MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray Review

The Real-Use Review: MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray

In the world of reloading and ammunition management, organization is paramount. For anyone engaged in the precise art of crafting their own 20-gauge shotshells, or simply needing an efficient way to transport and store them, the MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray emerges as a practical, albeit humble, solution. My own journey to this particular tray was born from a growing frustration with loose shells cluttering my reloading bench and creating potential safety hazards. Existing, less structured storage methods were proving to be inadequate, often leading to dropped rounds and wasted time.

Upon receiving the tray, my initial impression was one of straightforward utility. It’s constructed from a hardy polypropylene, feeling solid and unyielding to the touch. There’s no pretense of advanced engineering here; it’s a tool designed for a specific purpose, and its construction reflects that. I considered a few other generic plastic ammo boxes, but the specifically designed shell slots of the MTM tray promised a more secure fit. My immediate reaction was a quiet sense of satisfaction, a feeling that a small but persistent organizational challenge was about to be resolved.

Real-World Testing: Putting MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray to the Test

My testing environment for this shell tray was primarily my dedicated reloading bench, a space that sees regular use but is often subject to the inevitable dust and minor spills of propellant and shot. I also utilized it for transporting loaded shells to the patterning range. The tray’s intended use is quite clear: holding cartridges securely and facilitating their transport.

First Use Experience

The first time I loaded the MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray, it was a simple, intuitive process. The 20-gauge shells slid easily into their designated slots, seating with a satisfying little click. There was no learning curve; it performed exactly as expected from the moment I took it out of its packaging. In terms of conditions, it remained on my bench, exposed to ambient workshop temperatures and the occasional puff of dust from other operations. It handled these minor environmental factors without any discernible change in performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of continuous use on my reloading bench, and multiple trips to the range, the tray has held up exceptionally well. I have loaded and unloaded it dozens of times, and the polypropylene material shows no signs of cracking or becoming brittle. The shell slots remain firm, holding each 20-gauge cartridge securely without excessive pressure, which is crucial for avoiding dented primers or deformed shells. Maintenance is practically non-existent; a quick wipe with a dry cloth is all that’s ever needed, and it stores neatly stacked with other MTM trays in my reloading area. Compared to the flimsy, generic plastic containers I’ve used in the past, this dedicated tray offers superior organization and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray

Specifications

The MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray is precisely what its name suggests: a container designed to hold fifty 20-gauge shotgun shells. It’s constructed from a durable polypropylene, a material known for its resilience and resistance to chemicals, which is a welcome trait in a reloading environment. The tray measures approximately 13.5 inches long by 6.25 inches wide and 1.5 inches high, making it a substantial yet manageable size for bench storage or transport. Its design is intentionally simple, focusing on functionality. The individual shell pockets are molded to fit 20-gauge shells snugly, preventing them from rattling around or tipping over.

This specific design aspect is critical for shooters who are meticulous about their ammunition. Unlike bulk storage containers where shells can jostle, potentially causing damage or leading to misfires, these individual slots offer a protective buffer. The black color is standard and unobtrusive, blending well into most workshop or range bag setups. The fact that it’s a 50-round capacity tray strikes a good balance between holding a useful quantity of ammunition and maintaining a reasonable footprint.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray is to hold 50 rounds of 20-gauge shotgun shells, and it performs this task flawlessly. My loaded shells, regardless of their specific hull length (within standard 20-gauge parameters), fit securely in their respective pockets. There’s no undue pressure applied that could deform the hulls or primers, nor is there so much slop that they would fall out if tilted. This reliability is paramount, especially when transporting ammunition to a shooting location where spilled shells are not only inconvenient but also a safety concern.

One of the most significant strengths is its stackable design. MTM trays are engineered to interlock securely, allowing for efficient vertical storage. This feature dramatically enhances organization in my reloading space, turning what was once a cluttered area into a neatly arranged system. The only potential weakness, though minor, is that the plastic, while durable, can be somewhat prone to scratching if dragged across abrasive surfaces, though this is purely aesthetic and doesn’t impact function. Overall, it exceeds expectations for its intended purpose and price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray is purely utilitarian, focusing on maximum shell capacity and stackability. The polypropylene construction provides a solid feel, and the matte black finish is practical, resisting fingerprints and minor scuffs better than a glossy surface might. Each shell pocket is precisely molded, ensuring a consistent fit for 20-gauge shells.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be handled, not necessarily to fit perfectly in the hand for extended carrying. Its rectangular shape and lack of any molded grips mean it’s best transported with both hands or placed on a surface. However, for its intended use as a bench organizer or a secure item within a larger range bag or case, the design is perfectly suited. The edges are smooth, so there are no sharp points to snag on clothing or gear.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray is built to last for years of moderate to heavy use. The polypropylene material is inherently tough and resistant to cracking, even when subjected to the occasional accidental drop onto a concrete workshop floor, which I can attest to. The molded shell pockets have maintained their shape and rigidity, showing no signs of wear even after repeated loading and unloading cycles.

Maintenance is virtually non-existent. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove any dust or debris. There are no complex parts to clean or maintain, making it an ideal low-maintenance accessory for any shooter. Potential failure points are minimal; the most likely issue would be extreme impact causing a crack, but the material’s resilience makes this unlikely under normal circumstances.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray comes as a standalone unit, with no included accessories. Its primary function is singular: to hold shells. However, its true value lies in its stackable design; these trays are meant to be purchased in multiples and interlocked to create a modular ammunition storage system. This allows users to expand their organized shell storage as needed, creating customized configurations for different calibers or types of ammunition. While there are no direct customization options for the tray itself in terms of colors or features (it’s a straightforward black unit), its compatibility with other MTM shell trays of similar dimensions makes it highly versatile.

Pros and Cons of MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray

Who Should Buy MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray?

This tray is an excellent choice for anyone involved in reloading 20-gauge shotgun shells. It is particularly well-suited for reloaders who want to keep their newly-crated ammunition organized and ready for their next range trip or hunt. Sporting clays enthusiasts and hunters who use 20-gauge shotguns will also find this tray invaluable for organizing their practice ammunition and hunting loads. It’s also a great option for individuals who simply want to maintain a more orderly and efficient shooting gear setup.

Those who need a highly portable, individual ammunition carrier might want to look elsewhere; this tray is designed more for static organization or transport within a larger system. Anyone looking for a premium, high-capacity solution might also consider larger ammo cans, though they would sacrifice the individual shell protection and modular stacking. For users who value practical organization, durability, and affordability, the MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray is a solid recommendation. A must-have accessory would be additional trays to build a comprehensive storage system.

Conclusion on MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray

The MTM 50 Round 20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Tray is a no-frills, highly effective tool for anyone managing 20-gauge shotgun ammunition. Its primary strengths lie in its secure shell retention, durable construction, and incredibly useful stackable design, which significantly enhances organization. For its modest price, the value proposition is undeniable; it provides a robust and reliable way to store and manage your reloaded or purchased shells, preventing clutter and protecting your ammunition.

I can wholeheartedly recommend this tray to reloaders and shotgunners who prioritize practical organization and durability. It’s a simple yet ingenious product that performs its intended function exceptionally well. If you’re looking to bring order to your reloading bench or streamline your ammunition transport, this tray, and others in the MTM line, are an investment that pays dividends in efficiency and peace of mind.