Let’s Dive into ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder
The ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder is a simple but incredibly useful accessory designed to enhance the functionality of your shotgun, specifically if you’re already running an ATI Outdoors folding stock. This accessory provides quick and easy access to extra 12-gauge rounds, making reloads faster and more efficient in the field or at the range.
I’ve spent years fumbling for extra shells while hunting upland game, often wishing I had a more streamlined way to carry and access my ammunition. Frustrated with bulky vests and overloaded pockets, I sought a solution that was lightweight, convenient, and wouldn’t interfere with my shotgun’s handling.
Upon receiving the ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder, I was immediately impressed by its rugged simplicity. The DuPont extreme reinforced polymer felt incredibly durable, and the overall design appeared both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Compared to other shell carriers I’ve used – elastic sleeves that stretch and lose retention, or bulky side-mounted carriers that add unnecessary weight – the ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder seemed like a streamlined and efficient solution. I chose this one primarily for its compatibility with my ATI Outdoors folding stock and its promise of secure shell retention.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to see if this relatively inexpensive accessory could truly deliver on its promise of quick and reliable access to extra rounds. Time would tell if it lived up to my expectations in the demanding environments I typically find myself in.
Real-World Testing: Putting ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on drills that involved rapid reloads. I attached it to my modified Mossberg 500 with an ATI Outdoors top-folding stock, loading it with five 12-gauge shells.
The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions for testing the shell holder’s accessibility and retention. I practiced transitioning between targets, firing a few rounds, and then quickly accessing the shells from the holder for reloads.
The shell holder performed admirably, allowing for significantly faster reloads compared to reaching into my shell pouch. The shells were held securely but could be easily accessed with minimal effort.
One minor issue arose during rapid firing: the recoil sometimes caused the last shell in the holder to shift slightly, but it never came loose entirely. This was something I noted to monitor in future testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple trips to the range and a couple of upland bird hunts, the ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile addition to my shotgun. It has endured various weather conditions, including light rain and dusty environments, without any significant issues.
The polymer construction has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or significant wear and tear. The shell retention remains consistently strong, even after repeated loading and unloading.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove any dirt or debris. I haven’t had to perform any repairs or adjustments.
Compared to my previous experiences with other shell carriers, the ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder offers a superior combination of accessibility, durability, and ease of maintenance. It outperforms elastic sleeves in terms of shell retention and is far less bulky than side-mounted carriers.
Breaking Down the Features of ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder
Specifications
- Manufacturer: ATI Outdoors.
- Capacity: Holds 5 x 12-gauge shotshells.
- Material: Constructed from DuPont extreme reinforced polymer.
The polymer construction is a crucial specification, offering a balance of durability and lightweight design, crucial for maintaining comfortable firearm handling. The five-shell capacity provides a useful amount of readily accessible ammunition without adding excessive bulk to the firearm.
- Attachment System: Screw attachment, designed to mount directly to ATI Shotforce top folding or full-length stocks.
- Ambidextrous: Designed for both left and right-handed shooters.
- Color: Black.
The screw attachment ensures a secure and stable connection to compatible stocks, preventing unwanted movement during use. The ambidextrous design makes it suitable for a wide range of shooters, accommodating different shooting styles and preferences.
Performance & Functionality
The ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder excels at its primary function: providing quick and easy access to extra shotshells. During reloads, the shells are readily available and can be grabbed quickly and efficiently.
Its main strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. It securely holds the shells without being overly difficult to load or unload.
The shell holder meets my expectations for a basic shell carrier, though improvements could be made in shell retention during heavy recoil. A slightly tighter fit would further enhance its performance in demanding situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder features a simple, functional design. The reinforced polymer construction provides a good balance of durability and weight.
The shell holder’s low profile design minimizes interference with the firearm’s handling. There is minimal learning curve associated with using it, as it is simple to load and access shells.
Durability & Maintenance
The DuPont extreme reinforced polymer construction suggests that the ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder is built to last. After months of use in varying conditions, it shows no signs of significant wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. No specialized tools or cleaning solutions are needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder is primarily designed as a standalone accessory. It doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality.
However, its compatibility with ATI Outdoors stocks allows for integration with other accessories offered by the manufacturer, such as cheek rests and recoil pads. No additional customization options are available for the shell holder itself.
Pros and Cons of ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder
Pros
- Easy to install on compatible ATI Outdoors stocks.
- Provides quick access to five additional 12-gauge shotshells.
- Durable DuPont extreme reinforced polymer construction.
- Lightweight and low-profile design.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Only compatible with ATI Outdoors Shotforce top folding or full-length stocks.
- Shell retention could be improved for heavy recoil situations.
Who Should Buy ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder?
The ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters who already own or plan to purchase an ATI Outdoors Shotforce top folding or full-length stock. It is especially useful for those who prioritize quick access to extra ammunition.
Individuals seeking a universal shell carrier that can be attached to any shotgun stock should skip this product and explore alternative options. A must-have modification to consider is potentially adding a thin layer of rubber or adhesive material to the shell slots to enhance shell retention.
Conclusion on ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder
The ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder offers a simple, affordable, and effective solution for carrying extra 12-gauge shells on compatible shotguns. Its durable construction and user-friendly design make it a worthwhile addition to any shotgunner’s gear.
The price is certainly justified given the increased functionality and convenience it provides. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their shotgun’s reloading efficiency.
If you’re already running an ATI Outdoors stock and need a straightforward way to carry extra shells, the ATI Outdoors Shotfoce Shell Holder is a no-brainer. It’s a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in the field or at the range – go ahead and give it a try.