Let’s Dive into GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder
The GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder is a must-have accessory for any serious shotgun enthusiast looking to enhance their firearm’s tactical capabilities. Manufactured by GG&G, a reputable name in the firearms accessory industry, this side saddle offers a practical and efficient way to carry extra ammunition directly on your Mossberg 930. It provides quick access to your shells, improving reload times and overall preparedness in any situation.
My journey to acquiring the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder stemmed from a desire to optimize my home defense setup. I needed a reliable and accessible way to keep extra ammunition readily available without cumbersome pouches or vests. The promise of faster reloads and increased readiness was simply too compelling to ignore.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the robust construction and sleek design of the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder. The aluminum felt solid and well-machined, hinting at its durability. The black anodized finish gave it a professional and tactical appearance, seamlessly blending with the aesthetics of my Mossberg 930.
I considered other side saddles, including models from Mesa Tactical and TacStar. However, the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder’s unique 15-degree angle for shell presentation, combined with GG&G’s reputation for quality, ultimately swayed my decision. This feature promised to streamline the reloading process, making it faster and more intuitive.
My first impression was one of excitement tempered with a hint of skepticism, as I hoped the design would live up to the claims of improved reload speed and reliability. The GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder appeared to be a thoughtfully engineered piece of equipment, and I was eager to put it to the test and see how it performed in practical scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder took place at my local shooting range. I focused on familiarizing myself with the reloading process. The 15-degree angle, as advertised, made retrieving and loading shells significantly easier than traditional vertical shell holders.
I tested the side saddle in both dry and slightly damp conditions, simulating potential weather scenarios. Even with moderately wet hands, I found the shell retention system to be reliable, securely holding the shells in place. I did experience a slight learning curve in adjusting my grip and reloading technique.
The only minor issue I encountered during the first use was a slight stiffness in shell retention, requiring a deliberate effort to remove shells initially. However, this quickly resolved as the rubber retention system broke in with repeated use. Overall, the first experience was positive, instilling confidence in the side saddle’s potential.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable accessory. It has held up admirably to the rigors of frequent range trips and simulated tactical drills. I observed only minimal wear on the finish.
Despite repeated exposure to cleaning solvents and lubricants, the oil-resistant shell holder shows no signs of degradation or softening. The shell retention system remains robust and reliable, securely holding the shells even under heavy recoil and rapid firing. Cleaning the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a clean cloth.
Compared to other side saddles I’ve used in the past, the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder stands out for its superior build quality, secure shell retention, and intelligently designed angle for quick reloads. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability, becoming an indispensable part of my Mossberg 930 setup.
Breaking Down the Features of GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder
Specifications
The GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder is available in two configurations: a 4-shot model weighing 3.4 oz with an overall length of 4.5 inches, and a 6-shot model weighing 5.5 oz with an overall length of 6.5 inches. Both models are designed to hold 12-gauge ammunition. The body of the side saddle is precision-machined from 6061 T-6 aluminum, known for its strength and lightweight properties.
The GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder also features a non-marring backing plate to protect the receiver’s finish, with a cutout to allow viewing of the weapon’s serial number. It uses steel trigger pin replacement bolts for secure mounting. The unique 15-degree angle is a standout feature designed for faster bottom loading of the magazine tube or top loading of the chamber.
Performance & Functionality
The GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder significantly enhances the functionality of the Mossberg 930 by providing immediate access to extra ammunition. The 15-degree angle truly streamlines the reloading process, enabling faster and more efficient reloads in dynamic shooting scenarios. The oil-resistant, replaceable shotshell retention system holds shells securely.
The main strength of this side saddle lies in its ability to improve reload speed and reduce downtime during critical situations. However, one potential weakness is that the initial shell retention can be a bit tight, requiring some break-in time. Overall, the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder meets and exceeds expectations by delivering a well-designed, reliable, and functional upgrade to the Mossberg 930.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder is exceptional, reflecting GG&G’s commitment to quality and durability. The 6061 T-6 aluminum construction ensures a robust yet lightweight design. Rounded edges and lightning cuts contribute to a comfortable and ergonomic design, preventing snagging and minimizing added weight.
The GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder mounts securely to the receiver using the provided steel trigger pin replacement bolts, providing a stable platform for carrying extra ammunition. The non-marring backing plate prevents damage to the receiver’s finish. It offers a user-friendly design that requires no modifications to the weapon for installation.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the rugged construction and high-quality materials used, the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder is expected to last for many years under normal use. The Type III hard anodized black finish per mil-spec provides excellent resistance to scratches, corrosion, and wear. With regular cleaning and proper care, the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder should maintain its functionality and appearance for the long term.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a mild solvent and lubrication of the shell retention system. The replaceable shotshell retention system ensures that the side saddle can be easily repaired or refreshed if needed, further extending its lifespan. The durable construction and ease of maintenance make the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder a valuable and long-lasting addition to any Mossberg 930.
Accessories and Customization Options
The GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options beyond the choice between 4-shot and 6-shot models. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories designed for the Mossberg 930, such as slings, lights, and optics. The ability to easily attach these accessories enhances the overall versatility and tactical capabilities of the shotgun.
While no additional accessories are included with the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder itself, it seamlessly integrates with other GG&G products, like their sling attachments and Picatinny rails, allowing for a fully customized and optimized tactical setup. The replaceable shotshell retention system can be considered a customization option. This allows users to replace worn or damaged components without replacing the entire side saddle.
Pros and Cons of GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder
Pros
- Increases reload speed thanks to the unique 15-degree angle, facilitating quicker access to ammunition.
- Durable construction using 6061 T-6 aluminum ensures long-lasting performance.
- Secure shell retention keeps ammunition firmly in place even under heavy recoil.
- Easy installation with no modifications required to the Mossberg 930.
- Non-marring backing plate protects the receiver’s finish from damage.
Cons
- Initial shell retention can be slightly stiff, requiring some break-in.
- Relatively higher price compared to some competing side saddle models.
Who Should Buy GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder?
The GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder is perfect for home defense enthusiasts, tactical shooters, and law enforcement professionals. These individuals require quick and reliable access to additional ammunition. Anyone who uses their Mossberg 930 for competitions or tactical training exercises will also find this accessory invaluable.
Individuals who prioritize budget over premium quality or those who only casually use their shotgun may want to consider a less expensive alternative. Users who prefer minimalist setups and don’t require additional ammunition capacity may also find this accessory unnecessary. A must-have accessory or modification would be a high-quality sling to manage the added weight of the side saddle and ammunition.
Conclusion on GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder
The GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder is a well-engineered and highly functional accessory that significantly enhances the tactical capabilities of the Mossberg 930 shotgun. Its durable construction, secure shell retention, and unique 15-degree angle for faster reloads make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. The price is justified given the quality and performance it offers.
I would highly recommend the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder to anyone looking to improve their reload speed and overall preparedness with their Mossberg 930. It’s a reliable, durable, and intelligently designed product that will undoubtedly enhance your shooting experience. Upgrade your Mossberg 930 today with the GG&G Mossberg 930 Side Saddle Shell Holder and experience the difference!