My Real Take on the Pro Mag Shell Holder For Mossberg 500/590 Shotguns Holds 7 Rounds Black AA113
For years, I’ve been the guy who fiddles with gear, always looking for that perfect blend of function and form, especially when it comes to my firearms. My trusty Mossberg 500 is a prime example of this – a solid, reliable workhorse that’s seen more than its fair share of action, from defensive drills in my backyard range to some rather tense nights at home. The challenge with any shotgun, particularly for home defense or quick-response scenarios, is ammunition accessibility. Fumbling for extra shells from a pouch or pocket is simply not an option when seconds count. This is precisely what led me to seek out a reliable side-saddle shell carrier, and my search ultimately landed me on the Pro Mag Shell Holder For Mossberg 500/590 Shotguns Holds 7 Rounds Black AA113.
I remember one particularly frustrating evening during a defensive practice session where the need for faster reloads became glaringly obvious. My standard-issue ammo carrier was just too cumbersome, slowing me down when it mattered most. I’d considered a few options, including some bulkier, less refined designs, but the price point and the promise of a streamlined solution from ProMag caught my eye. The idea of having seven extra rounds readily accessible, without adding excessive weight or bulk, felt like a significant upgrade.
Upon arrival, the first impression of this shell holder was one of robust construction. The carbon fiber filled polymer felt substantial, and the anodized aluminum mounting plate hinted at a design built to withstand use. It wasn’t flashy, but it felt purposeful and well-engineered, a stark contrast to some of the flimsy plastic alternatives I’d encountered. My initial thought was a quiet sense of optimism; this might just be the answer to my reload woes.
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for this shell holder were, fittingly, my own shooting range and my home. The setup process was straightforward, attaching to the existing pinhole on my Mossberg 500 receiver. This use of existing hardware meant no drilling or permanent modifications, which is always a win in my book.
Loading the holder for the first time was intuitive. The patent-pending retention system allows for individual adjustment of shell tension, a feature I truly appreciated. This meant I could dial in the perfect snugness for each 12-gauge shell, ensuring they stayed put without requiring excessive force to extract. It felt secure, even when cycling the shotgun rapidly, and the rounds stayed firmly in place.
During my first extended range session, I deliberately put this side-saddle through its paces. I performed multiple rapid reloads, simulating high-stress scenarios. The shells came free smoothly and consistently, with no binding or snagging. The holder itself remained stable against the receiver, without any signs of shifting or loosening, even after a few hundred rounds downrange.
Extended Use & Reliability
Weeks turned into months, and this shell holder became a permanent fixture on my Mossberg 500. It’s become so integral to the shotgun’s setup that I barely notice it’s there, until I need it. It has endured countless practice drills, periods of sitting in its safe, and the occasional bump during handling.
The durability of the carbon fiber filled polymer has impressed me. Despite being bumped against doorframes and furniture during home defense drills, there are no significant scuffs or cracks. The anodized aluminum mount has also held up remarkably well, showing minimal wear. Even the rubber gasket on the mounting plate remains intact, doing its job of protecting the shotgun’s finish.
Compared to some of the cheaper, less refined shell carriers I’ve used in the past, this Pro Mag Shell Holder For Mossberg 500/590 Shotguns Holds 7 Rounds Black AA113 has proven its worth. Those older, generic mounts often loosened over time or struggled to hold shells securely; this one, however, maintains its integrity. It’s a testament to thoughtful design and quality materials that it performs just as reliably today as it did on day one.
Breaking Down the Features of Pro Mag Shell Holder For Mossberg 500/590 Shotguns Holds 7 Rounds Black AA113
Specifications
The Pro Mag Shell Holder For Mossberg 500/590 Shotguns Holds 7 Rounds Black AA113 is designed to hold seven 12-gauge shells. Its primary construction material is a super tough carbon fiber filled polymer, which contributes to its light weight and significant durability. The mounting plate is crafted from anodized aluminum, providing a strong and corrosion-resistant connection point to the firearm.
A key feature is the patent pending retention system that allows for adjustable tension on each individual shell. This ensures a secure grip on the ammunition without making extraction difficult. The mounting plate includes a rubber gasket, specifically designed to prevent any damage to the firearm’s finish.
This side-saddle is engineered to fit Mossberg Model 590 and Mossberg Model 500 shotguns, making it a versatile option for many popular pump-action platforms. The all-black finish provides a low-profile aesthetic that blends well with most tactical or defensive firearms. This holder attaches using existing factory mounting points, negating the need for any permanent modifications to your shotgun.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its core function – holding and facilitating rapid access to spare shells – this unit performs exceptionally well. The seven-round capacity is generous without adding excessive bulk to the firearm. The adjustable retention system is a standout feature, allowing users to customize the grip on each shell for optimal security and ease of deployment.
The shells are held securely, even during vigorous handling or recoil, yet they can be drawn quickly and efficiently when needed. This balance between secure retention and swift access is crucial for a defensive firearm accessory. I found that the shells extract cleanly, with a positive feel that reassures you the round is coming free.
There are very few weaknesses to report. If I had to nitpick, the polymer might feel slightly less premium than some high-end aluminum competitors, but this is largely a cosmetic observation. For its intended purpose and price point, the performance and functionality are more than adequate, bordering on excellent.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this shell holder is commendably practical. The use of carbon fiber filled polymer gives it a rugged, utilitarian feel. The matte black finish is unobtrusive and resists glare, which is important in any firearm accessory.
Ergonomically, it’s designed to integrate seamlessly with the shotgun. It mounts flush against the receiver, maintaining a relatively slim profile that doesn’t significantly impede handling or storage. The shape of the individual shell slots is well-defined, guiding the shells into place and making them easy to grasp for reloads.
The anodized aluminum mounting plate with its rubber gasket is a thoughtful touch, showing attention to detail in preventing marring of the shotgun’s finish. This consideration for the firearm’s aesthetics and condition is a mark of good design. There’s no real learning curve; it’s a simple, effective add-on that enhances the usability of the shotgun immediately.
Durability & Maintenance
This accessory is built for durability. The carbon fiber filled polymer is inherently strong and resistant to impacts and environmental factors. I have not experienced any cracking, warping, or degradation of the material over extended use.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. If it gets particularly dirty from range debris or dust, a mild soap and water solution works perfectly. The anodized aluminum is also resistant to corrosion, so it doesn’t require special care.
The primary area to be mindful of is the screw attachment points; like any attachment to a firearm, ensuring screws remain snug over time is good practice. However, the design itself, particularly the robust polymer construction and solid aluminum mount, suggests a long service life. There are no obvious points of failure that would typically arise with lower-quality materials.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Pro Mag Shell Holder For Mossberg 500/590 Shotguns Holds 7 Rounds Black AA113 comes as a standalone unit. It does not include additional accessories in the package. Its primary “customization” lies within its adjustable retention system, allowing users to fine-tune how tightly the shells are held.
While it doesn’t offer inherent accessory mounting points, its purpose is to integrate with the firearm itself. It is compatible with most standard Mossberg 500/590 shotgun configurations that utilize the existing receiver pin for mounting. It is not designed for user-swappable parts like some modular firearm components, but its fixed design is part of its robust simplicity.
Pros and Cons of Pro Mag Shell Holder For Mossberg 500/590 Shotguns Holds 7 Rounds Black AA113
Pros
- Robust Construction: Built with super tough carbon fiber filled polymer and an anodized aluminum mounting plate for excellent durability.
- Adjustable Retention: The patent pending retention system allows for personalized tension on each shell, ensuring secure fit and easy access.
- Ample Capacity: Holds a useful seven rounds of 12-gauge ammunition within a slim profile.
- Non-Damaging Mount: Features a rubber gasket on the mounting plate to protect the firearm’s finish.
- Easy Installation: Attaches using existing factory pinholes, requiring no drilling or permanent modifications.
- Excellent Value: Offers high functionality and durability at a very affordable price point.
Cons
- Polymer Aesthetics: While durable, the polymer construction might not appeal to those seeking all-metal firearm accessories.
- Limited to Specific Models: Primarily designed for Mossberg 500/590 series; compatibility with other shotguns is not guaranteed.
Who Should Buy Pro Mag Shell Holder For Mossberg 500/590 Shotguns Holds 7 Rounds Black AA113?
This shell holder is ideal for owners of Mossberg 500 and 590 shotguns looking for a practical and affordable way to increase their ammunition capacity and speed up reloads. It’s perfect for those involved in home defense, tactical training, or even sport shooting where quick follow-up shots are beneficial. If you prioritize functionality and durability over premium materials, this is a solid choice.
Individuals who require sterile medical-grade equipment or highly specialized, ultra-lightweight gear for extreme backcountry expeditions should look elsewhere. This accessory is designed for a firearm, not for laboratory benches or alpine climbs. For anyone seeking a no-frills, effective addition to their Mossberg pump-action, this unit delivers.
Conclusion on Pro Mag Shell Holder For Mossberg 500/590 Shotguns Holds 7 Rounds Black AA113
The Pro Mag Shell Holder For Mossberg 500/590 Shotguns Holds 7 Rounds Black AA113 is, in my experienced opinion, an outstanding accessory for any Mossberg 500 or 590 owner. It expertly blends robust construction with user-friendly features, delivering on its promise of enhanced ammunition accessibility without compromising firearm integrity or aesthetics. The ability to customize shell retention is a significant advantage that sets it apart from many similarly priced competitors.
Considering its robust build, excellent functionality, and particularly its highly competitive price, the value proposition here is undeniable. It’s one of those rare accessories that punches well above its weight class. I would absolutely recommend this shell holder to anyone with a compatible Mossberg shotgun who is looking to improve their reload speed and overall preparedness. It’s a straightforward, effective upgrade that makes a tangible difference in the practical usability of the firearm.