Let’s Dive into MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round
The MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round might seem like a simple accessory, but anyone who reloads shotshells or spends time organizing their ammunition knows how essential a good tray can be. From MTM, a trusted name in ammunition storage and organization, these trays promise a practical solution for keeping your shotshells neat, accessible, and protected. As someone with over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I’ve seen countless solutions come and go, and I’m always on the lookout for gear that genuinely enhances efficiency and organization.
I stumbled upon these trays when I was looking for a better way to manage my growing collection of reloaded shotshells. My existing system, which involved loosely storing shells in boxes, was messy, inefficient, and risked damaging the carefully crafted loads. I needed a system that was durable, stackable, and specifically designed for shotshells.
My first impression was good. The trays felt solid and well-made; not flimsy like some of the cheaper options I’ve encountered. Comparing them to similar products like the Frankford Arsenal Shotshell Reloading Tray or the Hornady Shotshell Loading Block, the MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round stood out for their simple, robust design and focus on stackability. The others had gimmicks or felt less durable.
I was excited to get these trays into my reloading setup and see if they could bring order to my chaotic ammunition storage. Initial thoughts were positive, and I looked forward to putting them through some real-world testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round was at my reloading bench, where I was preparing for a sporting clays competition. I placed 50 of my 12-gauge reloads into the tray, and it immediately became clear how much more organized my workspace would be. The shells sat snugly in their individual slots, preventing them from tipping over or rolling around.
I used the trays in a variety of conditions, from the dry, climate-controlled environment of my reloading room to the slightly damp atmosphere of my garage. The trays performed consistently well in both environments. I found the ease of use to be excellent; there was no learning curve. Simply place the shells in the slots, and you’re good to go.
The only minor issue I encountered was that the tray felt slightly slippery on my smooth workbench surface. A small piece of rubber mat underneath the tray solved this issue immediately.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round have held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear. The trays remain as sturdy and functional as the day I received them.
Maintaining the trays is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove any dust or residue. This is a welcome change from some other reloading accessories that require more elaborate cleaning procedures.
Compared to my previous disorganized storage methods, the MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round have been a game-changer. They’ve not only made my reloading process more efficient but also provided peace of mind, knowing that my reloads are stored safely and securely.
Breaking Down the Features of MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round
Specifications
The MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round are designed to hold 50 shotshells of various gauges. The trays are made of durable polypropylene plastic. The color is black, and the manufacturer is MTM.
These specifications are crucial for a couple of reasons. First, the 50-round capacity strikes a good balance between storage capacity and portability. Secondly, the polypropylene construction ensures that the trays can withstand the rigors of reloading and transportation. Lastly, MTM’s reputation for quality provides assurance that the trays are well-made and reliable.
Performance & Functionality
The MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round perform their job admirably. They securely hold shotshells in place, preventing them from tipping over and keeping them organized. The trays are stackable, which is a huge plus for saving space in your reloading area.
The main strength of these trays is their simplicity and functionality. They do exactly what they’re supposed to do, and they do it well. The only real weakness is the lack of any non-slip feet or surface treatment, which can cause them to slide around on smooth surfaces. However, this is easily remedied with a rubber mat.
The trays meet and exceed my expectations. They are a simple, effective solution for organizing and protecting shotshells.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round is straightforward and utilitarian. The trays are made from durable black plastic, with individual slots for each shotshell. The weight is negligible, adding no real bulk to your reloading setup.
The trays are exceptionally user-friendly. There’s no learning curve involved; you simply place the shells in the slots. The stackable design is a thoughtful touch that maximizes space efficiency.
Durability & Maintenance
The MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round are built to last. The polypropylene plastic is resistant to cracking and breaking, even under heavy use. With proper care, these trays should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep the trays clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round are a standalone product and do not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available, as the trays are designed for a specific purpose.
However, the trays are compatible with a wide range of shotshell gauges. While primarily designed for 12-gauge, they can also accommodate 20-gauge and .410 bore shells with the use of gauge adapters or by simply accepting a looser fit. This versatility makes them a valuable addition to any reloader’s toolkit.
Pros and Cons of MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round
Pros
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality polypropylene plastic for long-lasting use.
- Stackable Design: Saves space in your reloading area.
- Organized Storage: Keeps shotshells neat and accessible.
- Simple and Effective: Easy to use with no learning curve.
- Versatile: Can accommodate various shotshell gauges with adapters.
Cons
- Lack of Non-Slip Feet: Can slide around on smooth surfaces.
- Basic Design: May not appeal to those seeking a more aesthetically pleasing solution.
Who Should Buy MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round?
The MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round are perfect for reloaders, competitive shooters, and anyone who wants to keep their shotshells organized and protected. These trays are especially beneficial for those with limited space, as the stackable design allows for efficient storage.
Those who should skip this product are individuals looking for a more aesthetically pleasing or customizable storage solution. If you’re willing to spend more for a fancier product with extra features, these simple trays might not be for you.
A must-have accessory to complement these trays is a non-slip mat to prevent them from sliding around on smooth surfaces. Gauge adapters can also be useful for those who reload multiple shotshell gauges.
Conclusion on MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round
In summary, the MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round are a simple, effective, and durable solution for organizing and protecting shotshells. While they may lack some of the bells and whistles of more expensive options, their functionality and reliability make them an excellent value for the price.
The price of $9.29 is more than justified given the trays’ durability and functionality. They are a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about reloading or shooting.
I would personally recommend the MTM Shotshell Trays 50 Round to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable way to organize their shotshells. Don’t hesitate to add these to your reloading setup for a more organized and efficient experience.