Why the MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11 Might Be Right for You
The MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11 is a practical organizer designed for shotgun enthusiasts, combining storage for both ammunition and essential choke tubes in a single, accessible unit. It aims to streamline the process of managing your shooting gear, particularly for those who frequently switch loads or chokes. This model caught my eye as I was looking for a more organized way to transport my shotgun shells and a set of frequently used chokes to the range, something more robust than flimsy cardboard boxes and less cumbersome than multiple individual containers.
My previous method involved a mix of original shotshell boxes and a separate, often misplaced, pouch for chokes. This system was chaotic, leading to fumbled loads and wasted time during practice sessions. The idea of a dedicated, all-in-one case promised a significant improvement in range day efficiency. I was initially drawn to its utilitarian design and the promise of keeping everything neatly contained.
While I considered a few other dedicated ammo carriers, most were either too large, too specialized for only shells, or lacked a dedicated choke tube compartment. The MTM box seemed to strike a good balance between capacity and portability. My initial impression upon handling the unit was one of functional plastic construction; it felt sturdy enough for its intended purpose, though not overly premium.
Real-World Testing: Putting MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, a familiar environment for me. I packed the box with several different 12-gauge loads and my collection of common chokes. The forest green color, while not critical for performance, made it easy to spot among my other gear in the dimly lit range bag.
The convenience of having shells and chokes together was immediately apparent. I tested it under typical range conditions, involving repeated opening and closing, and placing it on various surfaces. It handled light dust and the general bumps of transport without issue.
The box opened intuitively, with the shell compartments designed for easy access. However, the latching system felt somewhat less robust than I would have liked, which was a minor surprise. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but it was the first point that raised a slight concern about long-term durability under rougher handling.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past seven years, this MTM box has become a staple for my range days. It has held up reasonably well to consistent use, enduring trips to the range probably hundreds of times. I’ve even used it as a makeshift bench organizer at times, which was not its intended purpose but highlights its versatility.
Despite numerous openings and closings, the main structure of the box remains intact with no visible cracks or significant wear. The polypropylene material has proven resilient to minor impacts and scuffs. However, the latching mechanism, as I noted early on, has remained a point of mild concern; it hasn’t failed catastrophically, but it doesn’t inspire absolute confidence for extreme conditions.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. I haven’t needed to perform any specific upkeep beyond this. Compared to flimsy cardboard boxes that degrade quickly, or overly complex hard cases, this MTM unit offers a good middle ground in terms of durability and ease of care for its intended role.
Breaking Down the Features of MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11
Specifications
The MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11 is constructed from durable polypropylene, a common and reliable plastic for ammunition storage. It’s specifically designed for 12 gauge shotshells, with a configuration that allows for easy access to four different loads. The box also features a detachable inner case for choke tubes, capable of holding up to nine tubes, along with space for factory wrenches and choke lubricant.
These specifications translate into practical benefits for shotgun owners. The polypropylene ensures resistance to common environmental factors like moisture and moderate impacts. The capacity for four different loads and nine chokes means you can tailor your gear precisely for a variety of shooting situations, whether at the trap and skeet range or in the field. The inclusion of space for tools and lube adds to its all-in-one convenience.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary role of organizing shotshells and chokes, this MTM box performs competently. The shell compartment allows you to leave original factory boxes partially open for quick selection, which is a clever design element. The detachable choke tube case keeps your chosen chokes secure and readily accessible.
Its main strength lies in consolidating these two crucial components into a single, manageable unit. However, the performance is somewhat hampered by the aforementioned latching system. While it works, it lacks the satisfying ‘click’ and secure feel of higher-quality latches. This means that while it can hold your gear, you might feel a slight hesitation if you’re prone to throwing your gear around.
Considering its price point, the functionality is generally good, but it doesn’t necessarily exceed expectations in terms of robustness. It meets the basic need for organization effectively, but those looking for a rugged, heavy-duty solution might find it slightly lacking.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the MTM box is classic MTM: functional, no-nonsense plastic construction. The forest green color is a nice aesthetic touch, blending well with outdoor gear. The overall feel is that of a practical, utilitarian item.
Ergonomically, it’s designed for ease of use. The shell box portions are open enough for quick access, and the detachable choke tube carrier is easy to pull out and reinsert. The polypropylene material offers a decent grip, preventing it from sliding too easily.
A minor ergonomic point is the size of the choke tube compartment; while it holds nine tubes, very thick or extended chokes might present a snug fit. The main box itself is compact enough to fit within larger range bags or be carried on its own.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the polypropylene construction of the MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11 offers good durability for typical indoor and outdoor range use. It has survived years of service without any major structural failures, which speaks to the material’s resilience.
Maintenance is minimal; a quick rinse or wipe-down is usually sufficient. There are no complex mechanisms to clean or maintain, making it very user-friendly in this regard. The potential point of failure, as repeatedly mentioned, is the latching system, which might be susceptible to wear over extended periods of heavy use or in harsh conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11 comes with its integrated detachable choke tube case. This case is designed to hold up to nine choke tubes, and it also includes dedicated spots for choke wrenches and lubricant.
There aren’t many external customization options beyond choosing the color, as the design is quite fixed. However, the detachable choke tube case itself offers a degree of modularity; you can choose which chokes to carry within it for a specific outing. The shell holding section is designed to accommodate standard 12-gauge shotshell boxes, allowing you to mix and match your ammunition choices from different manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11
Pros
- Convenient all-in-one design: Consolidates shotshells and choke tubes into a single, organized unit.
- Practical shell access: Allows 12 gauge shell boxes to be left open for rapid load changes.
- Ample choke storage: Detachable case holds up to nine choke tubes, plus tools and lube.
- Durable polypropylene construction: Polypropylene material is resilient to impacts and common environmental factors.
- Cost-effective organization: Offers a good balance of features and price for shooters seeking better gear management.
Cons
- Weak latching system: The latches feel less secure than desired, potentially leading to accidental openings under stress.
- Limited compatibility with aftermarket shell holders: Standard cardboard boxes fit well, but specialized stackers may prevent the box from closing.
- Basic build quality: While functional, the overall construction is utilitarian and lacks a premium feel.
Who Should Buy MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11?
This MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11 is an excellent choice for intermediate shotgun shooters who frequently visit the range or hunt and need a straightforward way to organize their ammunition and chokes. It’s perfect for those who use standard 12-gauge loads and a moderate selection of chokes for various disciplines like trap, skeet, or field shooting. If you’re tired of digging through separate containers for your shells and chokes, this model will significantly simplify your setup.
However, serious competitors or those who demand extreme ruggedness for harsh conditions might want to look at more robust, locking hard cases. Individuals using very specialized or oversized choke tubes might also find the internal dimensions a bit restrictive. If you’re looking for a sterile, lab-grade solution or something for extremely compact carry, this is not the product for you.
A useful complementary item would be a set of quality choke tube brushes and a small bottle of choke tube lubricant, as the MTM box has dedicated space for them. Ensuring you use standard cardboard shotshell boxes will also maximize its functionality.
Conclusion on MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11
The MTM Shotshell And Choke Tube Box Forest Green SW100-11 delivers on its promise of organized shotgun gear management at a very accessible price point. Its combination of shell access and choke tube storage in a single unit is a practical solution for many shooters. The polypropylene construction has proven reliable over years of use, and the thoughtful design for quick access is genuinely helpful on the range.
While the price of $29.69 is very reasonable for the convenience it offers, the somewhat flimsy latching system is a notable compromise. It’s a functional box that gets the job done for its intended purpose, but it doesn’t quite exude the bomb-proof security some might desire.
Overall, I would recommend this MTM box to any shotgunner looking for a simple, effective, and budget-friendly way to keep their shells and chokes organized. Just be mindful of the latches, and you’ll likely find it a welcome addition to your shooting kit.