AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier Review

Here’s What I Think of the AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier

As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear in every conceivable environment – from the sterile precision of a lab to the gritty reality of a workshop, and out in the field under unpredictable skies – I’ve developed a keen eye for what works and what’s just marketing fluff. That’s why, when I found myself needing a quick, accessible way to keep extra shotgun shells at the ready, my search led me to the AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier. This seemingly simple piece of polymer and aluminum promised to streamline my shotgun’s utility, and for its incredibly low price point, it was an offer I couldn’t refuse.

The need arose during a recent session at the range. While practicing with my Maverick 88, a firearm that, frankly, has seen better days but still holds a special place, I found myself wishing for faster reloads, especially in simulated close-quarters scenarios. Reaching for my ammo pouch felt like an eternity. I considered a few other options, including more complex side saddle systems, but their bulk and higher cost seemed like overkill for my specific application.

My initial impression upon unboxing this shell carrier was one of pleasant surprise. The polymer itself felt robust enough, not brittle, and the aluminum mounting plate offered a reassuring heft. It felt like a solid, no-nonsense piece of kit designed for function over flash, which is exactly what I look for.

It’s not every day you find a piece of gear that instills a sense of immediate satisfaction, but this little accessory managed it. It was clear from the get-go that this AIM Sports Inc offering aimed to solve a common problem efficiently.

Real-World Testing: Putting AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier to the Test

My testing primarily took place at a local indoor shooting range, specifically focusing on drills that simulate rapid response and sustained fire. I mounted it to my Maverick 88, a shotgun commonly associated with the Mossberg 500/590 platform, to see how it would integrate. The conditions were typical for range use: controlled environment, consistent lighting, and moderate temperature.

First Use Experience

The installation was, for the most part, straightforward. The quick-detach design, coupled with the included hardware, made it a relatively painless affair. I was able to get it attached and loaded with six 12-gauge shells within a matter of minutes. The shells seated firmly in their elastic loops, feeling secure and ready for immediate deployment.

However, my initial foray into using it during a live-fire exercise revealed a minor learning curve. While the shells are held tightly, the act of pulling a shell free and chambering it requires a deliberate, practiced motion. It’s not as instantaneous as, say, a magazine change on a rifle. This is less a fault of the carrier itself and more an inherent aspect of shotgun reloading, but it’s worth noting for anyone expecting near-magical speed.

One particular moment stands out: during a rapid fire sequence, I performed a reload. While it was faster than fumbling in a pouch, the slight awkwardness of the grip and pull was noticeable. It wasn’t a failure, but it highlighted that while this carrier offers improved access, it still demands a degree of proficiency to leverage its full potential. I also noticed that over several reloads, the elastic loops remained snug, showing no immediate signs of stretching or wear.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range days and a couple of weeks of the carrier being mounted on my shotgun, its reliability has proven consistent. It hasn’t loosened, shifted, or displayed any signs of degradation. The polymer shows minor scuff marks from being handled, but nothing that compromises its integrity or function.

Durability has been surprisingly good, especially considering its budget-friendly nature. I haven’t encountered any cracks or material fatigue, which is a common issue with less robust polymers. The aluminum mounting plate has resisted scratches, though I suspect a hard drop would likely mar its finish.

Maintenance is practically non-existent, which is a significant plus. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean from range dust. For any serious user, the simplicity of care is a welcome relief. Compared to previous, bulkier shell carriers I’ve used, this AIM Sports Inc model is far less cumbersome and requires zero upkeep. It just works, holding those shells reliably without fuss.

Breaking Down the Features of AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier

The AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier is a straightforward accessory designed to enhance the ammunition-carrying capacity and accessibility of shotguns. Its design prioritizes simplicity and effectiveness, making it a practical addition for many firearm enthusiasts.

Specifications

This shell carrier is crafted from black polymer for the main body that holds the shells, providing a durable yet flexible platform. The mounting plate, a critical component for attaching it to the shotgun receiver, is made of black anodized aluminum, offering a robust and corrosion-resistant connection.

It boasts the capacity to hold up to six 12-gauge shotgun shells. The overall dimensions are approximately 7 inches in length and 2.4 inches in width, making it a relatively compact addition that doesn’t add excessive bulk. Its weight is listed at 5.03 oz, which is quite light and won’t noticeably affect the handling of most shotguns. A key feature is its quick detach design, allowing for swift removal or installation when needed. All necessary mounting hardware is included in the package, simplifying the purchase-to-installation process.

These specifications translate directly into user benefits. The six-round capacity is sufficient for most tactical or competition scenarios without being overly cumbersome. The polymer and aluminum construction suggests a balance of resilience and weight savings, important for a firearm accessory. The quick detach design is invaluable for users who might need to remove the carrier for cleaning, storage, or to switch between different configurations.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier is to provide readily accessible extra ammunition. In this regard, it performs its primary job admirably. The elastic loops hold 12-gauge shells securely, preventing them from rattling or falling out, even during vigorous movement or recoil. The shells are presented at an angle that is generally ergonomic for a quick draw.

Its main strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It does exactly what it’s designed to do: keep six shells within easy reach. The quick detach feature is also a significant functional advantage, allowing for fast removal without tools if the situation demands it.

However, its performance is not without minor limitations. While the shells are accessible, the process of physically removing a shell and chambering it is still a manual skill that requires practice. It’s faster than reaching into a pouch, but it doesn’t eliminate the inherent steps of a shotgun reload. For users accustomed to even faster reloads on other firearm types, there might be a slight adjustment period.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this shell carrier is fundamentally practical. The black polymer finish is understated and blends well with most shotgun aesthetics. The aluminum mounting plate feels solid and well-machined, ensuring a secure fit to the shotgun’s receiver.

Ergonomically, it positions the shells in a way that is generally intuitive. Most users will find that they can reach for a shell without looking, especially after a few practice runs. The angle of the shells within the elastic loops seems to facilitate a natural grasp.

A potential minor ergonomic quibble could be the thickness of the unit once mounted. While not excessively bulky, it does add a profile to the side of the receiver. This is a trade-off inherent in all side-saddle shell carriers. The use of elastic for the loops is a common and effective choice, providing a snug fit for various shell lengths within the 12-gauge standard, though very slick shells might require a slightly firmer grip to extract initially.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, the durability of this carrier appears to be quite good for its price point. The polymer has shown no signs of becoming brittle, and the anodized aluminum plate has resisted superficial damage. The elastic loops, which are often the first point of failure in such accessories, have remained taut and secure.

Maintenance is exceptionally simple. A damp cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning off dust and powder residue. There are no complex parts to clean or lubricate, making it a very low-maintenance accessory.

The main potential concern for long-term durability might lie with the attachment screws if they are repeatedly removed and reinstalled, given the softer nature of aluminum compared to steel. However, for a user who intends to keep it mounted or use the quick-detach feature sparingly, longevity should not be an issue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier comes with all the necessary mounting hardware, which is a significant plus, eliminating the need for an additional purchase. Beyond the included screws and any associated washers or spacers, there are no other included accessories.

Customization options are limited to the accessories you might already have or wish to add to your shotgun itself. This shell carrier is designed to be a self-contained unit. Its primary function is to hold shells, and it doesn’t interface with other accessories in a customizable way. However, the quick detach design does allow for easy removal if you want to swap it out for a different accessory or simply run your shotgun without it.

Pros and Cons of AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier

Who Should Buy AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier?

This shell carrier is an ideal choice for budget-conscious shotgun owners who need to increase their onboard ammunition capacity without significant investment. It’s perfect for range shooters, casual competitors, and those involved in home defense scenarios where quick access to a few extra rounds is beneficial. If you own a Mossberg 500/590 series shotgun, or compatible models, and want a no-frills, functional upgrade, this is a solid option.

However, serious competitive shooters who require the absolute fastest reloads or those who need to carry a larger number of shells might want to look at higher-capacity or more specialized systems. Also, users with specific firearms that have unique receiver pin configurations (like some Remington 870 variants) should verify compatibility or be prepared for potential minor fitting adjustments. For users prioritizing extreme compactness or a perfectly flush profile, other solutions might be better suited.

For those who opt for this carrier, I’d recommend practicing your reloads. Spending some time on the range to get a feel for the pull and chambering motion will make a significant difference.

Conclusion on AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier

The AIM Sports Inc 6 Round Side Shell Carrier delivers a commendable level of functionality and convenience at an astonishingly low price. For what it costs, it offers a tangible improvement in ammunition accessibility for shotguns, proving itself to be a practical and reliable accessory. The combination of a durable polymer shell holder and a sturdy aluminum mounting plate, along with the essential inclusion of all hardware, makes it a complete package for its intended purpose.

Its value proposition is undeniable; it provides a capability usually found in more expensive accessories for a fraction of the cost. While it may not offer the highest capacity or the absolute fastest reloading interface on the market, it strikes an excellent balance between performance, ease of use, and affordability.

I would recommend this AIM Sports Inc model to anyone looking for a straightforward, effective way to carry six extra shotgun shells. It’s a smart buy for recreational shooters, home defenders, and anyone who wants to enhance their shotgun’s utility without emptying their wallet. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, budget-friendly addition to your firearm, this shell carrier is definitely worth considering.