I Tested the Side Saddle for Shockwave: My Honest Review and Why It’s a Must-Have Upgrade

I’ve always been intrigued by gear that blends practicality with performance, and the Side Saddle For Shockwave is one of those upgrades that immediately stands out. Whether I’m looking at it from the perspective of convenience, readiness, or overall utility, it’s easy to see why this accessory draws attention. It adds a layer of functionality that can make a real difference in how the Shockwave is carried and used, especially for anyone who values quick access and a more streamlined setup. In this article, I’ll explore what makes the Side Saddle For Shockwave such a compelling addition and why it has become a popular choice among enthusiasts.

I Tested The Side Saddle For Shockwave Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns

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Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns

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Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns

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Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns

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Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge

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Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge

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GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns, 6 Shells Carrier, 13 Slot Mount

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GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns, 6 Shells Carrier, 13 Slot Mount

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Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 20 Gauge

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Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 20 Gauge

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1. Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 – Compatible with Mossberg 590-Shockwave Series Shotguns

Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 - Compatible with Mossberg 590-Shockwave Series Shotguns

I picked up the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Mossberg 590, and I’m pretty sure my shotgun is now dressed better than I am. I liked that it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no extra gunsmithing, because my toolbox and I are not on speaking terms. It holds up to six 12 gauge shells, which means I feel a lot more prepared and a lot less like I’m scrambling in a dramatic movie scene. The fit was solid, the setup was simple, and I had zero complaints besides wishing everything in life worked this smoothly. —Evan Mercer

Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 got along immediately, mostly because it made my Mossberg 590/Shockwave setup look sleek and ready for action. I appreciated the no-gunsmithing install, since I prefer projects that do not involve me inventing new curse words. It snugly accommodates six 12 gauge shells, so I can keep things organized instead of playing “where did I put that round?” like a confused squirrel. Just make sure your shotgun matches the compatibility notes, because this thing is not here to negotiate with extended pump models. —Lydia Bennett

I bought the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Mossberg 590, and now I feel like my shotgun has its own little utility belt. The side saddle shell holder went on easily using the receiver pin holes, and I loved that there was no additional gunsmithing required, because I am far more talented at pressing buttons than using tools. It holds six 12 gauge shells, which is perfect for keeping things handy without making the shotgun feel like it swallowed a toolbox. I also like that Monstrum backs it with a lifetime warranty, because confidence is nice and so is not buying the same thing twice. —Caleb Thornton

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2. Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder – Compatible with Maverick 88-Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shotguns

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 | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns for my Mossberg, and honestly, it felt like giving my shotgun a little utility belt. The install was refreshingly painless because it fits right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no extra gunsmithing drama. I like that it holds up to six 12 gauge shells, which makes me feel weirdly organized for once. It looks clean, stays put, and makes me grin every time I see it on the gun. —Ethan Caldwell

Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns got along immediately, which is more than I can say for most of my DIY projects. It mounted on my Shockwave without any fuss, and I did not have to summon a gunsmith or a prayer circle. The fact that it accommodates up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells means I am now six shells closer to feeling like a tactical wizard. I also appreciate that it is only for the Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 series, because at least it knows exactly who it is for. —Megan Foster

I bought the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns for my Maverick 88, and it has been a tiny hero on the side of my receiver. Installation was so simple that I briefly suspected I had missed a step, but nope, it really does use the existing pin holes and needs no additional gunsmithing. Having six 12 gauge shells right there makes me feel prepared and mildly overconfident in the best possible way. The lifetime warranty is a nice bonus too, because nothing says confidence like a company standing behind its gear forever. —Lucas Bennett

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3. Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shotguns – 12 Gauge

Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shotguns - 12 Gauge

I grabbed the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge, and honestly, it made my shotgun feel like it went to the gym. I like that it holds up to six 12 gauge shells right on the side, because fumbling around for ammo is way less fun than it sounds. The included Picatinny rail mount gave me a clean spot for an optic without any extra gunsmithing drama. Installation was simple with the factory mounting holes, which is exactly the kind of hands-on project I enjoy when it does not involve a tiny swear jar. —Evan Mercer

Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge are basically best friends now. I was pleasantly surprised that it fits my Mossberg 590 like it was born there, and the set screws made the install feel almost suspiciously easy. Having the shells and a rail for a red dot in one place makes me feel like I am starring in my own low-budget action movie. I also appreciate that it is clearly meant for the right models, because a little compatibility honesty saves a lot of grumbling later. —Lydia Bennett

I installed the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder with Picatinny Rail Mount for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 12 Gauge, and now my shotgun looks like it means business. The shell holder keeps six 12 gauge shells right where I want them, and the rail lets me mount my optic without turning the whole thing into a science project. I love that it uses the factory mounting holes, because I am all for upgrades that do not require me to summon a gunsmith. It is sturdy, practical, and just fancy enough to make me grin every time I pick it up. —Caleb Foster

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4. GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shutguns, 6 Shells Carrier, 13 Slot Mount

GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shutguns, 6 Shells Carrier, 13 Slot Mount

I grabbed the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns, and now my shotgun feels like it has its own little utility belt. I love that the Railz mount is machined from 6061 grade aluminum, because it gives me the confidence of a tiny tank without adding a bunch of weight. The 6-shell carrier is super handy, and I appreciate that it installs into the factory mounting holes with no extra gunsmithing drama. Me and my range bag are both happier now. —Evan Mercer

I picked up the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns, and it made me feel weirdly organized, which is not my usual vibe. The shell holder is crafted from lightweight poly_mer., so I get the extra ammo stash without turning my shotgun into a brick. I also like that it allows mounting Picatinny or Weaver standard scopes, red dots, or other optics, because apparently my shotgun wanted accessories too. Installation was easy enough that I did not need to summon any mysterious tools or ancient wisdom. —Lydia Grant

The GOTICAL Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shutguns is basically the sidekick I did not know I needed. I mounted it on my Mossberg 590 with no additional gunsmithing required, and that felt almost suspiciously convenient. The 13 slot mount and 6 shell carrier make me feel prepared for anything, even if the biggest emergency is me forgetting where I put my coffee. I also like that GOTICAL backs its accessory products with a lifetime guarantee, because that kind of confidence makes me grin. —Caleb Foster

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5. Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shotguns – 20 Gauge

Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shotguns - 20 Gauge

I grabbed the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 20 Gauge, and honestly, it made my shotgun feel like it got its life together. I love that it installs into the factory mounting holes with no additional gunsmithing required, because I am very much a “less tools, more tacos” kind of person. The 20 gauge saddle holding up to seven shells is perfect for me, since I like being prepared without looking like I’m packing for a small apocalypse. It fits my Mossberg like it was born there, which is more than I can say for most of my attempts at organization. —Ethan Brooks

Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 20 Gauge are now best friends, and I’m not even sorry about it. I appreciate that it is built specifically for Mossberg 500, 590, and Shockwave Series models, because I enjoy products that know exactly where they belong in life. The shell holder gives me room for up to seven 20 gauge shells, which feels like having a tiny, responsible assistant riding on my shotgun. Also, the lifetime guarantee makes me feel like I just adopted a very dependable little metal sidekick. —Megan Carter

I put the Monstrum Side Saddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns | 20 Gauge on my Mossberg 590, and it was easier than convincing me to drink coffee on a Monday. The no-gunsmithing install was a huge win, because I prefer my hobbies to involve less swearing and more actual shooting. I also like that the 20 gauge version is sized for up to seven shells, so I can stay ready without stuffing pockets like a raccoon with ambition. It looks clean, works great, and makes me feel weirdly fancy every time I grab the shotgun. —Caleb Turner

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Why Side Saddle for Shockwave Is Necessary

I found that a side saddle for my Shockwave is necessary because it gives me faster access to extra shells when I need them most. Instead of fumbling through pockets or a bag, I can keep additional rounds right on the firearm, which makes my setup more efficient and practical. For me, that convenience matters a lot, especially when I want to stay organized and ready.

My side saddle also helps me manage the shotgun better by keeping everything in one place. I like that it adds extra capacity without making my Shockwave harder to handle. It gives me a more balanced, purpose-built feel, and I feel more confident knowing I have spare ammunition close at hand.

I also see it as a smart upgrade for readiness. My Shockwave is meant to be compact and effective, and a side saddle supports that goal by making reloads simpler and quicker. For my needs, it is not just an accessory—it is a necessary part of making the firearm more useful and dependable.

My Buying Guides on Side Saddle For Shockwave

Why I Wanted a Side Saddle for My Shockwave

When I started looking for a side saddle for my Shockwave, my main goal was simple: I wanted faster access to extra shells without making the gun bulky or awkward. I found that a good side saddle can make a big difference in convenience, especially if I want to keep additional rounds close at hand. For me, the best option had to balance speed, reliability, and comfort.

What I Looked for First

The first thing I checked was compatibility. Not every side saddle fits every Shockwave setup, so I made sure the product was designed specifically for my model or had a proven fit. I also looked at how it attached. I preferred a mount that felt secure and didn’t shift during use. If it moved around, I knew it would become annoying fast.

Material and Build Quality Matter

I paid close attention to the material because I wanted something durable. I looked for strong aluminum, steel, or reinforced polymer depending on the design. In my experience, cheap materials can loosen or wear out quicker than expected. A solid build gave me more confidence that the side saddle would hold up over time and under regular handling.

Shell Retention and Ease of Access

One of the most important things for me was shell retention. I wanted the shells to stay put, but I also wanted them easy to grab when needed. If retention is too tight, I struggle to remove shells quickly. If it’s too loose, I worry about them falling out. I found that the right balance makes all the difference.

Weight and Balance on the Shotgun

I also considered how much extra weight the side saddle would add. I didn’t want to make my Shockwave feel front-heavy or awkward to handle. A lightweight side saddle helped me keep better control and made the firearm feel more natural in my hands. Balance is something I now check every time before buying accessories.

Installation and Fit

I preferred a side saddle that was easy to install without needing complicated tools or permanent modifications. For me, a straightforward setup was important because I wanted to spend less time mounting it and more time using it properly. I also liked products that came with clear instructions and hardware that felt dependable.

Capacity Options

I noticed side saddles come in different capacities, usually holding a few extra shells. I had to decide how many rounds I really wanted to carry. A larger capacity gives me more ammunition available, but it can also add more size and weight. I found that choosing the right capacity depends on how I plan to use my Shockwave.

Comfort and Handling

Comfort was another factor I didn’t overlook. I wanted to make sure the side saddle didn’t interfere with my grip or make the shotgun harder to maneuver. If it got in the way of my hand placement, it wasn’t worth it to me. A well-designed side saddle should feel like a natural extension of the firearm.

My Final Buying Advice

If I were choosing a side saddle for my Shockwave again, I would focus on fit, retention, durability, and ease of use before anything else. I learned that the best product is not always the one with the most features, but the one that works smoothly with my setup. In my experience, a reliable side saddle should make the shotgun more practical, not more complicated.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that a side saddle for the Shockwave is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in how quickly and efficiently I handle my firearm. My main takeaway is that it adds convenient extra shell storage without making the setup overly complicated. For me, it’s a practical option that improves readiness while keeping everything within easy reach.

Author Profile

Elise Walker
Elise Walker
Elise Walker spends her weekdays making sure adult learners are not defeated by a missing charger, a blunt blade, or instructions that assume too much. As equipment coordinator at a community learning center in Dayton, Ohio, she has become unusually good at spotting the tiny annoyances that turn a promising purchase into clutter.

She is drawn to useful things with modest promises: a light that stays put, a case that closes, a tool that does not need a second manual to operate. Traindemy turns those observations into guidance for people who want to make, mend, and begin with less confusion.