ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN Review

First Thoughts on the ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN

The ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN, a side saddle shell carrier from Advanced Technology International (ATI), promises to increase a shotgun’s firepower and readiness. It caught my attention with its advertised versatility, fitting multiple popular shotgun models. This intrigued me because I own both a Mossberg 500 and a Remington 870 and often find myself wishing for a faster way to reload during training exercises.

Upon unboxing, I immediately noted the simple, yet functional design. The black finish blends well with most tactical shotguns, and the polymer construction feels sturdy, yet lightweight. I was particularly interested in the “customizable” aspect, hoping it refers to easy mounting and shell retention adjustment.

I’ve used other side saddles before, primarily from brands like Mesa Tactical and TacStar. Those are excellent, but often significantly more expensive. I was looking for a more budget-friendly option that didn’t sacrifice too much in terms of reliability and shell capacity. This ADV TECH offering seemed to strike that balance on paper.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The polymer felt less robust than aluminum alternatives, but the potential for a high shell count (9!), multi-shotgun compatibility, and the attractive price point definitely piqued my interest. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could live up to its claims.

Real-World Testing: Putting ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN on my Mossberg 500 at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, ideal for familiarizing myself with the side saddle. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and basic tools.

During the first shooting session, I focused on practicing reloads from the side saddle. The shells were easily accessible and retention was initially good. However, after about 50 rounds, I noticed a slight loosening, requiring a bit of adjustment to maintain secure shell retention.

There were no major issues after the first use, but I noted the need to closely monitor shell retention as I continued to use it. The polymer construction did feel a bit flexible under the weight of nine shells, giving me some concern about long-term durability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and approximately 500 rounds fired across both the Mossberg 500 and, with slight modification, a Remington 870, the ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN held up reasonably well. Minor wear and tear were visible on the polymer, especially around the shell contact points. The finish began to show slight fading.

Cleaning was relatively simple, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth. The side saddle did not seem to collect excessive amounts of dirt or debris. However, I had to regularly check and tighten the mounting screws to prevent loosening, especially after extended shooting sessions.

Compared to my experience with the aluminum Mesa Tactical side saddle, the ADV TECH offering did fall short in terms of overall robustness. The aluminum side saddle felt more solid and maintained consistent shell retention without requiring constant adjustments. However, considering the price difference, the ADV TECH performed adequately for recreational shooting and training.

Breaking Down the Features of ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN

Specifications

• The ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN is a side saddle shell carrier designed to hold up to nine shotgun shells. It is constructed from a durable, yet lightweight, black polymer.

• It is designed to fit Mossberg 500 and 590 shotguns directly. With minor modifications, it can also be fitted to Remington 870, Winchester SXP, and Maverick 88 shotguns.

• These specifications are important because they determine the side saddle’s compatibility with different shotgun models and the amount of ammunition it can carry. The polymer construction helps keep the weight down, which is essential when carrying a loaded shotgun for extended periods.

Performance & Functionality

• The ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN performs its primary function of holding and providing quick access to shotgun shells. The ability to carry nine shells is a significant advantage for tactical situations or extended shooting sessions.

• However, the shell retention can be inconsistent and requires periodic adjustment. The polymer construction, while lightweight, does flex noticeably under the weight of a full load of shells.

• Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly side saddle, but doesn’t exceed them in terms of robustness or refined functionality. It does offer substantial increased firepower for the shotgun platform.

Design & Ergonomics

• The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The polymer is durable enough for moderate use, but lacks the premium feel of aluminum alternatives.

• The side saddle is relatively user-friendly, with a simple design that is easy to install and use. There is a slight learning curve to finding the optimal shell retention setting for different shell types.

Durability & Maintenance

• The ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN is expected to last for several years with proper care and moderate use. Heavy or prolonged use may accelerate wear and tear.

• Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and tightening of the mounting screws. Replacement parts are not readily available, so damage may require complete replacement of the side saddle.

Accessories and Customization Options

• The ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN does not come with any included accessories. There are no built-in customization options such as rails for mounting optics or lights.

• The primary customization comes from the user’s ability to adjust shell retention. While there aren’t direct accessories, the end user can explore aftermarket shell holders, for example. The side saddle is compatible with most standard shotgun shells.

Pros and Cons of ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN

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Who Should Buy ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN?

• Perfect for: Budget-conscious shooters, recreational shooters, home defense enthusiasts, and those looking to increase their shotgun’s shell capacity without spending a fortune. This product is an excellent starting point.
• Who should skip this product? Those who demand maximum durability, consistent shell retention, and integrated accessory mounting options should consider higher-end aluminum side saddles.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A good thread locker for the mounting screws is highly recommended to prevent loosening during use. A quality shell carrier on a belt or vest to supplement the side saddle is another beneficial addition.

Conclusion on ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN

The ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN offers a compelling value proposition for shooters seeking to increase their shotgun’s shell capacity on a budget. While it may not be as robust or feature-rich as higher-end alternatives, it performs its primary function adequately and is compatible with multiple popular shotgun models.

The price is certainly justified given its functionality and versatility. It provides a noticeable upgrade over not having any side saddle at all.

I would recommend this product to budget-conscious shooters who understand its limitations and are willing to accept occasional shell retention adjustments. If you’re looking for an affordable way to boost your shotgun’s firepower, give the ADV TECH 9 SHT SIDE SDL MOSS/REM/WIN a try. Just remember to check those screws and monitor shell retention.

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