The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder Made a Bold First Impression
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder promised a simple, yet elegant solution for marrying optic mounting and ammunition storage on lever-action rifles, specifically the Marlin 1894 series. Midwest Industries is a name I trust, known for their robust AR parts, so I was eager to see if they could translate that quality to a lever-gun accessory. I’ve always appreciated the classic lines of lever-actions, but the lack of easy optic mounting always felt like a compromise in modern shooting scenarios.
My lever-action has always been a ‘grab-and-go’ kind of rifle, but keeping spare ammo readily accessible was a constant challenge. I was tired of bulky stock cuffs and belt loops. The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder seemed to offer a streamlined solution. I considered other side-mounted shell holders, but they lacked an integrated optic rail.
Unboxing the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder, I was immediately impressed. The anodized aluminum rail felt solid, not like some flimsy afterthought. The included shell holders also appeared durable. The initial impression was of quality materials and thoughtful design, clearly prioritizing both function and aesthetics.
Compared to a saddle-style shell holder, the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder promised a cleaner look and the added benefit of optic mounting. I also looked at a competing product from XS Sights, but it was more expensive and didn’t seem as robust. I chose the Midwest Industries option because it felt like the best balance of features, quality, and price.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of skepticism. Would it truly maintain the rifle’s classic feel while adding modern functionality? It looked promising, but range testing would be the ultimate judge.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder was at my local shooting range. I wanted to zero my red dot sight and test the accessibility of the shell holders under controlled conditions. The weather was dry and sunny, perfect for an initial evaluation.
Installation was straightforward, thanks to the included mounting screws. Once secured, the rail felt rock solid. Accessing the shells from the holders was surprisingly easy, even with gloves on. I ran several drills, transitioning from target to target and reloading from the rail. The shell holders kept the rounds secure, yet readily available. I experienced no malfunctions or issues during this first session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder has proven to be a reliable addition to my lever-action. I’ve used it in various conditions, including a rainy deer hunt and a dusty range day. It continues to perform flawlessly.
There are no signs of wear and tear on the rail itself. The anodized finish is holding up well. The shell holders remain secure, showing no signs of loosening or cracking. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it needs.
Compared to previous shell-carrying methods, the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is a significant improvement. It’s more convenient than a stock cuff and more streamlined than a belt-mounted carrier. It allows me to keep my ammo readily accessible without compromising the handling or balance of the rifle. It has outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is specifically designed for the Marlin 1894 series of lever-action rifles. It features:
A hard-coat anodized 6061 aluminum rail for durability and corrosion resistance. This ensures the rail can withstand harsh conditions and maintain its integrity over time.
Three MI-USH universal shell holders, allowing for a variety of cartridge types. This versatility is important, as I switch between .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum depending on the hunting season.
Capacity for up to six rounds, providing ample spare ammunition. This capacity is a good balance between carrying enough rounds and keeping the profile of the rifle slim.
Nylon-tipped stainless steel set screws that protect the receiver from damage. This thoughtful design prevents marring of the rifle’s finish, which is important for maintaining its value and appearance.
Compatibility with a wide range of optics due to its Picatinny rail design. This allows users to choose the optic that best suits their needs, whether it’s a red dot sight or a low-power scope.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder excels in its primary functions: optic mounting and ammunition storage. The rail provides a stable and secure platform for optics, allowing for accurate shooting. The shell holders keep ammunition readily accessible for quick reloads.
The design allows for both vertical and horizontal positioning of the shell holders, adding to its versatility. This allows the user to customize the setup to their personal preference. The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder meets my expectations for a well-designed and functional accessory.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is well-designed and ergonomic. The slim profile doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s handling or balance. The shell holders are positioned for easy access, even with gloves on.
The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise machining. The weight is minimal, adding little to the overall weight of the rifle. It is very user-friendly, with no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is built to last. The hard-coat anodized aluminum rail is highly durable and resistant to corrosion. The shell holders are made from a tough polymer that can withstand repeated use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The set screws are easily accessible for tightening if needed. With proper care, this accessory should last for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder comes with the necessary mounting screws and three universal shell holders. The Picatinny rail is compatible with a wide range of optics, including red dot sights, holographic sights, and low-power scopes.
The universal shell holders can accommodate various cartridges, including .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, and .45 Colt. While Midwest Industries doesn’t offer different shell holder sizes, the universal design accommodates these rounds securely. Users can further customize the setup by adding sling mounts or other accessories to the rail.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder
Pros
- Provides a secure and stable platform for mounting optics on Marlin 1894 rifles.
- Offers convenient and accessible storage for up to six rounds of ammunition.
- Maintains the classic look and feel of the rifle while adding modern functionality.
- Durable construction with hard-coat anodized aluminum and tough polymer shell holders.
- Easy to install and maintain, with minimal impact on the rifle’s handling.
Cons
- The shell holders might be too tight for some older or softer-cased ammunition.
- The rail can add a slight bit of bulk to the side profile of the rifle.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder?
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is perfect for hunters who want to modernize their lever-action rifle with an optic while keeping spare ammunition readily accessible. It’s also ideal for competitive shooters who need quick reloads. Survivalists and preppers who value reliability and versatility will appreciate its rugged construction and ability to carry different cartridge types.
Those who prioritize the absolute lightest weight setup, or those who prefer a purely traditional aesthetic, might want to skip this product.
A red dot sight is a must-have accessory to take full advantage of the optic rail. A quality gun sling is also recommended for comfortable carrying in the field.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder
The Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is a well-designed and executed accessory that effectively solves the problem of optic mounting and ammunition storage on Marlin 1894 rifles. It blends seamlessly with the rifle’s classic aesthetics while adding modern functionality. The quality construction and thoughtful design make it a worthwhile investment for any lever-action enthusiast.
At $99.95, the price is justified by the quality of materials, the functionality it provides, and the reputation of Midwest Industries. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their lever-action rifle.
If you’re looking to modernize your Marlin 1894 and improve its functionality, the Midwest Industries Optic Rail Shell Holder is an excellent choice. It’s time to ditch the bulky stock cuffs and embrace a streamlined, modern approach to lever-action shooting. Upgrade your rifle today!