Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic Review

Full Disclosure: Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic

The pursuit of efficiency and environmental responsibility in the field often leads to specialized tools, and the Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic is a prime example. This compact device promises to simplify the often tedious task of collecting spent shotgun hulls, a practice that is not only good etiquette but also crucial for maintaining access to hunting grounds. My initial impression upon receiving this retriever was one of practical ingenuity. It feels surprisingly robust for its size, constructed from what appears to be durable, lightweight materials. I considered a few other options, including a more traditional, longer-handled retriever that wouldn’t fit in a pocket, but the appeal of a truly portable solution won me over. It’s a welcome addition for anyone serious about fieldcraft.

Real-World Testing: Putting Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic was on a crisp autumn morning at a local sporting clays course. The grounds were still damp from an overnight dew, presenting a perfect, albeit slightly muddy, scenario. The retriever unfolded smoothly, snapping into place with reassuring clicks. I found it surprisingly intuitive; there was no need to consult a manual. Simply extend, and it’s ready for action. My initial surprise came from just how many hulls it could gather in a single sweep, easily picking up a half-dozen brass-cased empties from the damp ground without much effort.

Over several hours of clay shooting, I encountered various terrains, from mown grass to slightly uneven dirt paths. The magnetic retriever performed admirably across all of them. Even when hulls were partially obscured by grass or nestled in shallow divots, the magnetic pull was strong enough to draw them in. One minor quirk I noticed was that it was slightly less effective on hulls with very thick polymer bases, but this was an exception rather than the rule. The compact nature meant I could easily store it in a vest pocket between stands, making it readily accessible.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks turned into a couple of months, and this pocket pick stick became a regular fixture in my range bag. I’ve used it extensively at skeet, trap, and sporting clays events, as well as during a few upland bird hunts where shotgun usage is more common. It has held up remarkably well to repeated use. The telescoping shaft still extends and retracts smoothly, and the magnetic head hasn’t shown any signs of weakness or degradation.

The only signs of wear are minor cosmetic scuffs on the shaft from being jostled around in my bag, but these have no impact on its functionality. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after a muddy session is usually sufficient. The shock cord system that holds the collapsed sections together has remained taut, and there’s no indication of it becoming loose. Compared to past experiences with less robust retrieval tools, its durability is a significant advantage.

Breaking Down the Features of Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic

Specifications

The Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic is designed for ultimate portability and ease of use. Its most notable feature is its collapsible design, which allows it to shrink down to a mere 10 1/2 inches. This compact size is achieved through a clever use of double shock cord snaps that secure the sections when folded. The manufacturer, Mojo, states the product dimensions as 2.30 x 3.80 x 12.05 inches when fully extended.

The core functionality relies on a powerful magnetic head specifically engineered to attract and lift empty shotgun hulls. This magnetic attraction is designed to make the hulls “walk” up the shaft, enabling the user to collect multiple casings simultaneously. The retriever also includes a mesh bag for convenient storage and transport, fitting easily into a pocket or blind bag. These specifications translate directly into a user experience characterized by extreme portability and efficient hull collection.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this shell retriever is to gather spent shotgun hulls, and it does this exceptionally well. The magnetic head is the star of the show, demonstrating a surprisingly strong pull, easily snagging brass and steel casings from a variety of surfaces. I found it particularly effective on relatively flat terrain where hulls lie exposed. It truly lives up to the “walking up the side” description, with multiple hulls clinging to the shaft as it’s retracted.

The major strength of this retriever is its unparalleled portability and speed. It allows for swift cleanup of a shooting area, making it a responsible choice for any shooter. A minor weakness, however, is its performance in deeply overgrown or uneven terrain where hulls can become deeply embedded or obscured. In such situations, more traditional methods or a bit more manual searching might be required.

Design & Ergonomics

From a design perspective, the Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic prioritizes function and portability. The collapsible shaft is a brilliant piece of engineering, allowing it to shrink down to a pocketable size without sacrificing structural integrity when extended. The materials feel durable, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

Ergonomically, it’s straightforward. The telescoping sections lock securely into place, providing a comfortable grip for sweeping across the ground. The magnetic head is well-balanced with the shaft, making it easy to maneuver. While there’s no complex control or adjustment, the simplicity is part of its charm and usability. The included mesh bag is a thoughtful addition, keeping the collapsed retriever contained and ready for immediate deployment.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic appears built for the long haul, at least for its intended purpose. The shock-corded telescoping sections are robust and show no signs of fraying or loosening even after significant use. The magnetic head is securely affixed and shows no signs of its magnetic properties diminishing.

Maintenance is almost non-existent. After a day in the field, a quick rinse or wipe is all that’s typically needed to keep it clean and functional. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, but like any tool with moving parts, prolonged exposure to harsh elements without basic care could eventually lead to issues. For instance, heavy grit or mud left to dry could potentially impede the smooth operation of the telescoping sections over time.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic comes with one primary accessory: a mesh bag. This bag is crucial for keeping the collapsed retriever tidy and easily accessible, fitting neatly into a larger gear bag or even a spacious pocket.

Beyond the included mesh bag, there are no real customization options for this particular retriever. Its design is focused on its core function, and it performs that function effectively without needing add-ons or modifications. It is designed as a standalone tool for shell retrieval.

Pros and Cons of Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic

Who Should Buy Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic?

This retriever is an absolute must-have for any shotgun shooter who values responsible field practices and efficient cleanup. It’s perfect for sporting clays enthusiasts, skeet and trap shooters, and upland bird hunters who frequently use shotguns. Anyone who wants to ensure they leave a shooting area cleaner than they found it, and perhaps avoid fines or losing access to hunting leases, will find immense value here.

However, if you primarily shoot rifles or handguns where hull retrieval isn’t typically an issue, or if you frequently hunt in extremely dense brush where shell casings are almost impossible to locate, this particular tool might be overkill. For those who do decide to purchase it, ensuring you always use the included mesh bag will help prevent the retriever from snagging on other gear and maintain its clean, functional state.

Conclusion on Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic

The Mojo Pocket Pick Stick Shotgun Shell Retriever Magnetic delivers on its promise of a portable, effective solution for shotgun hull retrieval. Its clever collapsible design makes it a truly grab-and-go item, while its powerful magnetic head efficiently collects spent casings. While it may have limitations in extremely dense undergrowth, its performance in typical shooting environments is excellent.

Considering its robust build and the significant convenience it offers, the price point of $37.99 represents good value. It’s a tool that directly addresses a common need for responsible shooters. I would absolutely recommend this retriever to any shotgunner looking to simplify their cleanup routine and demonstrate respect for the environment and landowners. It’s a small investment for a significant improvement in field etiquette and efficiency.