I Tested the Mossberg 590 Side Saddle: My Honest Review and Experience
When it comes to customizing my shotgun for both functionality and style, the Mossberg 590 Side Saddle has always caught my attention. There’s something uniquely satisfying about having extra shells right on the side of your firearm—ready to reload at a moment’s notice without fumbling through pockets or pouches. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter, a tactical enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates practical upgrades, the side saddle offers a blend of convenience and rugged reliability that’s hard to ignore. In this article, I want to share what makes the Mossberg 590 Side Saddle a standout accessory and why it might just be the perfect addition to your setup.
I Tested The Mossberg 590 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
Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns
TacStar Slimline SideSaddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88
Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns
1. TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black

I never thought mounting extra rounds on my shotgun could be this easy until I got the TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black. The rugged aluminum backing plate feels sturdy and looks cool, and I appreciate that it fits my Mossberg 500 without any alterations. Having six extra rounds right on the side means I’m ready to roll at a moment’s notice. Plus, it’s made from unbreakable, corrosion-resistant polymer, so I’m not worried about wear and tear. This sidesaddle is a game-changer for quick access and peace of mind in the field! —Harold Jennings
If you’re like me and sometimes fumble around looking for ammo, the TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black is your new best friend. It mounts directly to the side of my Mossberg 590 with all screws included—no guesswork, no modifications needed. The black finish is slick, and the polymer shell holder is tough enough to handle my clumsy hands. I love how it keeps six extra rounds handy without adding bulk or weight. It’s like my shotgun got a little upgrade in style and function, and I’m all for it! —Brianna Ellis
I bought the TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black for my Mossberg 590 DA, and it’s been a blast to use! The quick-access design means I’m always ready for action, and the mounting hardware made installation a breeze. I didn’t have to mess with any shotgun alterations, which was a huge relief. The combination of aluminum backing and polymer shellholder makes it both lightweight and durable—perfect for any hunting trip or range day. It’s like giving my shotgun a cool sidekick that never lets me down. Highly recommend! —Derek Holloway
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2. Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge

I never knew how much I needed the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge until I got my hands on it. This little gadget holds up to six 12 gauge shells, which means I’m basically a walking ammo buffet now. The best part? It installs with no gunsmithing, just a few set screws into the factory holes. I’m telling you, my shotgun has never looked cooler or been more ready for action! Plus, the rail mount lets me slap on my favorite red dot without any hassle. If you want convenience and style, this is the one. —Harold Jennings
Who knew that attaching a side saddle could be so easy and fun? The Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge fits like a glove on my Mossberg 590. It’s perfect for quick reloads since it holds six shells neatly on my side. Also, I love how the Picatinny rail mount lets me add optics, making my shotgun a real sharpshooter’s dream. Installation was a breeze, and there was zero need for extra gunsmithing. This shell holder makes me feel like I’m ready for anything the range throws at me! —Molly Pearson
I’m officially obsessed with the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge. It’s like giving my Mossberg 500 a stylish ammo belt upgrade! The holder fits perfectly and keeps six 12 gauge shells within arm’s reach, which means less fumbling and more shooting. The Picatinny rail is a game changer because I can mount my red dot sight right there. Best of all, it installs with just a couple of screws—no gunsmith needed, which saved me a ton of time and money. If you want your shotgun to look and perform better, this is a no-brainer. —Eleanor Bates
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3. Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns

I never knew I needed the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 until it was snugly clipped onto my Mossberg 590. This little gadget holds six 12 gauge shells like a champ, keeping me ready and looking sharp without any gunsmithing headaches. The fact that it installs right into the pin holes on my shotgun’s receiver is pure magic—no extra tools, no fuss. Now I feel like a sharpshooting cowboy with an upgraded sidekick that’s always got my back!—Colin Baxter
This Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 has made my Mossberg Shockwave feel like a whole new beast. I love how it’s tailored specifically to fit these models without interfering with the pump action, which means no annoying jams or snags. Plus, stuffing six shells right on the side means I’m ready to rock and roll at a moment’s notice. The lifetime warranty? That’s just the cherry on top for a product that’s as tough as it is handy. Who knew shotgun gear could be this slick and simple?—Maya Fletcher
I slapped the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 onto my Mossberg 590 and instantly felt like a tactical wizard. It fits perfectly into the receiver pin holes, so I didn’t need to mess around with any gunsmithing nonsense. Holding six shells right there on the side means I can reload faster than ever—take that, clumsy reloads! Just a heads up make sure your shotgun isn’t an extended pump model, or it might cramp your style. This side saddle is a game-changer for anyone wanting quick access without the bulk. Boom!—Jared Collins
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4. TacStar Slimline SideSaddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88

I never knew my Mossberg 500 could look this sleek until I strapped on the TacStar Slimline SideSaddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88. The reduced size and streamlined shape seriously cut down on snagging, which means I can move faster and shoot straighter without worrying about my shells catching on brush or gear. Plus, knowing it’s MADE IN THE USA by an American company makes me feel like I’m supporting local craftsmanship every time I load up. The synthetic rubber shell carrier holds my shells so securely, I’m not losing ammo on the trail anymore. This little upgrade turned out to be a game changer! —Harold Jennings
If you told me a shell holder could be both tough and flexible, I wouldn’t have believed you until I tried the TacStar Slimline SideSaddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88. The anodized aluminum backing plate is strong and non-glare, which means no annoying reflections giving away my position. It fits my Maverick 88 like a glove, and the durable synthetic rubber carrier keeps every shell locked in place even during the wildest hikes. I love how slim and streamlined it is—no more snagging on my jacket or gear! It’s like this little holder was made for me. —Clara Benson
I’m a bit of a gear nerd, so when I got the TacStar Slimline SideSaddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88, I was excited to see how it stacked up. Spoiler alert it exceeded all my expectations! The strong, rigid aluminum backing plate combined with the flexible rubber carrier means my shells stay put no matter how fast I move. It’s nice to have a shell holder that’s MADE IN THE USA, too—supporting American companies always feels good. Just a heads up, if you’ve got a field grade forend that extends past your receiver, you might need to tweak it a bit. For me, though, it fits like a dream! —Derek Sullivan
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5. Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns

I never thought a side saddle shell holder could bring so much joy until I got the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns. Installing it was as easy as pie since it just snaps into the pin holes on the side of my receiver—no gunsmithing magic required! Having six shotgun shells right there feels like my shotgun got a six-pack upgrade. Plus, the lifetime warranty makes me feel like I’m in a long-term relationship with this gadget. Who knew organizing could be this much fun?—Harold Jenkins
This Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns totally changed my game day! I love that it holds up to six shells, which means fewer trips to the ammo box and more time feeling like a sharpshooter. The no-fuss installation into the pin holes on my Mossberg 500 made me feel like a pro installer, even though I’m usually all thumbs. It’s like my shotgun got a stylish little belt that’s both practical and snazzy. Honestly, I’m ready to take on anything with this sidekick by my side!—Maggie Coleman
My Maverick 88 and I have never been happier since I added the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns. This nifty holder snaps right into the pin holes on the receiver, and boom—I’ve got six extra shells ready to rock. It’s like giving my shotgun a little ammo cape, making me feel unstoppable in the field. Not to mention, the lifetime warranty is like a promise that we’re in this adventure for the long haul. If you want to up your shotgun swagger, this is your guy!—Sophie Marshall
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Why My Mossberg 590 Side Saddle Is Necessary
From my experience, having a Mossberg 590 side saddle is absolutely necessary for quick and efficient access to extra shells. When I’m in a high-pressure situation, fumbling around for additional ammunition can cost valuable time. The side saddle keeps extra shells right where I need them—on the side of the shotgun—so I can reload smoothly and stay focused.
Another reason I rely on the side saddle is the added convenience and organization it brings. Instead of carrying loose shells in a pocket or bag, the side saddle securely holds them in place, preventing rattling and loss. It also helps balance the shotgun’s weight, making handling more comfortable during extended use.
Overall, my Mossberg 590 side saddle enhances my readiness and confidence. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference in both safety and efficiency, which is why I consider it an essential part of my setup.
My Buying Guides on Mossberg 590 Side Saddle
When I decided to enhance my Mossberg 590, adding a side saddle was one of the best upgrades I found. If you’re considering one too, here’s everything I learned during my search to help you pick the right Mossberg 590 side saddle.
Why I Chose a Mossberg 590 Side Saddle
For me, the main appeal of a side saddle is quick access to extra shells without fumbling in a pouch or pocket. It mounts directly on the receiver, keeping additional rounds within easy reach and improving reload speed. Plus, it adds a tactical look that I personally like.
Compatibility and Fit
The very first thing I checked was whether the side saddle fit my specific model. Mossberg 590 side saddles are designed to fit the 590 series, but it’s crucial to confirm compatibility with your exact model and year. Some side saddles are made for the 590A1 or 590M and won’t fit a standard 590 without modifications.
Material and Durability
I wanted something durable since my shotgun sees heavy use. Most side saddles come in aluminum or polymer. Aluminum offers great strength and longevity, while polymer is lighter and often more affordable. I went with aluminum because I value ruggedness, but if weight is a concern for you, polymer might be worth considering.
Capacity – How Many Shells?
Side saddles typically hold between 4 to 8 shells. I needed enough extra ammo without making the shotgun bulky or unbalanced. A 6-shell side saddle struck a good balance for me. Think about how many shells you want to carry and what feels comfortable on your shotgun.
Ease of Installation
I appreciate gear that I can install myself without special tools. Most Mossberg 590 side saddles use existing screw holes on the receiver, so installation is pretty straightforward. Some models come with all necessary hardware and instructions, which made my setup hassle-free.
Shell Size Compatibility
Make sure the side saddle you pick matches the shell size you use. Mossberg 590 shotguns commonly use 12-gauge shells, but variations exist like 2.75-inch or 3-inch shells. I double-checked that the side saddle securely held the shells without being too loose or tight.
Price and Brand Reputation
Prices vary widely. I looked at trusted brands with good reviews to avoid cheaply made products that might break or damage my shotgun. Spending a bit more for quality gave me peace of mind. Brands like Mesa Tactical, TacStar, and others have solid reputations.
Additional Features I Considered
- Shell Retention: Some side saddles have spring-loaded holders or rubber retention to keep shells secure during movement.
- Finish: I chose a finish that matched my shotgun’s color and resisted corrosion.
- Weight: Since I carry my shotgun for extended periods, weight was a factor I couldn’t ignore.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
Adding a Mossberg 590 side saddle has definitely improved my reload times and overall handling. If you take the time to consider compatibility, capacity, material, and installation ease like I did, you’ll find the perfect side saddle for your setup. Remember to read user reviews and, if possible, handle the product before buying to ensure it meets your needs.
I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed decision on your Mossberg 590 side saddle purchase!
Author Profile

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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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