First Impressions of Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier
The Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier promises a simple, streamlined solution for carrying extra shotgun shells directly on your firearm. As someone who’s spent years in the field and on the range, I’ve seen countless methods for keeping extra rounds handy, from bulky vests to cumbersome belt-mounted carriers. I was intrigued by the Allen Company’s approach: a minimalist, silicone band designed to attach directly to the buttstock.
My need stemmed from a recent pheasant hunting trip where fumbling for shells in my vest pocket cost me a clean shot. I was searching for a quick, accessible, and unobtrusive way to carry a few extra rounds without adding significant weight or bulk to my shotgun. My initial thought was, “Can something this simple actually be reliable?”
Unboxing the Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. The flexible silicone band felt robust, and the elastic shell loops seemed securely stitched. The black and gray color scheme is practical and unassuming. Compared to more elaborate carriers I’ve used, like those incorporating rigid plastic or heavy nylon, this felt refreshingly minimal. I considered a traditional leather stock sleeve with shell loops, but the Allen offering’s low profile and ease of installation won me over. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the design is clever, but the real test would be its performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier came during a dove hunt on a particularly dusty, early-season afternoon. I attached it to the buttstock of my 12-gauge Beretta, loaded it with three shells, and headed out. The band slid on easily and felt surprisingly secure.
Throughout the afternoon, I found the shells readily accessible, making reloads significantly faster than digging through my game bag. The carrier stayed firmly in place, even after repeated firing. However, the elastic loops initially felt a bit tight, requiring a firm pull to remove the shells.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a duck hunting trip in damp conditions, the Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier has held up surprisingly well. There are no visible signs of wear or tear on the silicone band or the elastic loops, which is impressive. It’s worth noting that consistently loading and unloading shells has slightly loosened the loops, making shell retrieval smoother.
The carrier is incredibly easy to clean; a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes any mud or debris. Compared to a previous nylon shell holder I used, which required extensive scrubbing after getting wet, the Allen carrier is a breeze to maintain. Overall, its performance has exceeded my initial expectations, proving that sometimes the simplest designs are the most effective.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier
Specifications
The Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier is designed to hold up to three 12-gauge shotgun shells. It uses a flexible silicone band for attachment to the buttstock. The carrier is a universal fit, intended to work with most shotgun stock sizes. It features a single vertical row of elastic cartridge loops. These loops are sized to accommodate 20-gauge to 12-gauge shotgun shells. The product is black and gray.
These specifications are critical for understanding its intended use. The universal fit makes it a versatile option for various shotgun owners. The ability to hold different gauge shells is a bonus for those who use multiple shotguns or share the carrier.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier performs its primary function – holding shotgun shells – effectively and efficiently. The shells are held securely and are readily accessible for quick reloads. The design’s strength lies in its simplicity; there are no moving parts to fail.
The main weakness is the initial tightness of the elastic loops, which can make shell removal a bit stiff at first. However, this improves with use. Overall, it meets its core expectations of providing a readily accessible and secure shell-carrying solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent, especially considering the price point. The silicone band is flexible yet durable. The elastic loops are adequately stitched and show no signs of fraying.
The carrier’s user-friendliness is exceptional. It takes seconds to attach to a buttstock, and the low-profile design doesn’t interfere with shouldering the weapon. There is virtually no learning curve; it’s intuitive and straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials used and the simplicity of the design, the Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier should last for several seasons with proper care. Silicone is resistant to weathering and cracking, providing it is not exposed to extreme temperatures or prolonged direct sunlight. Cleaning is simple.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier does not come with any accessories. However, its simple design doesn’t necessarily require any. Since it’s a universal design, customization is limited to choosing the position on the buttstock where it’s most comfortable for the user. While there are no direct accessories, its simplicity means it doesn’t clash with other additions to your shotgun.
Pros and Cons of Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier
Pros
- Low profile and lightweight: Adds minimal bulk and weight to the shotgun.
- Easy to install and remove: The silicone band makes attachment quick and simple.
- Secure shell retention: Holds shells firmly in place, even during recoil.
- Versatile gauge compatibility: Accommodates 20-gauge to 12-gauge shells.
- Durable silicone construction: Resistant to weather and wear.
Cons
- Tight elastic loops initially make shell removal difficult.
- Only holds three shells, limiting capacity for extended shooting sessions.
Who Should Buy Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier?
The Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier is perfect for hunters, especially those who prefer a minimalist approach to gear. It’s also well-suited for recreational shooters who want to keep a few extra rounds handy at the range. This is a great choice for anyone wanting to avoid bulky vests or belt carriers.
This product might not be ideal for competitive shooters needing a high-capacity, rapid-reload system. It’s also not the best choice for those requiring specialized carrying solutions for specific shotgun models. For those who desire more capacity, a full stock sleeve is probably a better purchase.
A must-have addition would be a good quality shotgun cleaning kit to maintain the firearm’s performance after use with readily accessible shells.
Conclusion on Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier
The Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier is a surprisingly effective and affordable solution for carrying extra shotgun shells. Its simple, minimalist design is both its strength and its weakness. It does exactly what it promises, providing a secure and accessible way to carry three extra shells without adding unnecessary bulk or weight to your shotgun.
At $11.49, the price is definitely justified. It’s an excellent value for the convenience and reliability it offers. I would personally recommend the Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier to any hunter or recreational shooter looking for a simple, unobtrusive way to carry extra shells. Don’t let its simplicity fool you; this little carrier can make a significant difference in the field. Grab an Allen Next Shot Shotgun Shell Carrier and experience the convenience for yourself!