The Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″ Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of shell bags. I’ve used everything from repurposed military pouches to high-end leather carriers, and the humble shell bag is a critical piece of equipment, especially for shotgun sports. When I first laid eyes on the Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″, its simplicity and potential practicality immediately caught my attention.
I was looking for a lightweight, durable, and affordable solution for carrying shells during sporting clays. My old canvas bag, while reliable, was starting to show its age and soaked up moisture like a sponge on rainy days. The Allen Competitor Shell Bag promised a more modern approach, and at a price point of $25.99, it was worth exploring.
Unboxing the Allen Competitor Shell Bag was straightforward. The gray EVA material felt surprisingly robust and lightweight. The 2″ webbed belt with its quick-release buckle seemed sturdy enough for a day on the range, and the overall build quality appeared decent for the price.
Compared to my old canvas bag, the Allen Competitor felt significantly lighter and less bulky. The MTM Shotshell Case offers more structured organization, but lacks the portability of a belt-mounted bag. The Browning Bird’n Lite Shell Pouch provides greater capacity, but at a considerably higher price. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – it looked promising, but the true test would be in the field. I was eager to see if it could hold up under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″ to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″ to my local sporting clays range. The day was overcast with a slight drizzle, a perfect test for its claimed water resistance. I loaded it with 50 rounds of 12-gauge shells and headed out to the first station.
The bag sat comfortably on my hip, and the quick-release buckle made it easy to adjust the fit. Reaching for shells was effortless, and the wide opening allowed for quick access even with gloved hands. I appreciate the ease of using this bag and it’s clear that Allen designed it with the user in mind.
No shells fell out, and the bag retained its shape even as it emptied. The drizzle beaded up on the EVA material, keeping the shells dry. After the round, I noticed the Allen Competitor Shell Bag was light and easy to clean.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″ has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being tossed into my range bag and exposed to various weather conditions. I’ve even used it for a couple of informal trap shooting sessions.
Cleaning is a breeze – a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my old canvas bag, the Allen Competitor is significantly easier to maintain. So far, it outperforms my expectations for a bag in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″
Specifications
- Capacity: Holds up to 50 loose shotgun shells or spent hulls. This is sufficient for a round of sporting clays or trap.
- Material: Durable Gray EVA. EVA is lightweight, water-resistant, and easy to clean.
- Belt: 2″ webbed belt with quick-release buckle. The belt adjusts up to 52″ for a comfortable fit.
- Accessories: Two D-rings for attaching accessories and four elastic loops for choke tubes or extra shells. These features add versatility to the bag.
- Single Compartment: Simplifies shell access. A single compartment can make it easier to grab shells quickly.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the bag’s usability and durability. The EVA material ensures the bag is lightweight and weather-resistant, while the adjustable belt provides a comfortable and secure fit. The added loops and rings offer customization and convenience.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″ performs its job admirably. It reliably carries shells without spilling, allows for quick and easy access, and is comfortable to wear. The single compartment design is straightforward and efficient.
One minor weakness is the lack of internal dividers. This means the shells can sometimes shift around, especially when the bag is only partially full. Overall, it meets my expectations for a basic shell bag.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent for the price point. The EVA material feels durable, and the stitching appears solid. The bag is lightweight, which is a definite plus during long shooting sessions.
The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills. The quick-release buckle is easy to operate, even with gloves on. There is virtually no learning curve – it’s ready to use right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″ should last for at least a couple of seasons with regular use. The EVA material is resistant to tearing and abrasion. It’s also incredibly easy to clean.
Maintenance is minimal – just wipe it down after each use. The simple design means there are few areas where dirt and grime can accumulate.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″ comes with two D-rings, allowing you to attach accessories such as a towel, a small first-aid kit, or a spent shell pouch. The four elastic loops are designed for choke tubes or extra shells, adding to its versatility. The bag is compatible with most standard belt-mounted accessories.
Pros and Cons of Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″
Pros
- Lightweight and durable EVA construction.
- Adjustable belt with quick-release buckle for a secure and comfortable fit.
- Simple and functional single-compartment design for easy access to shells.
- Affordable price point.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- No internal dividers to keep shells organized.
- Limited capacity (50 shells).
Who Should Buy Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″?
The Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″ is perfect for: casual sporting clays shooters, recreational trap shooters, and anyone looking for a lightweight and affordable shell carrying solution. It’s also a good option for beginners who are just getting into shotgun sports.
Who should skip this product? Competitive shooters who need a larger capacity bag with more organizational features, or those who prefer a more traditional look and feel (such as leather or canvas).
A must-have accessory is a small towel or cloth to wipe down the bag after use.
Conclusion on Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″
The Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″ is a surprisingly good value for the price. It’s lightweight, durable, functional, and easy to maintain. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles of more expensive bags, it gets the job done without breaking the bank.
The price is definitely justified. You get a reliable shell bag that will last for a reasonable amount of time. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a basic and affordable shell carrying solution.
If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills shell bag that won’t weigh you down or empty your wallet, the Allen Competitor Shell Bag Single Compartment 50rd Gray EVA 2″ is a solid choice. Pick one up and get out to the range!