U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP Review

The U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP Made a Bold First Impression

The U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP, a seemingly simple rifle buttstock shell holder, promises a convenient way to keep extra ammunition readily accessible. Offered by U. Mike’s, this black Cordura nylon accessory claims weather- and snap-resistance, holding six cartridges securely with elastic loops. As a tactical gear specialist, I was intrigued by the practical nature of this product and eager to evaluate its functionality in real-world scenarios, particularly given its incredibly accessible price point of $11.49.

I was initially looking for a streamlined solution to carry extra rifle rounds during hunting trips. I often found myself fumbling for cartridges in my pockets or pack, costing precious time and movement that could spook game. I had considered other options like magazine pouches on my belt or chest rig, but these felt bulky and cumbersome for long treks through the woods; I needed something minimalist.

The U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP arrived in a simple plastic bag, devoid of any fancy packaging. My first impression was of utilitarian simplicity. The black Cordura nylon felt reasonably robust, and the stitching appeared clean and consistent. It seemed lighter than I anticipated, which was a definite plus.

I have used buttstock shell holders before, specifically a neoprene version from a different manufacturer. That model, while comfortable, lacked the durability and secure shell retention I desired. Other options considered were elastic slip-on shell holders; however, these often lack the secure flap closure, raising concerns about debris and shells falling out. The U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP, with its hook-and-loop closure, seemed to offer a more secure and weather-resistant solution.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic about the U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP. It certainly appeared functional, but its long-term performance and durability remained to be seen. I was keen to see how well it held up to the rigors of field use and whether it truly offered a practical advantage over alternative ammunition carrying methods.

Real-World Testing: Putting U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test involved a weekend deer hunting trip in the Pennsylvania mountains. The weather was typical for late fall: damp, with intermittent drizzle and temperatures hovering around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. I fitted the U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP onto my trusty .30-06 hunting rifle, loading it with six rounds of 150-grain soft points.

The holder slipped easily over the buttstock, and the hook-and-loop closure provided a snug and secure fit. Accessing the shells was surprisingly easy, even with gloved hands. The elastic loops held the cartridges firmly in place, preventing them from shifting or falling out during movement. The U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP performed admirably in the damp conditions, with the Cordura nylon repelling water effectively.

After the first day, I did notice a slight shift in the holder’s position after several hours of hiking. It required minor readjustment, which became a recurring, albeit minor, inconvenience. The overall experience during this initial field test was positive, though the need for occasional adjustments was a slight drawback.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple hunting trips and range sessions, the U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP has proven to be reasonably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite exposure to mud, rain, and brush. The stitching remains intact, and the Cordura nylon shows no signs of fraying.

Maintaining the U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP is straightforward. Mud and dirt can be easily wiped off with a damp cloth. I haven’t needed to apply any specialized cleaning products. Compared to my previous neoprene shell holder, the Cordura nylon is far more resistant to absorbing moisture and odors.

My previous experience with elastic-only shell holders left me constantly worrying about losing rounds. The U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP, with its added flap and hook-and-loop closure, gives me much greater peace of mind. While not perfect, it outperforms those older designs in terms of security and weather resistance, though the occasional readjustment is a point against it.

Breaking Down the Features of U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP

Specifications

• Material: The holder is constructed from Cordura nylon, a synthetic fabric known for its durability and resistance to abrasion, tears, and scuffs. This is important for longevity in rough outdoor conditions.
• Capacity: It holds six rifle cartridges, providing a readily accessible supply of ammunition. This capacity strikes a reasonable balance between carrying enough rounds and maintaining a slim profile.
• Closure: A hook-and-loop closure secures the flap, protecting the cartridges from the elements and preventing them from falling out. The hook-and-loop provides quick and easy access while keeping the shells protected.
• Attachment: Elastic loops allow the holder to slip over the rifle buttstock. This design provides a secure and adjustable fit for various rifle stock sizes.
• Color: It comes in black, a practical and unobtrusive color for hunting and tactical applications. The black color blends in easily with most rifles and hunting apparel.
• Weather Resistance: The Cordura nylon material and flap closure offer protection against rain and other environmental elements. This helps keep cartridges dry and reliable.

Performance & Functionality

The U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP performs its primary function well: securely holding extra rifle rounds on the buttstock. The elastic loops provide adequate tension to keep cartridges in place, even during vigorous movement. However, as noted earlier, it does require occasional readjustment during extended use.

A key strength is its simplicity and ease of use. Loading and unloading cartridges is straightforward, even with gloves. One weakness is the potential for the hook-and-loop closure to accumulate debris, which can reduce its effectiveness over time. It generally meets my expectations for a budget-friendly shell holder, but the need for readjustment prevents it from exceeding them.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for the price. The Cordura nylon feels robust, and the stitching appears well-executed. At only a few ounces, it adds minimal weight to the rifle. The design is simple and functional, prioritizing utility over aesthetics.

The holder is generally user-friendly, requiring no complicated installation or adjustment procedures. A potential downside is the lack of padding or contouring, which might affect comfort during prolonged shooting sessions. There is no real learning curve; it’s a simple accessory that does exactly what it’s supposed to do.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the Cordura nylon construction, the U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP should last for several seasons of regular use. The main point of potential failure is the hook-and-loop closure, which may lose its grip over time with repeated use and exposure to debris. Regular cleaning and maintenance, such as removing dirt and debris from the hook-and-loop, should help prolong its lifespan.

Maintaining this holder is remarkably easy. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The Cordura nylon is relatively stain-resistant, so it doesn’t require any specialized cleaning products or treatments.

Accessories and Customization Options

The U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP is a standalone accessory and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited, although it might be possible to add padding or modify the elastic loops for different cartridge sizes. Due to its simple design, it’s generally compatible with most rifles and stocks.
There are no official accessories for the shell holder. You might, however, consider adding adhesive-backed Velcro strips to the buttstock for an even more secure fit, minimizing slippage.

Pros and Cons of U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP?

This shell holder is perfect for hunters seeking an affordable and practical way to carry extra rifle rounds. It’s also a good option for recreational shooters who want to keep ammunition readily accessible at the range. Survivalists or preppers on a tight budget could also find this a useful addition to their gear.

Individuals prioritizing maximum comfort or requiring a shell holder for very heavy use should consider other options. Competitive shooters might find the occasional readjustment too disruptive. Anyone needing a completely waterproof solution should also look elsewhere.

A worthwhile modification would be adding some thin padding to the inside of the holder for increased comfort against the cheek. Applying a strong adhesive-backed Velcro strip to the buttstock can also improve the security of the fit.

Conclusion on U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP

The U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP is a functional and affordable accessory that offers a convenient way to carry extra rifle ammunition. While it’s not without its minor drawbacks, such as the need for occasional readjustment, its durability, ease of use, and secure closure make it a worthwhile purchase for budget-conscious hunters and shooters.

At a price of $11.49, the value proposition is excellent. It’s a simple accessory that performs its intended function reasonably well.

I would recommend the U. Mike’s RFL BTT STK SHLL HLDR W/FLP to anyone looking for a budget-friendly solution to carry extra rifle rounds on their firearm. Don’t expect perfection, but do expect a solid and functional piece of gear that will get the job done. Pick one up today and experience the convenience for yourself!

Check Best Price HERE