Let’s Dive into Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny
The Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny is a simple yet potentially valuable accessory for any shotgun enthusiast. It allows you to keep extra shells readily accessible, mounted directly to your shotgun’s Picatinny rail. Given the manufacturer, Tacfire’s reputation for budget-friendly gear, I was curious to see if this shell carrier could offer reliable performance without breaking the bank.
I was looking for a way to streamline my shotgun setup for three-gun competitions. Fumbling for shells during a stage can cost precious seconds, and I wanted a solution that was both convenient and secure.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was that it was surprisingly lightweight, perhaps even a little too lightweight. The carrier is made of polymer, which is understandable at this price point, but I was concerned about its durability. It has a simple design with five slots for 12-gauge shells.
Compared to other side shell carriers that often attach directly to the receiver, this Tacfire option utilizes a Picatinny rail. This provides mounting flexibility, but requires your shotgun to have a compatible rail section. I chose this carrier over others that mount directly to the receiver because I wanted the option to easily remove it or reposition it on different parts of the gun.
I was cautiously optimistic. The price was certainly right, but I was eager to see how it would perform under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny at my local shooting range during a practice session. I mounted it on the forend rail of my Mossberg 930. I ran through a few drills involving rapid reloading, and the carrier definitely made accessing extra shells much faster.
The carrier performed adequately in dry conditions, holding the shells securely in place during recoil. However, I quickly noticed that inserting and removing shells took a bit of effort. It felt stiffer than other shell carriers I’ve used in the past.
After my first session, I was a bit concerned about the long-term durability of the polymer, but I still liked the convenience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including a three-gun competition and a couple of hunting trips, the Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny is showing some wear, but it’s still functional. The polymer has become slightly scratched, and the shell retention feels a bit looser.
I haven’t experienced any catastrophic failures, but I’m definitely more careful when handling the shotgun to avoid accidentally dislodging shells. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it needs. It does not require regular lubrication or special maintenance.
Compared to higher-end shell carriers I’ve used in the past, the Tacfire offering doesn’t quite measure up in terms of durability and smooth operation. However, considering the price difference, it offers acceptable performance for casual use.
Breaking Down the Features of Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny
Specifications
Caliber: 12 Gauge – This carrier is designed specifically for 12-gauge shotgun shells. This is standard, but it’s important to be aware of the limitation.
Capacity: 5 Rounds – It holds five 12-gauge shells, providing a decent amount of readily accessible ammunition. This is a good balance between capacity and bulk.
Mount Type: Picatinny – It attaches to any standard Picatinny rail, offering versatile mounting options. This is a key advantage, especially for shotguns with forend rails.
Material: Polymer – Constructed from polymer, which keeps the weight down but may compromise durability compared to metal alternatives. The choice of material is understandable given the price point, but it’s the primary area of concern.
Color: Black – It comes in a black finish, which blends well with most shotgun configurations. The black color is a practical and aesthetic choice.
Performance & Functionality
The Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny performs its core function adequately: holding extra shells on your shotgun. However, the shell retention is not as tight as I would prefer, and inserting/removing shells can be a bit stiff.
The primary strength is the convenience it offers for quick reloading. The biggest weakness is the potential for shells to dislodge if the shotgun is bumped or handled roughly. It meets expectations for the price, but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for a budget-friendly accessory. The polymer feels a bit cheap, but the overall design is functional. There’s no sharp edges or uncomfortable protrusions.
It’s relatively user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills to install. The learning curve is minimal; simply attach it to a Picatinny rail and load the shells.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability is questionable, especially under heavy use or in harsh conditions. The polymer is likely to degrade over time, and the shell retention may weaken further.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply clean it with a damp cloth as needed. There are no moving parts that require lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny doesn’t come with any accessories. Its primary customization option is its placement on the Picatinny rail.
It’s compatible with any shotgun equipped with a standard Picatinny rail section. However, its design is specific to 12-gauge shells, limiting its versatility with other calibers.
Pros and Cons of Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny
Pros
- Affordable Price: Extremely budget-friendly compared to other shell carriers.
- Picatinny Rail Mount: Offers versatile mounting options.
- Lightweight Design: Doesn’t add significant weight to the shotgun.
- Simple Installation: Easy to attach and detach.
- Convenient Reloading: Provides quick access to extra shells.
Cons
- Polymer Construction: Questionable long-term durability.
- Stiff Shell Retention: Inserting and removing shells can be difficult.
- Potential Shell Dislodging: Shells may come loose with rough handling.
Who Should Buy Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny?
The Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny is perfect for casual shooters, recreational hunters, and budget-conscious individuals looking for a simple way to carry extra shotgun shells. It’s a great option for those who want to try out a side shell carrier without investing a lot of money.
This product isn’t ideal for serious competitors, professional shooters, or individuals who demand maximum durability and reliability. It’s also not recommended for those who frequently operate in harsh environments.
A must-have modification would be to possibly add adhesive velcro on the inside to give an extra tight fit to prevent shell dislodging.
Conclusion on Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny
The Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny is a no-frills accessory that offers basic functionality at an unbeatable price. While its polymer construction raises concerns about long-term durability, it provides a convenient way to carry extra shells for casual use.
The value proposition is strong, given its low price point. However, buyers should be aware of its limitations and potential drawbacks.
I would cautiously recommend it to those on a tight budget who understand its limitations. If you’re looking for a simple and affordable way to carry extra shotgun shells, the Tacfire 5 Round Side Shell Carrier 12G Shotgun /Picatinny is worth considering. Give it a try and see if it meets your basic needs!