Let’s Talk About Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder
The Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder is a practical accessory designed to keep your extra shotgun shells readily accessible. Crafted by Monstrum, this shell holder mounts directly to your Mossberg 500 or 590 series shotgun, providing a convenient and reliable way to carry additional ammunition. It promises easy installation, ambidextrous compatibility, and a Picatinny rail for accessory mounting, making it a versatile addition to your tactical or hunting setup.
For years, I’ve struggled with bulky vests and cumbersome shell carriers that hindered my movement and slowed down my reloads in the field. I needed a streamlined solution that kept my extra shells within easy reach without adding unnecessary weight or bulk to my shotgun. The Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder appeared to be the answer.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and simple design. The shell holder felt solid and well-made, with a durable finish that suggested it could withstand the rigors of heavy use. Its lightweight nature was a welcome surprise, alleviating my concerns about added weight.
Compared to similar side-mounted shell holders from brands like TacStar and Mesa Tactical, the Monstrum stood out due to its integrated Picatinny rail and more budget-friendly price point. While the TacStar offers a similar capacity, it lacks the Picatinny rail. The Mesa Tactical is known for its premium construction, but it comes at a significantly higher cost.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder looked promising, but its true test would be in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder at my local shooting range, focusing on speed drills and target acquisition. I specifically used my Mossberg 500 for the testing. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze.
The shell holder performed admirably, keeping the shells securely in place even during rapid firing and movement. Reloading was significantly faster and smoother than using my old vest, providing a noticeable improvement in my overall shooting efficiency. I found the shells were easily accessible.
The only initial issue I encountered was the tightness of the shell retention. It took a bit of effort to initially insert and remove the shells. After a little use, it became easier to access the shells.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder has proven to be a reliable and durable accessory. There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The finish has held up well, resisting scratches and corrosion.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is sufficient to keep it clean and functional. The shell holder has consistently outperformed my expectations, providing a secure and readily accessible source of extra ammunition.
Compared to my previous experiences with other shell-carrying methods, the Monstrum offers a significant improvement in terms of speed, convenience, and overall shooting experience. I can’t imagine going back to my old setup.
Breaking Down the Features of Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder
Specifications
- Capacity: Holds up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, providing ample backup ammunition for various shooting scenarios. This capacity strikes a good balance between carrying enough shells and keeping the overall profile streamlined.
- Mount: Attaches directly to Mossberg 500 and 590 series shotguns via factory mounting holes, ensuring a secure and stable fit. The direct mounting eliminates the need for complicated modifications or gunsmithing.
- Material: Constructed from durable polymer, offering a lightweight yet rugged design that can withstand harsh conditions. This material choice contributes to the shell holder’s longevity.
- Rail: Features an integrated Picatinny rail, allowing for the attachment of accessories such as lights, lasers, or optics. This adds versatility to your shotgun setup.
- Design: Ambidextrous design allows for installation on either side of the stock, catering to both right- and left-handed shooters. This design consideration enhances user comfort and adaptability.
- Compatibility: Compatible with Mossberg Shockwave, 535, 835, and 590a1 models, broadening its applicability to a wider range of shotguns. This expanded compatibility makes it a valuable accessory for many shotgun owners.
Performance & Functionality
The Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder excels at providing quick and easy access to spare ammunition. The shells are held securely in place, preventing them from falling out during movement or recoil. Reloading is noticeably faster and more efficient compared to traditional shell carriers.
Its main strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. However, the initial tightness of the shell retention could be improved. The shell holder meets and exceeds expectations for a product in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder boasts a well-thought-out design and robust build quality. The polymer construction feels solid and durable, while remaining lightweight and comfortable to handle. The shell holder is remarkably user-friendly, requiring no special tools or expertise for installation.
The shell holder is designed with ease of use in mind. It does not require additional tools for installation if your Mossberg already has the factory mounting holes.
Durability & Maintenance
The durable polymer construction ensures that the Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder is built to last. The shell holder shows no signs of weakening or degradation after months of regular use. Maintenance is minimal.
Wiping it down with a damp cloth after use is all that’s generally needed to keep it in good working order. With proper care, the Monstrum should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder includes the necessary mounting hardware for installation. Its integrated Picatinny rail allows for the attachment of various accessories. It is compatible with standard Picatinny-mounted lights, lasers, and small optics.
Aftermarket cheek risers may be required for comfortable use of optics mounted on the Picatinny rail, depending on the optic. I have added a small flashlight to the rail for home defense.
Pros and Cons of Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder
Pros
- Easy Installation: Installs quickly and easily using factory mounting holes on Mossberg 500 and 590 series shotguns. This saves time and eliminates the need for gunsmithing.
- Ambidextrous Design: Accommodates both right- and left-handed shooters, enhancing user comfort and versatility. The ambidextrous design ensures it suits a wide range of users.
- Integrated Picatinny Rail: Provides a convenient platform for mounting accessories such as lights, lasers, or optics. This increases the overall functionality of your shotgun.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality polymer, ensuring long-lasting durability and resistance to wear and tear. It holds up well under heavy use.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money compared to other side-mounted shell holders with similar features. The price point makes it accessible to a wider range of users.
Cons
- Initial Shell Retention: The shell retention is tight when new, requiring some break-in period for optimal ease of use. After using the shell holder, the retention becomes easier.
- Screw Length: Pre-1997 models may require different screws. It would be helpful if Monstrum included these additional screws.
Who Should Buy Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder?
Perfect for: Home defense enthusiasts, hunters, tactical shooters, and anyone looking to improve their shotgun’s reloading speed and carrying capacity. It adds a practical and reliable way to carry extra ammunition.
Who should skip this product? Those seeking a purely aesthetic upgrade or those who prefer carrying shells in a vest or belt-mounted system. If you are looking for a fancy-looking shell holder, this may not be the item for you.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A small tactical flashlight to mount on the Picatinny rail for low-light situations and potentially a cheek riser depending on optic choices.
Conclusion on Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder
The Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder is a practical, durable, and affordable accessory that significantly enhances the functionality of Mossberg 500 and 590 series shotguns. It offers a convenient and reliable way to carry extra ammunition, improving reloading speed and overall shooting efficiency. The integrated Picatinny rail adds versatility, while its durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance.
The price is definitely justified. The Monstrum Side Mounted 12 Gauge Shell Holder provides a great value.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone seeking a cost-effective and reliable upgrade for their shotgun. Don’t wait—add this essential accessory to your arsenal today!