Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch Review

The Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch Review No One Else Gives You

As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments – from dusty workshops to meticulously organized labs, and from rugged outdoor trails to challenging field conditions – I’ve developed a keen eye for what truly performs. The Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch, a seemingly simple piece of equipment, landed on my bench during a particularly busy period of trap and skeet shooting. I was constantly fumbling for a place to put my spent shells, my pockets overflowing and creating unnecessary distractions. I needed a dedicated, easily accessible solution that wouldn’t break the bank.

My search led me to a few options, but many were overly bulky or made from materials that looked like they’d disintegrate after a few outings. I considered a more robust tactical dump pouch, but it felt like overkill for the casual shooter. The Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shotgun Shell Pouch 423RS stood out for its focused design and material promises. My initial impression upon holding it was one of practical utility; it felt lightweight but surprisingly well-constructed, with a sensible combination of nylon and mesh. It offered a refreshing sense of immediate purpose, a departure from overly complex or feature-laden alternatives.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch to the Test

First Use Experience

I first took this shell pouch to the local shooting range for an afternoon of trap shooting. The scenario was straightforward: fire, eject, and stow the spent shell. I wanted to see how quickly and easily I could deposit empties without looking away from the action or fumbling.

During the session, which involved hundreds of rounds fired over several hours, the pouch performed admirably in varying light conditions. It was attached to my belt, and the spring-loaded opening meant I could reliably drop shells into it with minimal effort, even while my focus remained on the target. While I didn’t intentionally expose it to heavy moisture, it handled the slight ambient humidity and dust kicked up on the range without any issue. The ease of use was immediately apparent; there was no learning curve, just a simple, effective solution to a common problem.

My only minor surprise was how quickly the pouch filled up, a testament to its capacity rather than a failing of its design. It became clear that for extended shooting sessions, managing the empties was an integral part of the process.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of a few months, this dedicated empties pouch became a constant companion for my clay shooting pursuits. It accompanied me to multiple range days, each involving hundreds of shells. I also found it surprisingly useful for other quick-stow needs around the workshop, like holding small nuts and bolts during assembly.

Despite frequent use, the durability has been impressive. The Ripstop nylon and mesh construction shows minimal signs of wear. There are no cracks, stiffness, or performance drops. The riveted construction that caught my eye initially seems to be holding up perfectly, with no loose seams or stress points.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick shake usually dislodges any debris, and if it gets genuinely dirty, a rinse with water and air drying is all that’s needed. I haven’t experienced any leaks or material degradation, even after being stuffed into gear bags. Compared to cheaper alternatives I’ve used in the past that quickly became misshapen or developed holes, this Bob Allen pouch feels like it’s built for longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch

Specifications

The Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch is constructed from a durable blend of Ripstop nylon and mesh. This combination is crucial for its intended purpose, offering both strength and breathability. The overall design centers around a spring opening bottom compartment that is engineered to hold approximately 100 empties.

This capacity means it can easily handle a significant number of spent shotgun shells, reducing the need for frequent emptying during a shooting session. The riveted construction speaks to a commitment to strength and durability, ensuring the critical stress points are well-supported. The choice of materials also contributes to its lightweight nature, making it comfortable to wear without adding unnecessary bulk.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch is to collect spent shells, and it excels at this task. Its wide opening and spring mechanism allow for quick, one-handed disposal of empties, which is vital when you’re focused on follow-up shots. The ability to hold around 100 empties means fewer interruptions, allowing for longer shooting sequences.

Its main strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness; it does exactly what it’s designed to do without fuss. The mesh allows for drainage of any moisture, and the durable nylon prevents snagging or tearing. I haven’t encountered any significant weaknesses, though for extreme scenarios, one might wish for a more secure closure if the pouch were to be inverted forcefully.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this shell pouch is purely functional, prioritizing ease of access and capacity. The Ripstop nylon and mesh blend feels robust, with the nylon forming the main body and reinforced points while the mesh allows for ventilation and weight reduction. The riveted connection points are a smart choice for reinforcing areas that will experience stress from weight and repeated use.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be worn on a belt, and its relatively slim profile when not fully loaded makes it unobtrusive. The spring-loaded opening is responsive and intuitive, requiring only a gentle push to access the interior. There’s no learning curve; you simply drop your empties in.

Durability & Maintenance

This pouch is built to last. The Ripstop nylon is inherently resistant to tearing, and the mesh is durable enough to withstand regular use. The riveted construction is a key indicator of its intended longevity, suggesting it can handle the weight of 100 empties repeatedly without failing.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick shake to clear debris and occasional rinsing is all that’s needed. The materials are resistant to mildew and rot, which is beneficial if the pouch gets damp. There are no complex parts to break or service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch is a standalone item; it does not come with any additional accessories. Its design is not geared towards extensive customization in the way some tactical gear might be.

However, its practicality can be enhanced by pairing it with a sturdy belt that can comfortably support the weight of 100 empties. Its basic design means it integrates seamlessly with most standard shooting vests or range bags without requiring specific attachments.

Pros and Cons of Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch

Who Should Buy Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch?

This Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch is ideal for recreational trap and skeet shooters, or anyone who frequently shoots shotguns and needs a dedicated place for spent shells. It’s perfect for those who value practical, no-nonsense gear that performs its function reliably without unnecessary complexity. If you’re tired of filling your pockets with empties or constantly searching for a bin, this pouch is a straightforward solution.

Those who require a pouch with a secure closure to prevent spillage, or who need a larger capacity for extended hunting trips or competitions, might want to look at more specialized tactical dump pouches. For casual range days or standard shooting outings, however, this model is perfectly suited. A good, sturdy belt is the only real complementary item that enhances its usability.

Conclusion on Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch

The Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch is a prime example of a product that does one thing exceptionally well. For its modest price of $19.08, it delivers on its promise of providing a durable, accessible, and sufficiently capacious solution for collecting spent shotgun shells. The Ripstop nylon and mesh construction, combined with the riveted build, suggests it will provide reliable service for many shooting seasons to come.

Its simple, intuitive design with the spring opening bottom compartment makes it a joy to use, allowing shooters to maintain focus on their sport. While it lacks a secure closure, this is a minor point for its intended use on a shooting range or during a typical outing. I would readily recommend the Bob Allen Mesh Empties Shell Pouch to any shotgun enthusiast looking for an affordable, effective, and well-made accessory to enhance their shooting experience. It’s a practical buy that solves a common problem effectively.