Let’s Talk About Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount
The Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount offers a practical solution for Mossberg 500 and 590 series shotgun owners seeking increased firepower and accessory mounting capabilities. This side-mounted shell holder from Monstrum promises to keep seven 20-gauge shells readily accessible while simultaneously providing a Picatinny rail for optics or other tactical accessories. Let’s dive into what makes this product potentially essential for your shotgun setup.
For years, I’ve struggled with the awkward fumbling for spare shells during hunting trips and tactical training exercises. The need for a streamlined, readily available ammunition solution for my Mossberg 500 20-gauge became paramount, driving my search for the perfect shell carrier. This ultimately led me to the Monstrum offering.
My initial unboxing experience left me impressed with the product’s seemingly robust construction, though the two-piece design raised some concerns about potential long-term stability. The black finish matched well with my shotgun’s aesthetics. The weight felt manageable, not adding excessive bulk to the firearm.
Several similar products exist, including shell carriers from TacStar and Mesa Tactical. I chose the Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount primarily for its integrated Picatinny rail, offering the dual benefit of increased ammunition capacity and accessory mounting. The price point was also attractive compared to the higher-end options.
Upon first inspection, I was cautiously optimistic. The integration of the shell carrier and Picatinny rail was intriguing, although the need for drilling and tapping the receiver gave me some pause, as I prefer non-permanent modifications whenever possible.
Real-World Testing: Putting Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing occurred at an outdoor shooting range, simulating a fast-paced tactical scenario. I ran several drills requiring quick reloads, focusing on the accessibility and retention of the 20-gauge shells in the Monstrum carrier. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing.
In these controlled conditions, the shell carrier performed reasonably well, allowing for faster reloads compared to reaching for shells in a pouch. However, I noticed that the shells could shift slightly under recoil, occasionally requiring minor adjustments. The Picatinny rail allowed me to mount a small red dot sight.
Installation required drilling and tapping the receiver of my shotgun, which immediately voided the warranty (of course, I tested it on my older beater shotgun), and the process took a bit longer than I anticipated. After installation, I noticed a bit of rattle, although that went away after a few magazines were loaded into the shell carrier.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use during training sessions and a turkey hunting trip, the Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount has proven to be a mixed bag. The shell retention remains adequate. However, the finish has started to show wear around the shell insertion points.
Durability-wise, the aluminum construction has held up reasonably well, although I’ve noticed slight loosening of the screws connecting the shell holder to the rail mount, requiring periodic tightening. Cleaning is straightforward, typically involving wiping down the unit with a damp cloth and applying a light coat of oil to the metal surfaces. Overall, the carrier hasn’t been disappointing, but it also hasn’t significantly outperformed cheaper alternatives.
Compared to previous experiences with standalone shell carriers, the integrated Picatinny rail is a significant advantage. It allows for the simultaneous use of optics and readily available ammunition, enhancing the shotgun’s versatility. However, the necessity of drilling and tapping to the receiver is a big downside.
Breaking Down the Features of Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount
Specifications
- The Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount is designed for use with Mossberg 500 and 590 Series shotguns. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of popular 20-gauge models.
- It accommodates up to seven 20-gauge shotgun shells. This provides a substantial increase in onboard ammunition capacity.
- The ambidextrous design allows for installation on either side of the stock. This caters to both left- and right-handed shooters.
- It requires the receiver to be drilled and tapped for installation. This may be a deterrent for some users who prefer non-permanent modifications.
- It is also compatible with Mossberg Shockwave, 535, 835, and 590a1 models. However, pre-1997 Mossberg shotguns require different screws (6x48TPI, not included).
- The carrier is constructed from aluminum with a black finish. This provides a balance of durability and weight.
These specifications are important because they dictate the carrier’s compatibility, capacity, and overall usability. The ambidextrous design ensures broad appeal, while the shell capacity provides a tangible tactical advantage.
Performance & Functionality
The Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount performs its primary function – holding shells – adequately, though with some caveats. Shell retention is generally good, but occasional shifting under recoil requires monitoring.
The integrated Picatinny rail offers a valuable mounting platform for optics or other accessories, expanding the shotgun’s capabilities. However, the need for drilling and tapping is a significant drawback that can deter some users.
The carrier meets expectations in terms of basic functionality but falls short of exceeding them. There’s room for improvement in shell retention and ease of installation.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent, with aluminum construction providing adequate durability for most applications. The black finish blends well with most shotgun aesthetics.
The carrier’s weight is manageable, not adding excessive bulk to the firearm. The design is relatively user-friendly, though the installation process presents a learning curve for those unfamiliar with drilling and tapping.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction suggests reasonable longevity, but the finish is prone to wear over time. Periodic tightening of screws may be required to maintain optimal performance.
Maintenance is straightforward, involving simple cleaning and occasional lubrication. The carrier appears relatively easy to repair, provided replacement parts are available.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary accessory is the integrated Picatinny rail, which allows for mounting various optics, lights, or lasers. No other accessories are included with the Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount.
The carrier is compatible with any standard Picatinny rail accessories. This provides a wide range of customization options.
Pros and Cons of Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail MountPros
- Provides increased ammunition capacity, holding up to seven 20-gauge shells. Having readily available extra shells is invaluable in both hunting and tactical situations.
- Integrated Picatinny rail offers a mounting platform for optics and accessories. This expands the shotgun’s versatility and allows for customization.
- Ambidextrous design caters to both left- and right-handed shooters. This broadens the carrier’s appeal and ensures compatibility with different shooting styles.
- Relatively affordable compared to higher-end options. The price point makes it accessible to a wider range of users.
- Compatible with various Mossberg shotgun models (500, 590, Shockwave, etc.). This ensures broad compatibility within the Mossberg 20-gauge shotgun family.
Cons
- Requires drilling and tapping the receiver for installation. This is a significant drawback that can deter many users and potentially void the shotgun’s warranty.
- Shell retention could be improved, as shells can shift under recoil. This can lead to potential fumbling during reloads.
- Finish is prone to wear over time, particularly around shell insertion points. This may affect the carrier’s aesthetics.
Who Should Buy Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount?
Pros
- Provides increased ammunition capacity, holding up to seven 20-gauge shells. Having readily available extra shells is invaluable in both hunting and tactical situations.
- Integrated Picatinny rail offers a mounting platform for optics and accessories. This expands the shotgun’s versatility and allows for customization.
- Ambidextrous design caters to both left- and right-handed shooters. This broadens the carrier’s appeal and ensures compatibility with different shooting styles.
- Relatively affordable compared to higher-end options. The price point makes it accessible to a wider range of users.
- Compatible with various Mossberg shotgun models (500, 590, Shockwave, etc.). This ensures broad compatibility within the Mossberg 20-gauge shotgun family.
Cons
- Requires drilling and tapping the receiver for installation. This is a significant drawback that can deter many users and potentially void the shotgun’s warranty.
- Shell retention could be improved, as shells can shift under recoil. This can lead to potential fumbling during reloads.
- Finish is prone to wear over time, particularly around shell insertion points. This may affect the carrier’s aesthetics.
Perfect for: Tactical shooters who prioritize readily available ammunition and accessory mounting capabilities on their Mossberg 20-gauge shotguns. Home defense enthusiasts seeking increased firepower and customization options should also consider this product.
Who should skip this product? Those who are uncomfortable with drilling and tapping their shotgun’s receiver or those who prioritize a non-permanent modification. Also, shooters requiring absolutely bomb-proof shell retention may want to look at alternatives.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality optic or tactical light to utilize the Picatinny rail is a must. Consider applying a protective coating to the carrier to mitigate wear on the finish.
Conclusion on Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount
The Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount offers a functional solution for increasing ammunition capacity and adding accessory mounting options to your Mossberg shotgun. However, the necessity of drilling and tapping is a significant drawback that should be carefully considered.
The value proposition is decent, given the relatively affordable price point. However, the installation requirements and potential for finish wear may not justify the cost for all users.
Would I personally recommend it? With reservations. If you’re comfortable with the drilling and tapping process and prioritize the integrated Picatinny rail, it’s a viable option. Otherwise, exploring non-permanent shell carrier alternatives may be more prudent.
Consider your needs and weigh the pros and cons before taking the plunge. If the Monstrum Mossberg 20-Gauge Shell Carrier with Picatinny Rail Mount aligns with your requirements, it can be a valuable addition to your shotgun setup.