MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA Review

First Thoughts on the MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA

The MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA from Mesa Tactical is a game-changer for Remington 870 owners. It combines a rock-solid side saddle shell carrier with a Picatinny rail, allowing for easy mounting of optics and accessories while keeping extra rounds readily accessible. I was immediately intrigued by its potential to modernize my trusted 870 and enhance its versatility.

I’d been searching for a way to add a red dot sight to my shotgun without compromising its reliability or adding excessive bulk. Several options existed, but many felt flimsy or didn’t offer a convenient way to carry extra ammunition. The MESA SADDLERAIL appeared to solve both problems simultaneously.

Upon unboxing, the MESA SADDLERAIL immediately impressed me with its robust construction and clean finish. The black anodized aluminum felt incredibly durable, and the shell holders were firm and secure. The rail was perfectly aligned and ready for optic mounting. It felt like a serious piece of kit, not a cheap add-on.

I considered several other side saddle and rail combinations before settling on the MESA SADDLERAIL. Many cheaper options felt flimsy or had questionable reviews regarding their ability to hold zero after repeated recoil. Some only offered a side saddle or a rail, not both. The MESA SADDLERAIL’s reputation for quality and its integrated design convinced me it was the right choice.

My first impression was one of excitement mixed with anticipation. I was eager to install it on my 870 Police Magnum and see how it performed at the range. The quality of construction and the intelligent design suggested it would be a worthwhile upgrade.

Real-World Testing: Putting MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range trip with the MESA SADDLERAIL was an eye-opener. I installed it on my Remington 870 Police Magnum in under 15 minutes using basic tools. The fit was perfect, requiring no modifications to the shotgun itself. I tested it at an outdoor range in relatively dry conditions.

The MESA SADDLERAIL performed flawlessly during the initial testing. The shell holders securely retained the 12-gauge rounds, and the red dot sight mounted on the Picatinny rail held zero perfectly, even after repeated firing of heavy buckshot loads. The added weight of the SADDLERAIL and shells helped to dampen recoil slightly, making follow-up shots quicker.

It took me a few minutes to get used to the slightly wider profile of the shotgun with the side saddle attached. However, the added benefit of having six extra rounds immediately accessible far outweighed any minor adjustment period. Reloading drills became significantly faster and more efficient.

There were no immediate issues or surprises after the first use. Everything functioned exactly as intended. The shells remained secure, the rail was stable, and the overall feel of the shotgun was improved.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the MESA SADDLERAIL has proven to be an incredibly reliable and durable addition to my Remington 870. I’ve used it in various conditions, including a few wet and muddy outings, and it continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of loosening, shifting, or any other degradation of performance.

The MESA SADDLERAIL shows minimal signs of wear and tear after considerable use. The anodized finish has held up well, and the shell holders still provide a secure grip on the rounds. I regularly inspect the mounting screws to ensure they are properly tightened, but they have never loosened on their own.

Cleaning and maintenance are incredibly simple. I typically wipe down the SADDLERAIL with a lightly oiled cloth after each use to remove any dirt or grime. The shell holders can be easily cleaned with a brush and solvent if necessary.

Compared to other shotgun accessories I’ve used in the past, the MESA SADDLERAIL is in a different league. Cheaper side saddles often feel flimsy and can shift during firing. The MESA SADDLERAIL’s solid construction and secure mounting provide unmatched reliability and performance. It’s a noticeable upgrade in both quality and functionality.

Breaking Down the Features of MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Mesa Tactical
• Model: MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA
• Compatibility: Remington 870 12 Gauge
• Shell Capacity: 6 Rounds
• Rail Length: 5 inches
• Mounting Side: Left Side Only
• Material: Aluminum
• Finish: Black Anodized

These specifications are critical to understanding the product’s capabilities and limitations. The compatibility ensures it fits the intended shotgun. The shell capacity provides ample extra rounds. The aluminum construction ensures durability while remaining lightweight.

Performance & Functionality

The MESA SADDLERAIL excels at its intended purpose: providing a secure shell carrier and a stable optics mounting platform. The shell holders retain rounds firmly, preventing them from falling out during recoil or movement. The Picatinny rail is perfectly aligned and provides ample space for mounting various optics and accessories.

The main strength of the MESA SADDLERAIL is its robust construction and integrated design. The shell carrier and rail are combined into a single, durable unit. A potential weakness could be the left-side-only configuration, which might not be ideal for left-handed shooters, although it could be argued that keeping the right side clear aids in manipulation and prevents snagging.

The MESA SADDLERAIL meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a reliable and functional upgrade to the Remington 870.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the MESA SADDLERAIL is exceptional. The materials used are high-quality, and the construction is solid and precise. The added weight of the unit, especially when loaded with shells, helps to reduce felt recoil.

The MESA SADDLERAIL is relatively user-friendly, though some may require more time to adjust to the shotgun’s wider profile. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and minimal technical knowledge.

Durability & Maintenance

The MESA SADDLERAIL is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning and inspection are all that’s needed to keep the unit in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MESA SADDLERAIL is primarily designed to provide a mounting platform for optics. Red dot sights, holographic sights, and even low-power scopes can be easily mounted on the Picatinny rail.

While the MESA SADDLERAIL itself doesn’t offer much in the way of customization, it’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories designed for the Remington 870. These include different grips, stocks, and forends. The MESA SADDLERAIL enhances the shotgun’s ability to accept these other popular upgrades.

Pros and Cons of MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA

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Who Should Buy MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA?

The MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA is perfect for law enforcement officers, home defense enthusiasts, and tactical shooters who want to enhance the versatility and firepower of their Remington 870 shotguns. It’s also a great choice for hunters who want to carry extra ammunition for quick follow-up shots.

This product might not be suitable for shooters who prioritize an extremely lightweight shotgun or who require a completely ambidextrous setup. Those who prefer a more traditional shotgun configuration might also find the added bulk of the MESA SADDLERAIL to be undesirable.

A must-have accessory for the MESA SADDLERAIL is a high-quality optic, such as a red dot sight. A weapon light is also a valuable addition for low-light situations.

Conclusion on MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA

The MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA is an outstanding accessory for the Remington 870 shotgun. It provides a significant upgrade in both functionality and firepower. Its durable construction, secure shell retention, and stable optics mounting platform make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on their 870 for defense or tactical applications.

While the price may seem high compared to some other side saddle options, the quality and integrated design of the MESA SADDLERAIL justify the cost. You get what you pay for, and with this product, you’re getting a top-tier accessory that will last for years.

I would highly recommend the MESA SADDLERAIL to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 870. It’s a game-changer that will enhance your shotgun’s capabilities and give you a tactical advantage. If you’re serious about your 870, this is a must-have accessory. Upgrade your Remington 870 today with the MESA SADDLERAIL 5″ REM 6-12GA!

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