Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder Review

First Impressions of Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder

The Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder promises a simple, yet effective solution for carrying extra ammunition directly on your rifle. With Midwest Industries‘ reputation for quality AR-15 components, I was intrigued to see how their design would translate to a universal shell holder, especially for lever-action rifles. I was in the market for a more streamlined way to carry extra rounds on my lever action rifle.

My search began as I was configuring my Marlin 1894 for wild boar hunting. Traditional shell carriers felt bulky and cumbersome, often interfering with the rifle’s balance. I’d considered the Ranger Point Precision option, but the user reviews mentioning fitment issues and higher price points pushed me to explore alternatives.

Upon receiving the Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder, I was immediately impressed by its clean, minimalist design. The memory-resistant polymer felt sturdy and well-molded, hinting at durability. Its lightweight nature was a welcome surprise, a stark contrast to the heavier, fabric-based shell carriers I’d used previously.

Compared to the elastic-based shell carriers, the Midwest Industries offering seemed far more robust and less prone to wear and tear. The Ranger Point option, while aesthetically pleasing, appeared overly complex for what it needed to do. My first impression was positive, a sense of cautious optimism that this unassuming piece of polymer could solve my ammunition carrying woes.

I was excited by the potential of having a secure, low-profile shell holder that wouldn’t compromise the handling of my rifle. Disappointment wouldn’t be an issue, so long as it held rounds securely and mounted rigidly. The universal claim held promise for use on other platforms down the line, as well.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test took place at the local shooting range, where I put the Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder through its paces on my Marlin 1894 chambered in .44 Magnum. Mounted directly to the M-LOK slots on the forend, I wanted to assess how well it would hold the rounds under recoil. The range was dry and sunny, typical conditions for Southern California.

The installation was straightforward, attaching securely to the M-LOK slots. The shells snapped into place with a reassuring click. During rapid firing drills, the holder kept the .44 Magnum rounds firmly in place, with no signs of loosening or shifting.

The ease of accessing the shells was a significant improvement over my previous side-mounted quiver. I didn’t need any time to get used to it, as the indexing points allowed for intuitive shell retrieval. There weren’t any issues, but I was curious to see how it would fare in harsher conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including a boar hunting trip in the rugged terrain of Central California, the Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder has proven its mettle. It has withstood considerable abuse. The durability is impressive.

Despite being exposed to rain, mud, and brush, the polymer showed no signs of cracking or deformation. Even after being bumped against rocks and trees, the shells remained securely in place. The only maintenance required was a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.

This Midwest Industries product significantly outperformed my prior experiences with elastic shell carriers. Those would loosen over time and lose their grip. The Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder has maintained its secure hold, offering reliable performance in demanding conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder

Specifications

The Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder is designed to be a versatile ammunition carrier for lever and bolt-action rifles. It is constructed from a memory-resistant polymer, known for its durability and lightweight properties. This holder is designed for universal cartridge compatibility.

The holder features M-LOK attachment points for secure mounting on compatible forends. Indexing points ensure a secure fit in either a horizontal or vertical orientation. It weighs a mere few ounces, adding minimal bulk to the rifle. It is proudly made in the USA by Midwest Industries.

These specifications are important because they contribute to the overall functionality and user experience. The lightweight design prevents unnecessary weight, while the durable polymer ensures longevity. The M-LOK compatibility offers versatile mounting options.

Performance & Functionality

The Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder excels at its primary job: securely holding extra ammunition on the rifle. The shells snap in firmly, and they remain in place even under heavy recoil or during vigorous movement. Accessing the shells is quick and intuitive, allowing for rapid reloading.

The strengths of this product lie in its simplicity and reliability. It is easy to install, easy to use, and it performs consistently. The only potential weakness is its capacity, limited to a few extra rounds, but that is a trade-off for its low-profile design.

It exceeded my expectations. I was looking for a simple, durable, and reliable shell holder, and that is exactly what I got.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is minimalist and functional, with a focus on ease of use. The polymer construction feels solid and well-made, and it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the rifle. The indexing points are well-placed.

The holder is surprisingly comfortable to use, with no sharp edges or protrusions that could dig into the hand. There is no learning curve. Installation is straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust polymer construction, the Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder is built to last. The memory-resistant polymer is capable of withstanding significant abuse, including impacts, exposure to the elements, and prolonged use. Regular use is possible for years.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick cleaning with a damp cloth as needed. It requires no special tools or cleaning agents.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder does not come with any additional accessories. Its customization is limited to its mounting position on the M-LOK slots. It is compatible with any rifle that features M-LOK compatible slots.

The beauty of this product lies in its simplicity. No additional accessories are necessary. Its compatibility with standard M-LOK systems allows for flexible placement.

Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Universal Shell M-LOK Holder