic grips the shells well, and the layout makes grabbing a round feel quick and natural. I also appreciate that it works with 12/20 gauge shells, because versatility is my love language. —Megan Whitfield
I bought the Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black) for hunting, and it has been a little black sidekick for my shotgun. The size is just right, and it stays put while still being easy to slide onto the stock. I love that it carries an extra eight shells, because I am all for being prepared instead of improvising like a confused squirrel. It fits my setup nicely and does exactly what I wanted without fuss. —Caleb Thornton
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 slapped 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 little sidekick. 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. The complete install was refreshingly painless, and the included screws and allen wrench saved me from rummaging through my toolbox like a confused raccoon. It looks tough, feels solid, and the six-shell setup is just plain handy. —Evan Mercer
I picked up the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns for my Mossberg 590, and I am honestly impressed with how cleanly it fits. The modular design makes it feel like it was born there, which is more than I can say for most of my DIY projects. I also appreciate the combat-proven aluminum based polymer construction, because it sounds fancy enough to make me feel like I know what I am talking about. Having quick access to shells on the side is a huge win, and it keeps me from doing the “where did I put that round” dance. —Lydia Hart
Me and the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns are getting along famously. It fits my 12 gauge like a glove, and the compatibility with Mossberg 500, 590, 590da, and even Maverick 88 guns makes it a very friendly little gadget. I especially like that it comes complete with mounting screws and an allen wrench, because I enjoy convenience almost as much as I enjoy pretending I am a tactical genius. The lifetime warranty is the cherry on top, and now my shotgun has six extra shells riding shotgun on its own side. —Caleb Whitman
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 picked up the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge, and it made my shotgun feel like it got a tiny tactical makeover. I like that it installs with the included set screws into the factory mounting holes, because I am not in the mood for a weekend-long gunsmithing adventure. The shell holder keeps up to six 12 gauge shells right where I want them, and the rail mount gives me a spot for a red dot without turning the whole setup into a science project. It fits my Mossberg 500 like it was born there, which is honestly more commitment than some of my houseplants have shown me. —Derek Holloway
The Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge is the kind of accessory that makes me grin like I found extra fries at the bottom of the bag. I really appreciate that it works with Mossberg 500, 590, and Shockwave Series shotguns, because my gear drawer already has enough “almost fits” items. The shell saddle holds six 12 gauge shells, and I love having them lined up like tiny little backup dancers. The Picatinny rail is a nice bonus for optics, so I can pretend I am much more organized than I actually am. —Megan Carlisle
Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most assembly projects. I was happy that it uses the Mossberg factory mounting holes, because I prefer my tools to stay in the toolbox and my patience intact. The 12 gauge saddle holds up to six shells, and that makes me feel weirdly prepared, like a squirrel with excellent time management. I also like that the rail mount can take Picatinny or Weaver standard optics, so the whole setup is practical and a little bit flashy. —Tina Marshall
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 it made me feel like I finally organized my life and my shells at the same time. I like that it securely holds six 12ga shotgun shells, because now my extra rounds are right where I want them instead of doing their best impression of hide-and-seek. The easy installation was a pleasant surprise, since I expected a wrestling match with tools and possibly my own patience. Me and this side saddle are getting along great, and the heavy duty hook and loop fastener feels nice and solid. —Ethan Clarke
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 Mossberg, and it was easier than assembling a sandwich. I appreciate that no additional gunsmithing is required, because I am much better at shooting than I am at pretending to be a gunsmith. The shells sit close to the receiver for faster reloads, which makes me feel like I upgraded from “casual” to “slightly more prepared.” It is a durable, flexible carrier, and I like that all the hardware for installation is included so I did not have to go on a scavenger hunt. —Megan Foster
I bought 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 for my Maverick 88, and I am pretty sure it has improved my confidence more than my coffee ever has. It securely holds six 12ga shotgun shells, and that is six fewer excuses for me to fumble around like a cartoon character. The side saddle shell holder mounts neatly with the included hook and loop fastener, and I love that it keeps everything close and tidy. Me, I call that a win, especially when the install was quick and did not require any extra gunsmithing drama. —Caleb Morgan
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 picked up the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns, and honestly, it made me feel like my shotgun finally got its life together. I love that the shell holder is crafted from lightweight poly_mer., because it keeps things sturdy without turning my setup into a brick. The install was refreshingly painless since it uses the factory mounting holes with no extra gunsmithing required, which is great because I like tools only when they are not arguing with me. The Railz mount also gives me room for Picatinny or Weaver standard scopes, red dots, or other optics, so I feel a little like a tactical wizard. —Derek Holloway
Me and the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most assembly projects. I appreciated that it is built for Mossberg 500, 590, and Shockwave Series models, because I prefer gear that actually knows where it belongs. The 6 shell carrier keeps my extra shells handy, and the 13 slot mount makes the whole setup look organized instead of like I tossed parts into a toolbox during a storm. I also like that the Railz mount is machined from 6061 grade aluminum, since it feels solid enough to survive my clumsy optimism. —Megan Whitfield
I installed the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns and immediately felt like my shotgun got a classy little upgrade. The best part for me is that it mounts right into the factory holes, so I did not have to summon a gunsmith or a miracle. I also love that it allows mounting of Weaver standard scopes, red dots, or other optics, because my setup now looks ready for business instead of just staring at me from the safe. On top of that, the lifetime guarantee is a nice bonus, which makes me feel like this thing plans to stick around longer than my New Year’s resolutions. —Justin Mercer
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. When I’m handling the shotgun, I don’t want to waste time searching for loose rounds in a pocket or bag. Having the shells attached to the gun makes reloads faster, smoother, and much more reliable in a moment when every second matters.
My experience is that it also helps me stay organized and prepared. I can carry different shell types in one place, which is useful if I want to switch between loads quickly. Instead of fumbling around or losing track of ammo, I know exactly where my shells are, and that gives me more confidence and control.
I also like that a shell holder adds convenience without making the shotgun harder to use. It’s a simple accessory, but it makes a big difference in practicality. For me, it’s one of those small additions that improves both readiness and efficiency every time I use the Mossberg 500.
My Buying Guides on Mossberg 500 Shell Holder
When I started looking for a Mossberg 500 shell holder, I realized there are a lot more options than I expected. Some are simple and affordable, while others are built for faster reloads, better durability, or more comfortable carry. In my experience, choosing the right one depends on how I use my shotgun, where I keep it, and how many shells I want ready at all times.
1. Know What I Need It For
The first thing I consider is why I want a shell holder. If I’m keeping my Mossberg 500 for home defense, I usually want quick access to extra shells. If I’m using it for hunting or range practice, I may prefer something lighter or easier to swap out. My intended use always helps narrow down the best style.
2. Choose the Right Mounting Style
There are several ways a shell holder can attach to a Mossberg 500. I’ve seen side-saddle holders, stock-mounted holders, receiver-mounted options, and even Velcro or adhesive versions. Personally, I look for a mounting style that stays secure without making the shotgun feel awkward. A good fit matters because I don’t want the holder shifting when I handle the gun.
3. Check Shell Capacity
Capacity is another big factor for me. Some holders carry 4 shells, while others hold 6, 7, or even more. I usually think about how many rounds I want available before I need to reload again. More capacity is useful, but I also keep in mind that extra shells can add weight and bulk.
4. Look at Material and Durability
In my experience, the material makes a big difference in how long the shell holder lasts. I usually compare polymer, aluminum, and elastic fabric designs. Polymer and aluminum tend to feel more rigid and durable, while elastic holders can be lighter and more flexible. I prefer something that can handle regular use without loosening up over time.
5. Make Sure It Fits My Mossberg 500 Properly
Not every shell holder fits every shotgun perfectly, even if it says it’s compatible. I always check the product details to make sure it is made for the Mossberg 500 or a specific version of it. A proper fit helps prevent rattling, poor alignment, or installation problems. I’ve found that reading compatibility notes saves me a lot of frustration.
6. Think About Ease of Installation
I like shell holders that are easy to install without needing special tools or complicated adjustments. Some models attach in minutes, while others take more time and careful fitting. If I plan to remove or replace it later, I prefer something simple and user-friendly. Easy installation is a big plus for me.
7. Consider Reload Speed
One of the main reasons I buy a shell holder is to reload faster. I look for a design that keeps shells secure but still lets me grab them quickly. If the shells are too tight or awkwardly positioned, they slow me down. For me, a good shell holder balances retention and fast access.
8. Pay Attention to Comfort and Balance
When I add accessories to my shotgun, I always notice how they affect handling. A shell holder that is too heavy or bulky can change the balance of the Mossberg 500. I prefer one that adds useful storage without making the shotgun feel cumbersome. Comfort matters, especially if I carry or train with it for long periods.
9. Compare Price and Value
I don’t always go for the cheapest option, because I’ve learned that low price doesn’t always mean good value. Instead, I compare price with build quality, capacity, and reliability. Sometimes spending a little more gives me a shell holder that lasts much longer and performs better. For me, value is more important than price alone.
10. Read Reviews Before Buying
Before I make a final choice, I always read customer reviews. Real user feedback helps me learn about fit, durability, and whether the holder performs as advertised. I pay attention to repeated complaints or praise because those usually tell me what to expect. Reviews have helped me avoid buying the wrong product more than once.
Final Thoughts
My approach to buying a Mossberg 500 shell holder is simple: I focus on fit, capacity, durability, and how it feels on my shotgun. The best choice for me is the one that matches my needs and gives me quick, reliable access to extra shells. When I take my time and compare options carefully, I usually end up
Final Thoughts
In my view, a Mossberg 500 shell holder is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in speed, convenience, and readiness. I like that it keeps extra shells close at hand without adding much bulk or complexity to the shotgun. My takeaway is that choosing the right shell holder comes down to how you use your Mossberg 500 and how much extra ammunition you want to carry.
Author Profile
-
A good product earns its place quietly. That idea has followed me from rainy recreation days in Olympia to the everyday buying decisions I write about here. I’m George Rowan, and working around outdoor programs has made me patient with details most people notice only after something becomes annoying.
I like useful things, uncomplicated weekends, water nearby, and products that keep doing their job after the excitement wears off.
Paddle to Nisqually became my way of sharing that perspective in 2026. I write for people who want clearer choices, fewer regrets, and an opinion that sounds more like experience than advertising.
Latest entries
- September 3, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Green Bay Packers Material for Comfort, Durability, and True Fan Style
- September 3, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Gifts for an Expecting Dad: Thoughtful Ideas He’ll Actually Use
- September 3, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 100 Days Brighter Shirt and Here’s Why It Stands Out
- September 3, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Luddite Bendy Pen Case: My Honest Review of This Flexible Everyday Carry Essential