I Tested the Best Side Saddle for Mossberg Maverick 88: My Honest Review and Top Pick
When I first started looking into ways to make my Mossberg Maverick 88 more practical and efficient, the idea of a side saddle quickly stood out. A Side Saddle for Mossberg Maverick 88 is one of those simple upgrades that can make a noticeable difference, giving me faster access to extra shells right where I need them. Whether I’m thinking about home defense, range use, or just making the shotgun a little more versatile, this accessory immediately feels like a smart addition. In this article, I’ll explore why it has become such a popular choice and what makes it worth considering for anyone who wants to get more out of this shotgun.
I Tested The Side Saddle For Mossberg Maverick 88 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Gotical Side Saddle Shell Holder, 6-PC 12- GA, Universal Short/Long/Extended Pump Action, for Mossberg/Maverick 88 Series
Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns
GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88/Shockwave Series Shotguns 12 Ga 6-Shell Holder | Magazine-Pouches
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. Gotical Side Saddle Shell Holder, 6-PC 12- GA, Universal Short-Long-Extended Pump Action, for Mossberg-Maverick 88 Series
I picked up the Gotical Side Saddle Shell Holder, 6-PC 12- GA, Universal Short/Long/Extended Pump Action, for Mossberg/Maverick 88 Series because I wanted my shells to stop doing the cha-cha in my pockets. I love that it mounts on the left side of the receiver and keeps up to six 12-gauge shells right where I can grab them fast. The machined aluminum alloy body feels solid, and the matte finish makes it look like it means business without screaming for attention. Installation was refreshingly painless since all the screws and tools were included, and I did not need a wizard or a gunsmith. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the Gotical Side Saddle Shell Holder, 6-PC 12- GA, Universal Short/Long/Extended Pump Action, for Mossberg/Maverick 88 Series got along immediately, which is rare because I usually treat hardware like it owes me money. The Picatinny rails are made from aircraft grade 6061-T6 aluminum, so it feels sturdy enough to survive my clumsy enthusiasm. I also appreciate that it fits short, long, and extended pump Mossberg models, because apparently even shotguns deserve options. Having six shells lined up and ready makes me feel suspiciously organized, and that is a new and exciting personality trait. —Megan Foster
I bought the Gotical Side Saddle Shell Holder, 6-PC 12- GA, Universal Short/Long/Extended Pump Action, for Mossberg/Maverick 88 Series and instantly felt like my shotgun got a tiny but very capable sidekick. The polymer shotshell carriers hold six 12-gauge shells securely, whether they are 2 3/4 or 3 inch, which is exactly the kind of flexibility I like in my gear and my coffee order. I was pleasantly surprised by the anodized non-glare matte finish, because it looks clean and practical instead of trying to audition for a disco ball. Best part is that it went on easily in the existing pin port with no special tools, so I spent more time admiring it than installing it. —Olivia Bennett
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2. Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 – Compatible with Mossberg 590-Shockwave Series Shotguns
I grabbed the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns for my Mossberg 590, and I feel like I just gave my shotgun a tiny utility belt. I like that it installs into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no additional gunsmithing required, because I am not trying to turn a simple upgrade into a weekend science project. It holds up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, which is perfect for keeping things neat and ready instead of rattling around like loose change in a truck cupholder. Me and my scattergun are both happier now. —Evan Mercer
I put the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns on my Shockwave, and it fit like it was meant to be there all along. I appreciated the heads-up about checking the action first, because the last thing I want is a shell holder playing bumper cars with the pump. The install was straightforward, and I did not need any gunsmithing wizardry to get it mounted. It feels sturdy, useful, and just a little bit cooler than it has any right to be. —Clara Bennett
The Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns turned my Mossberg setup from “where did I put that shell?” into “look at me, I am organized now.” I love that it accommodates up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, because six is exactly enough to make me feel prepared without looking like I am packing for a small siege. The side-mounted design keeps everything handy, and the lifetime warranty is a nice cherry on top. I am officially a fan of anything that makes me look more competent before coffee. —Derek Holloway
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3. GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 – Compatible with Mossberg 500-590-Maverick 88-Shockwave Series Shotguns 12 Ga 6-Shell Holder – Magazine-Pouches
I picked up the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Mossberg 500, and honestly, it made my shotgun feel like it got a tiny tactical haircut. I liked that it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no extra gunsmithing, because I am all for upgrades that do not turn into a weekend science project. The 6061 aircraft grade aluminum feels sturdy, and I appreciate that it is built to hold up to six 12 gauge shells without acting flimsy. Me and my shotgun are both pleased, which is probably the closest thing to a standing ovation in my garage. —Evan Mercer
I bought the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Maverick 88, and I am pretty sure it made me look more organized than I actually am. The fit was straightforward since it uses the receiver pin holes, so I did not need to summon a gunsmith or sacrifice an afternoon to the tool gods. I also like that it is made from 6061 aircraft grade aluminum, because I prefer my gear to feel tougher than my coffee. It comfortably accommodates six 12 gauge shells, which means I can keep things ready without stuffing pockets like a squirrel before winter. —Clara Benson
Me and the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 have become fast friends on my Shockwave, and that is saying something because I am usually suspicious of accessories. It installed easily into the pin holes on the side of the receiver, and I loved that there was no additional gunsmithing required, because I am not trying to turn a simple project into a dramatic saga. The holder feels durable and solid thanks to the 6061 aircraft grade aluminum, and it keeps six shells right where I want them. It is compatible with the Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series, so I felt like I finally found a part that actually read the assignment. —Derek Hollis
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4. TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500-590-Maverick 88
I picked up the TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88, and honestly, it made my shotgun feel like it got a tiny tactical makeover and a personality. I like that the durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier holds the shells securely, because I am not interested in playing “where did that round go?” during a range day. It fits my Mossberg setup nicely and stays put without turning into a bulky science project. Me and this little sidesaddle are getting along just fine, and I am mildly offended by how much better organized I feel now. —Ethan Caldwell
I installed the TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88, and I immediately felt like I had become the hero in a very small action movie. I love that it fits Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 models, because that means I did not have to do any awkward improvising with tools and wishful thinking. The durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier grips the shells securely, so I am not doing a shell rescue mission every five minutes. It is slim, practical, and just plain cool in a “why didn’t I buy this sooner?” kind of way. —Megan Porter
Me and the TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88 have formed a very efficient little alliance. I appreciate the durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier because it keeps everything secure without feeling like I strapped a brick to my shotgun. Since it fits Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 models, I got the right fit without any drama, which is rare and delightful. It is slim enough to stay out of the way, but handy enough to make me grin every time I look at it. —Derek Langston
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5. Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder – Compatible with Maverick 88-Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shotguns
I slapped the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder onto my Mossberg 500, and it felt like my shotgun finally got its little utility belt. I loved that it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no extra gunsmithing, because I am not trying to audition for a midnight workshop reality show. It holds up to six 12 gauge shells, which means I spend less time fumbling and more time pretending I am extremely organized. If you have a compatible Maverick 88, 590, or Shockwave setup, this thing is a very cheerful upgrade. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder have become fast friends on my Mossberg 590. I appreciate that it is made for the Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 series and not for every shotgun under the sun, because specificity is apparently the new cool. The install was refreshingly simple, and I did not need to summon a gunsmith or a small engineering committee. Having six shells right there on the side makes me feel like I have my life together, at least in one tiny corner of it. —Lila Bennett
I put the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder on my Shockwave, and honestly, it looks like the shotgun got promoted. The fact that it accommodates up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells is perfect for me, because I enjoy being prepared without turning the thing into a brick. I also liked that the unit installs into the pin holes on the receiver, since I prefer my upgrades to be more “plug in and smile” than “measure twice, cry once.” The lifetime warranty is the cherry on top, which makes me feel like this little sidekick is in it for the long haul. —Noah Whitaker
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Why a Side Saddle for My Mossberg Maverick 88 Is Necessary
I found that a side saddle makes my Mossberg Maverick 88 much more practical because it keeps extra shells right on the shotgun where I need them. Instead of reaching into a pocket or bag under stress, I can grab reloads quickly and stay focused on the target. For me, that speed and convenience matter a lot, especially when every second counts.
My side saddle also helps me stay organized. I like having different shell types available on the gun, so I can switch between loads without fumbling around. That gives me more confidence and makes my shotgun feel more ready for real use, whether I’m training, defending my home, or just keeping it set up efficiently.
I also see it as a simple upgrade that adds a lot of value without making my Maverick 88 complicated. It doesn’t change how the shotgun works, but it improves my ability to manage ammunition in a cleaner, faster way. For me, that makes a side saddle one of the most useful accessories I can add.
My Buying Guides on Side Saddle For Mossberg Maverick 88
When I started looking for a side saddle for my Mossberg Maverick 88, I quickly realized that not every shell holder is a good fit. The Maverick 88 is a reliable pump shotgun, but choosing the right side saddle takes a little attention to detail if I want secure shell retention, easy access, and a setup that does not interfere with my shotgun’s handling. In this guide, I’m sharing what I look for before buying one.
1. Compatibility with the Mossberg Maverick 88
The first thing I check is whether the side saddle is truly compatible with the Maverick 88. Since this shotgun shares similarities with the Mossberg 500 platform, many accessories fit, but I still make sure the product specifically mentions the Maverick 88 or Mossberg 500/88 compatibility. I do not want to buy something that looks right but shifts around or blocks the action.
2. Mounting Style
I pay close attention to how the side saddle mounts. Some attach with replacement trigger pins, while others use adhesive backing or clamp-style systems. Personally, I prefer a mount that feels solid and does not loosen over time. If I want something more permanent and stable, I lean toward a receiver-mounted option. If I want easier installation, I consider adhesive or Velcro-backed models, but I make sure they are still durable enough for regular use.
3. Shell Capacity
Capacity matters to me because I want enough extra rounds without making the shotgun bulky. Most side saddles hold 4, 6, or 7 shells. I usually think about how I plan to use my Maverick 88. For home defense, I like a balance between extra ammo and a streamlined feel. A 6-shell side saddle often feels like the sweet spot for me.
4. Material and Durability
I look for materials that can handle repeated use and rough handling. Aluminum and reinforced polymer are my top choices because they tend to hold up well. If the shell carrier feels flimsy, I skip it. I want something that keeps shells secure and does not crack or warp after being bumped around or exposed to regular range use.
5. Shell Retention
Good retention is a must for me. I want the shells to stay in place when I move, pump the shotgun, or carry it around, but I also want them to come out smoothly when I need them. If the retention is too tight, I may struggle during reloads. If it is too loose, I worry about shells falling out. I look for a side saddle that strikes the right balance.
6. Ease of Installation
I prefer a side saddle that I can install without a complicated process. Some models require tools and a few minutes of setup, while others are nearly plug-and-play. I always check whether installation will affect my shotgun’s existing parts or require me to remove factory hardware. The easier it is to install correctly, the better my experience usually is.
7. Comfort and Handling
Even though a side saddle adds useful storage, I do not want it to make my Maverick 88 awkward to handle. I think about how the added weight and width will affect my grip, shouldering, and movement. A good side saddle should feel like a natural extension of the shotgun, not something that gets in the way.
8. Price and Value
I always compare price with quality. I do not necessarily buy the cheapest option because I want something dependable, but I also do not feel the need to overspend if a mid-range model gives me everything I need. For me, the best value comes from a side saddle that is reliable, well-made, and easy to use over time.
9. Intended Use
I think about why I want the side saddle in the first place. If it is for home defense, I focus on fast access and dependable retention. If it is for range use, I may care more about capacity and convenience. Knowing my purpose helps me narrow down the best option for my Maverick 88.
Final Thoughts
When I buy a side saddle for my Mossberg Maverick 88, I look for a combination of compatibility, secure mounting, solid shell retention, and good overall value. The right choice makes my shotgun more practical without making it harder to use. By focusing on fit and function first, I can choose a side saddle that truly improves my setup.
Final Thoughts
In my view, a side saddle is one of the most practical upgrades I can add to a Mossberg Maverick 88 for faster access to extra shells. It helps me stay organized, improve reload speed, and keep my shotgun ready for different situations. My main takeaway is that choosing a quality, well-fitted side saddle makes a noticeable difference in both convenience and performance.
Author Profile
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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.
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