AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch Review

First Impressions of AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch

The AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch from AR500 Armor is a simple yet potentially invaluable piece of kit for any shotgun enthusiast. It promises easy access to shotgun shells in a compact, MOLLE-compatible package. At a price point of $17.00, it certainly caught my eye as a potentially cost-effective solution for carrying extra rounds at the range or in the field.

As someone with over a decade of experience in outdoor and tactical gear, I’m always looking for efficient ways to carry ammunition. My primary motivation for seeking out a shotgun pouch was to consolidate loose shells and readily have a quick reload option on my gear. Previously, I was using a combination of dump pouches and pockets, a disorganized and inefficient system, to say the least.

Upon receiving the AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch, my first impression was that it was smaller than anticipated, yet well-constructed. The Cordura Nylon felt durable and the elastic loops seemed tight enough to securely hold shells. While I initially assumed it would come with pre-attached MOLLE straps, the inclusion of MALICE clips was a welcome alternative.

I considered several similar products, including the Condor Shotgun Reload Pouch and the Blackhawk! Shotshell Carrier. However, the AR500 Armor offering stood out due to its compact size and the promise of being able to hold a full box of 25 shells. The positive user feedback regarding its quality and ease of use further solidified my decision to give it a try.

My initial feeling was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. The compact design and affordable price were definitely appealing. However, I was also slightly concerned about the overall capacity and how easily I could access the shells under stress.

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Real-World Testing: Putting AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch was at my local shooting range during a practice session with my Benelli M4. I wanted to see how it performed under relatively controlled conditions, focusing on reload speed and ease of access. I attached the pouch to my plate carrier using the included MALICE clips.

The conditions were fairly mild, dry and about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Initially, loading a full box of 25 shells into the pouch was slightly awkward. Tearing off the top of the box as suggested and dropping it in worked, but it definitely added an extra step compared to loading individual shells.

The elastic flaps provided surprisingly easy access to the shells. I found myself quickly adapting to reaching in and grabbing a handful for reloading. However, manipulating the shells while wearing gloves proved a bit more challenging.

No major issues arose during this first use. The pouch remained securely attached to my plate carrier, and the shells remained snug within the elastic loops and inside the main compartment. The compact size was also a definite plus, preventing the pouch from interfering with my movements.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including a pheasant hunting trip and multiple range sessions, the AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch has held up remarkably well. The Cordura Nylon shows no signs of significant wear or tear, despite being exposed to dirt, mud, and occasional rain. The stitching remains strong and the elastic loops still provide a firm grip on the shells.

Maintaining the pouch is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I’ve also occasionally used a mild detergent for tougher stains.

Compared to my previous system of using general-purpose pouches, the AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch is a significant improvement in terms of organization and accessibility. The dedicated design makes reloading faster and more efficient. It eliminates the need to fumble through a disorganized pouch. However, the reliance on a torn-off box for optimal loading is a slight drawback.

Breaking Down the Features of AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch

Specifications

• Manufacturer: AR500 Armor. They are known for their body armor and tactical gear.
• Width: 5 inches. This compact size makes it less obtrusive on a rig.
• Accessory Attachment System: MOLLE. The inclusion of MALICE clips offers versatile mounting options.
• Fastener/Closure Type: Cordura Nylon. The rugged material ensures durability in demanding conditions.
• Pouch Compartments: 1. This simplifies the design while maximizing capacity.
• Capacity per Compartment: 25. Designed to hold a standard box of 12-gauge shotgun shells.
• Gun Type: Shotgun. This is specifically designed for shotgun ammunition.
• Finish: Cordura. Offers resistance to abrasion and water.
• Caliber: 12 Gauge. Tailored to the most common shotgun caliber.

These specifications highlight the pouch’s focus on simplicity, durability, and compatibility. The Cordura construction and MOLLE attachment system are standard features for tactical gear. The capacity to hold 25 rounds is a practical consideration for shotgun users.

Performance & Functionality

The AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch performs its primary function admirably: carrying and providing easy access to shotgun shells. Its strengths lie in its compact size, robust construction, and simple design. The elastic flaps allow for quick and intuitive access to the shells.

A slight weakness is the reliance on the shotgun shell box to maintain organization within the pouch. Without the box, shells can shift around, potentially making retrieval less efficient. However, the external elastic loops are ideal for holding a few specialty rounds, such as slugs or breaching rounds, providing immediate access.

Overall, the AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch meets my expectations for a basic shotgun shell carrier. It’s not the most advanced or feature-rich option on the market, but it’s a solid performer at an affordable price.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch is straightforward and functional. The Cordura Nylon construction feels durable and provides adequate protection for the shells. The overall weight is minimal, even when fully loaded.

The pouch is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with loading a full box of shells. The elastic flaps provide a good balance of retention and accessibility. The compact size is a major advantage, allowing it to be easily integrated into a variety of load-bearing systems.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cordura Nylon construction suggests that the AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch is built to last. After weeks of use in various conditions, it shows no signs of significant wear or tear. The stitching is strong and the elastic loops retain their elasticity.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The simple design minimizes the potential for mechanical failures. With proper care, this pouch should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch comes with two short MALICE clips for attaching to MOLLE-compatible gear. There are no other included accessories.

Customization options are limited, as the pouch is designed for a specific purpose. However, the MOLLE attachment system allows it to be easily integrated with a wide variety of tactical vests, plate carriers, and belts. The external elastic loops also provide a small degree of customization, allowing users to carry specialty rounds or other small items.

Pros and Cons of AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch

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Who Should Buy AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch?

The AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch is perfect for shotgun shooters who want a simple, durable, and affordable way to carry extra ammunition. It is ideal for hunters, tactical shooters, and those who participate in shooting sports. It is also suitable for anyone who wants to keep a spare box of shotgun shells readily accessible in a vehicle or at home.

This product might not be the best choice for those who require a more advanced or feature-rich shotgun shell carrier. If you need a pouch with individual shell loops, a more complex closure system, or integrated MOLLE straps, you may want to consider other options.

A must-have modification is to pre-load the external loops with your preferred breaching rounds or slug rounds.

Conclusion on AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch

The AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch is a solid and practical piece of gear that delivers on its promises. It provides a simple and effective way to carry a full box of shotgun shells in a compact and durable package. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

At $17.00, the price is definitely justified. This pouch offers excellent value for money. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who uses a shotgun regularly.

I would personally recommend the AR500 Armor Shotgun Pouch to anyone looking for a basic and reliable shotgun shell carrier. It’s a no-frills option that gets the job done, and does it well. If you need to carry extra shotgun shells, this pouch is a great place to start. Add one to your cart today and improve your shotgun setup!