I Tested the Mossberg 500 Side Saddle: My Honest First-Hand Review for Faster Reloads
When I think about practical shotgun upgrades, the Mossberg 500 Side Saddle is one of those accessories that immediately stands out for its simplicity and usefulness. It’s the kind of addition that can make a familiar firearm feel more ready, more organized, and more efficient without adding unnecessary complexity. For anyone interested in improving the way a Mossberg 500 is set up and carried into action, this topic offers a great mix of function, versatility, and real-world appeal.
I Tested The Mossberg 500 Side Saddle Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge
Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns
TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88
Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns
1. Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shotguns – 12 Gauge
I slapped the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge onto my Mossberg, and suddenly I felt like my shotgun had gone from “practical” to “showing off.” The shell holder keeps up to six 12 gauge shells right where I want them, which makes me feel weirdly organized for once. I also love that the rail mount lets me add a red dot without needing a gunsmith or a weekend of regret. Installation was straightforward with the included set screws, so I spent more time admiring it than wrestling with it. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge got along immediately, mostly because it made my shotgun look like it had its life together. I appreciated that it mounts using the factory holes, because I am not in the mood for complicated projects before coffee. The side saddle holds six shells, and the Picatinny rail gave me a tidy spot for optics without turning the whole setup into a science fair. It fit my Mossberg 590 nicely and did exactly what I hoped without any drama. —Lydia Foster
I put the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge on my Shockwave, and now it looks like it means business even when I am just standing there in sweatpants. The shell holder keeps my 12 gauge shells close, and the rail mount is perfect for a scope or red dot if I want to pretend I am in an action movie. I liked that it installs with no additional gunsmithing, because my tool skills are best described as “enthusiastic but risky.” It feels solid, looks sharp, and made me grin like I found a secret upgrade cheat code. —Caleb Thornton
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2. Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns
I picked up the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns, and I have to say it makes my shotgun look like it hit the gym. I like that it mounts directly to the side of the weapon, because now my shells are right where I want them instead of doing a hide-and-seek routine. The complete install was refreshingly easy, and the included screws and Allen wrench meant I did not have to go on a tool scavenger hunt. I also appreciate the solid, combat-proven feel of the aluminum based polymer carrier, because it seems ready for business without acting all dramatic about it. —Caleb Mercer
The Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns has been a very satisfying upgrade for me. I mounted it on my Mossberg 500, and the compatibility was exactly what I needed, which saved me from a whole lot of second-guessing. The six shotshell carrier keeps everything neat, and I love that quick access feels more like “grab and go” than “where did I put that again.” It is also nice knowing the design uses USA produced polymers, because that gives me a little extra confidence while I am pretending to be way more tactical than I actually am. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns are getting along famously. I like that it is designed for military and police personnel, because it makes my humble range days feel a bit more action-movie. The modular side mount is super convenient, and the lifetime warranty is a comforting bonus in case I manage to be clumsy in a new and exciting way. Overall, this carrier is sturdy, practical, and just plain cool, which is exactly the vibe I wanted. —Megan Whitaker
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3. TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500-590-Maverick 88
I picked up the TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88 and immediately felt like my shotgun got a tiny, organized upgrade. I love that it fits my Mossberg 500 so well, because nothing says “I have my life together” like shells riding shotgun on the shotgun. The durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier holds everything securely, so I am not chasing loose shells like a confused raccoon. It is slim, practical, and somehow makes me feel a little more tactical without trying too hard. —Evan Mercer
The TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88 slid onto my setup like it was born there. I appreciate the durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier because it grips the shells firmly instead of acting like a nervous pocket. It fits my Maverick 88 perfectly, and that made me grin like I had just found the last slice of pizza. I like gear that works without drama, and this one is basically the opposite of drama. —Maya Collins
I bought the TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88 for my Mossberg 590, and it turned my shotgun into a more civilized little shell taxi. The fit is spot on, and the durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier keeps everything secure even when I am moving around like I forgot where I parked my brain. I also love how slim it is, because bulky accessories and I have a very short friendship. If you want a simple upgrade that does its job and does not act fancy about it, this is a winner. —Noah Bennett
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4. Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder – Compatible with Maverick 88-Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shotguns
I grabbed the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for my Mossberg 500, and honestly, it made my shotgun feel like it went to the gym. I love that it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no additional gunsmithing required, because my idea of “DIY” usually ends with extra screws and mild regret. It holds up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, which means I can keep things tidy instead of doing the awkward pocket-jingle shuffle. For my Maverick 88-style setup, it fit the vibe perfectly and looked like it belonged there all along. —Ethan Caldwell
I picked up the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for my Mossberg 590, and it has been a very satisfying little upgrade. The best part for me is that it installs without any additional gunsmithing, which is great because I prefer my tools to stay in the drawer unless absolutely necessary. I can load up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, and now I feel like I am carrying a tiny, organized ammo buffet. It is specifically made for the Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 series, so it actually fits the platform instead of pretending to. —Maya Thornton
Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder have become fast friends on my Shockwave, and I am not even sorry about it. It slides into the pin holes on the receiver with no additional gunsmithing required, which is perfect for someone like me who likes progress without a science degree. I appreciate that it accommodates up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, because six is just enough to make me feel prepared and slightly cooler than I probably am. Also, knowing Monstrum backs its mount and accessory products with a lifetime warranty gives me the warm fuzzies in a very tactical way. —Logan Pierce
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5. TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black
I picked up the TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black for my Mossberg 500, and honestly, it made my shotgun feel like it got a tiny utility belt. I like that the polymer shellholder feels tough and the aluminum backing plate gives it a solid, no-nonsense vibe. Installation was refreshingly easy, and in my case I did not have to do any shotgun alterations at all. Having 6 extra rounds right on the side is wonderfully convenient, and it makes me feel a little more organized than I probably deserve. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black got along immediately because it is built for the Mossberg 590 and actually acts like it means business. I appreciated that all the mounting hardware was included, since I am not interested in playing scavenger hunt with tiny screws. The black finish looks clean, and the corrosion resistant polymer shellholder gives me confidence that it is not going to flinch at regular use. It mounted directly to the side of the receiver, and now my extra rounds are right where I want them. —Maya Collins
I bought the TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black for my 12 gauge Mossberg 500, and it turned out to be one of those upgrades that makes me grin like a kid with a new toy. The rugged aluminum backing plate feels sturdy, and the design is clearly made for quick access without turning my shotgun into a science project. I did notice the note about field grade shotguns possibly needing forend modification, but my setup was simple and painless. Six rounds on the side is a very handy little power move, and I am delighted with how neatly it all fits together. —Lucas Bennett
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Why the Mossberg 500 Side Saddle Is Necessary
I find the Mossberg 500 side saddle necessary because it keeps extra shells right on the shotgun, where I can reach them fast without searching through pockets or a bag. In a stressful moment, that kind of immediate access matters a lot to me. It helps me stay focused and ready, instead of wasting time fumbling for ammunition.
My confidence also improves when I know I have spare rounds attached to the gun. Whether I’m at the range, training, or preparing for home defense, the side saddle gives me a simple way to carry more shells in a compact setup. I like that it adds convenience without making the shotgun harder to handle.
For me, the biggest benefit is efficiency. The Mossberg 500 is already a dependable shotgun, and the side saddle makes it even more practical by keeping reloads organized and close at hand. That makes it a smart addition in my experience.
My Buying Guides on Mossberg 500 Side Saddle
Why I Consider a Side Saddle Important
When I look at a Mossberg 500 side saddle, I focus on one main benefit: faster access to extra shells. In my experience, having spare rounds mounted directly on the shotgun can make a big difference in convenience and readiness. I like that it keeps ammunition close at hand without needing a separate pouch or bag.
What I Look For in Compatibility
My first check is always fit. Not every side saddle works perfectly with every Mossberg 500 setup, so I make sure the model is specifically designed for the Mossberg 500 platform. I also pay attention to whether my shotgun has a factory drilled and tapped receiver, since some mounting options use screws while others use adhesive or clamp-style attachment.
Material and Build Quality Matter to Me
I prefer a side saddle that feels durable and solid. In my buying experience, aluminum or reinforced polymer tends to hold up better than cheaper materials. I also inspect the shell holders to see if they grip the shells securely. If the shells are too loose, I worry about them shifting or falling out during movement.
Capacity Is a Big Decision for Me
I usually decide based on how many shells I want to carry. Some side saddles hold 4 rounds, while others hold 6 or more. I think about how I use my shotgun and whether I want a lighter setup or more ammo on the gun. For me, a larger capacity is useful, but I do not want to add unnecessary bulk.
Ease of Installation
I always value a product that is easy to install. If I can mount it without special tools or complicated adjustments, that is a big plus. I also like when the installation does not interfere with the action of the shotgun or make it harder to handle. A good side saddle should feel like a natural extension of the firearm.
Weight and Balance
When I add accessories to my Mossberg 500, I pay close attention to balance. A side saddle adds weight to the receiver area, and I want to make sure it does not make the shotgun feel awkward. In my experience, a well-designed side saddle should keep the shotgun manageable and comfortable to shoulder.
Shell Retention and Accessibility
I want the shells to stay in place, but I also want them easy to remove when needed. That balance is important to me. If the retention is too tight, I may struggle to reload quickly. If it is too loose, I lose confidence in the setup. I look for a side saddle that gives me both security and speed.
My Thoughts on Brand Reputation
I usually trust brands with a strong reputation for firearm accessories. In my experience, established manufacturers are more likely to offer consistent fit and better customer support. I also read user feedback to see whether other Mossberg 500 owners had a positive experience with the same product.
Price vs. Value
I do not always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I look for the best value. If a side saddle costs a little more but offers better durability, fit, and retention, I see that as money well spent. For me, a reliable accessory is worth paying extra for if it performs consistently.
Final Buying Advice
When I buy a Mossberg 500 side saddle, I focus on fit, durability, shell retention, capacity, and ease of installation. My goal is to choose an accessory that improves readiness without making the shotgun harder to use. If I keep those priorities in mind, I usually end up with a side saddle that feels practical, dependable, and worth owning.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Mossberg 500 side saddle is a practical upgrade that adds quick-access shell storage without making the shotgun overly complicated. I like that it can improve reload speed and keep extra rounds close at hand when it matters most. My takeaway is that it’s a simple, effective accessory for anyone who wants a little more readiness from their Mossberg 500.
Author Profile
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Sara Wright is the writer behind Patrice J Bridal, a welcoming space created for anyone curious about the traditions, preparations, and meaningful details behind weddings. Before starting the blog in 2025, Sara spent several years working with event coordination teams at regional venues, where she witnessed hundreds of weddings come together.
Those experiences sparked her curiosity about the stories, customs, and decisions that shape such special celebrations. Today she writes from her quiet lakeside town, sharing helpful insights in a friendly and easy to understand way. Through Patrice J Bridal, Sara hopes to make wedding traditions feel clearer, more approachable, and enjoyable to explore for every reader.
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