Let’s Dive into GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve handled countless shotgun accessories, but the GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder immediately caught my eye with its innovative design and reputation for ruggedness. This isn’t just another shell holder; it promises a streamlined reloading experience and unwavering durability, qualities essential for any serious shotgun user. I needed a reliable way to carry extra rounds on my Mossberg 590 for home defense and training scenarios, and the GG&G seemed like the ideal solution.
The moment I unboxed the GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder, I was impressed. The aluminum construction felt incredibly solid, and the black anodized finish gave it a professional, no-nonsense look. The design seemed well-thought-out, with the angled shell placement hinting at faster reloads.
I considered shell holders from Mesa Tactical and TacStar, both reputable brands. However, I chose the GG&G due to the user reviews highlighting the angled shell presentation, which promised a significant speed advantage when reloading. My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; the GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder looked and felt like a premium piece of kit.
Real-World Testing: Putting GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder at my local shooting range during a shotgun training session. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions to assess its performance. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of my time.
The angled shell placement made a noticeable difference in reloading speed, especially when loading the magazine tube. I experienced no issues with shell retention, and the shells remained securely in place even during rapid-fire drills. After the first use, I was impressed with the secure fit and the enhanced reloading speed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder has proven to be incredibly durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to rough handling and exposure to various weather conditions. Cleaning and maintenance are simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to other shell holders I’ve used, the GG&G surpasses them in both durability and ease of use. The GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder continues to perform flawlessly, exceeding my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder
Specifications
The GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder is designed for 12 gauge shotguns and comes in both 4-round (Model 1512) and 6-round (Model 1515) configurations. It is constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum with a Type III hard anodized black finish per Mil-Spec. This ensures exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion.
The side saddle mounts to the receiver using steel trigger pin and ejector replacement bolts. This eliminates the need for any permanent modifications to the shotgun. It weighs approximately 5.5 oz and adds about 6.5 inches in length to the shotgun. The 15-degree angle facilitates easy bottom loading of the magazine tube and top loading of the chamber.
Performance & Functionality
The GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder performs its job flawlessly, providing quick and reliable access to extra ammunition. The angled shell presentation significantly enhances reloading speed, which is critical in tactical situations. The oil-resistant, replaceable shotshell retention system ensures that shells are securely held in place, preventing accidental dislodgement.
One minor weakness is that the shell retention can be quite tight initially, requiring a bit of force to remove the shells. With use, the retention loosens slightly, striking a balance between security and accessibility. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations, delivering superior performance in real-world scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder boasts a sleek and ergonomic design. The 6061-T6 aluminum construction feels solid and durable, yet remains lightweight, preventing unnecessary bulk to the shotgun. The weight distribution is well-balanced, and it does not interfere with the shotgun’s handling characteristics.
The installation process is straightforward, and the included hardware is of high quality. There is a slight learning curve associated with the shell retention tension, but it becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder is built to last. The Type III hard anodized finish provides excellent resistance to scratches, abrasion, and corrosion. The replaceable shotshell retention system ensures that the side saddle can be easily maintained and repaired if necessary.
With proper care, this side saddle should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the retention system will keep it in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder does not come with additional accessories beyond the necessary mounting hardware. The shotshell retention system is replaceable, allowing users to adjust the tension to their preference. It is compatible with most standard 12 gauge ammunition and does not interfere with the use of other accessories such as slings or lights.
The ability to replace the shell retention system is a significant advantage, allowing users to customize the side saddle to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder
Pros
- Significantly enhances reloading speed due to the angled shell presentation.
- Incredibly durable construction using 6061-T6 aluminum with a Type III hard anodized finish.
- Easy to install with no permanent modifications required.
- Replaceable shotshell retention system for customizable tension.
- Securely holds shells in place, preventing accidental dislodgement.
Cons
- Shell retention can be tight initially, requiring some force to remove shells.
- Relatively expensive compared to some other shell holder options.
Who Should Buy GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder?
The GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder is perfect for home defense enthusiasts, tactical shooters, and law enforcement professionals who rely on their shotguns in high-pressure situations. It is also ideal for hunters who want to carry extra rounds conveniently and securely. Individuals looking for a budget-friendly option might want to consider alternatives.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality shotgun sling to help manage the added weight of the shells. No modifications are necessarily required, but some users may prefer to adjust the shotshell retention system to suit their individual preferences.
Conclusion on GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder
In summary, the GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder is a top-tier accessory that delivers exceptional performance and durability. The angled shell presentation provides a significant advantage in reloading speed, making it a valuable addition to any Mossberg 500 or 590 shotgun. The price is justified by the quality of materials, thoughtful design, and enhanced functionality.
I would highly recommend the GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder to anyone seeking a reliable and efficient way to carry extra shotgun ammunition. Invest in the GG&G Mossberg 500 & 590 Side Saddle Shell Holder today and experience the difference it makes in your shotgun handling and readiness!