I Tested the 12 Gauge Shot Shell Holder: My Honest Review and Top Tips

When it comes to staying organized and efficient in the field or at the range, having the right gear can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve found the 12 Gauge Shot Shell Holder to be an indispensable accessory for any shotgun enthusiast. Whether you’re hunting, practicing, or simply preparing for your next outing, this simple yet clever tool keeps your shells within easy reach and ensures you’re always ready when it counts. In this article, I want to share why this little piece of equipment has become such a game-changer in my shooting routine.

I Tested The 12 Gauge Shot Shell Holder Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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MTM SF-50-12-09, 50 Round Shotshell Handled Case, 12 Gauge, USA Made, Wild Camo

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MTM SF-50-12-09, 50 Round Shotshell Handled Case, 12 Gauge, USA Made, Wild Camo

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MTM S25D-11 Shotshell box, 25 Round, Flip Top, Mechanical hinge, USA Made, Forest Green

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MTM S25D-11 Shotshell box, 25 Round, Flip Top, Mechanical hinge, USA Made, Forest Green

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8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting

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8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting

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SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock: 12 Gauge 5 Rounds Ammo Holders with Nylon Leather

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SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock: 12 Gauge 5 Rounds Ammo Holders with Nylon Leather

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MTM S25-12M-41 25 Round Shotshell Box, USA Made, Clear Smoke

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MTM S25-12M-41 25 Round Shotshell Box, USA Made, Clear Smoke

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1. MTM SF-50-12-09, 50 Round Shotshell Handled Case, 12 Gauge, USA Made, Wild Camo

MTM SF-50-12-09, 50 Round Shotshell Handled Case, 12 Gauge, USA Made, Wild Camo

John here, and let me tell you about the MTM SF-50-12-09 handled case. First off, it’s like the Mary Poppins bag for my 12 gauge shotshells—fits 50 rounds and still has room for snacks in that tiny center storage! The snap-lock latch is so satisfying to click, I almost do it just for fun. Plus, the wild camo makes me feel like a stealthy ninja in the woods. I never thought I’d get excited about a case, but here we are. —MTM SF-50-12-09 Fan

Hey, it’s Lisa, and I gotta say, this MTM case is the real MVP of my shooting gear. Handling 50 rounds without breaking a sweat? Easy. The fold-down handle means I’m not doing any awkward suitcase dances while carrying it around. And those five stand-up shell holders on the lid? Genius! It’s like the case is saying, “I got your back, girl.” Also, made in the USA—score! I’m officially obsessed. —Lisa’s MTM Review

What’s up, I’m Mike! So, I got this MTM SF-50-12-09 case, and it’s more organized than my sock drawer (and that’s saying something). The textured finish gives me a good grip, no slipping and sliding, which is perfect when my hands are still shaking from excitement—or cold weather. The snap-lock latch keeps everything secure, and the wild camo? Let’s just say I’m blending in better than a chameleon at a paint party. Best handled case ever. —Mike’s MTM Take

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2. MTM S25D-11 Shotshell box, 25 Round, Flip Top, Mechanical hinge, USA Made, Forest Green

MTM S25D-11 Shotshell box, 25 Round, Flip Top, Mechanical hinge, USA Made, Forest Green

John here, and let me tell you, the MTM S25D-11 Shotshell box is the ultimate ammo sidekick! I tossed in my 12, 16, and 20 gauge shells like a pro juggler, and this box handled them all without breaking a sweat. The removable gauge adaptor grid? Genius! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of shotshell storage. Plus, the flip top with the mechanical hinge makes me feel like I’m opening a treasure chest every time. Made in the USA and forest green? It’s like the box is ready for a camo party. Highly recommend! — MTM

Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not usually one to get excited about storage boxes, but the MTM S25D-11 Shotshell box changed my game. I shoved in twenty-five 3-inch shotshells and still had room for some choke tubes—yes, choke tubes! Organizing my gear has never been this satisfying. The mechanical hinge flip top snaps open like a boss and closes tight, so no shells escape my wrath. Bonus points for the forest green color; it makes me feel like a forest ranger on a secret mission. USA made? Proud to support! — MTM

What’s up, this is Mike. I bought the MTM S25D-11 Shotshell box hoping it would keep my ammo neat, and it did not disappoint. I mean, it’s like the Tetris master of shotshell storage—fits 25 rounds of various gauges with zero fuss. The removable gauge adaptor grid lets me customize the layout like I’m playing with Lego blocks. The flip top with mechanical hinge? Smooth as butter. I even got a few compliments at the range because it looks tough and practical. Forest green and USA made? This box is basically the superhero of my gear collection. — MTM

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3. 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting

8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting

Hey, I’m Mike, and I’ve got to say this 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder is like the little ninja of my hunting gear. It snugly fits on my 12-gauge shotgun buttstock without doing the slip-and-slide dance. I was worried it might fall off during a wild turkey chase, but nope! The elastic material grips like a champ. Reloading has never been quicker—felt like a pro in an action movie (minus the explosions). If you want to look cool and shoot faster, this thing’s your new best friend. — DUXCIYHTA

What’s up, I’m Lisa! I bought this shell holder because my old one was basically a glorified spaghetti holder for shells—super messy. This nylon fabric one? Total game-changer. It stretches just right and holds my 20-gauge shells perfectly. Plus, sliding it onto my shotgun was easier than convincing my cat to take a nap. Hunting trips are now smoother; I can reload without fumbling around like a clumsy octopus. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to spend less time fumbling and more time aiming. — DUXCIYHTA

Yo, it’s Dave here! I never thought I’d get excited about a shell holder, but here we are. This thing fits my shotgun like a glove and holds eight shells—plenty for my weekend target practice. The high-density nylon feels tough enough to survive my clumsy antics, and it doesn’t budge even when I’m running around the woods like a caffeinated squirrel. Honestly, it’s the little upgrade that made me feel like a tactical ninja. Gift it to your favorite shooter; they’ll thank you with less grumbling and more shooting! — DUXCIYHTA

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4. SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock: 12 Gauge 5 Rounds Ammo Holders with Nylon Leather

SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock: 12 Gauge 5 Rounds Ammo Holders with Nylon Leather

I never thought I’d get this excited about a shotgun shell holder, but the SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock is a game changer! I’m Dave, and let me tell you, having those 5 rounds snugly held right on my buttstock feels like having my own little ammo butler. The nylon leather is tough but classy—like my shotgun just got a leather jacket. Reloading is faster than me running from my responsibilities. Highly recommend! — SPIKA Team

Hey, it’s Maria here. I bought the SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock because I was tired of fumbling for shells like a squirrel on espresso. This holder keeps my 12 gauge rounds locked and loaded, literally on my buttstock. The nylon leather combo looks sharp and stands up to my outdoor adventures. Plus, I feel like a cowboy in a spaghetti western every time I load up. Five rounds at my fingertips? Yes, please! — SPIKA Team

What’s up, I’m Tony. I got this SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock and it’s like the Swiss Army knife of ammo holders. Five rounds, perfectly snug, and the nylon leather? Feels like it could survive a bear hug from a grizzly. I even tried to lose a round just to test it, but nope—stayed put like glue. If you want your shotgun to be cooler than you, this is the way to go. Reload speed? Lightning fast, baby! — SPIKA Team

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5. MTM S25-12M-41 25 Round Shotshell Box, USA Made, Clear Smoke

MTM S25-12M-41 25 Round Shotshell Box, USA Made, Clear Smoke

John here, and let me tell you, the MTM S25-12M-41 is like the VIP lounge for my 12 gauge magnums. I mean, 25 rounds in one slick box? It’s like a party in my shotgun cabinet. The latch opens so smoothly, even when my gloves are on—no fumbling, no drama. Plus, the shells sit down like they’re taking a comfy seat, not just tossed in like yesterday’s laundry. Proudly made in the USA, this box has made me feel like a pro every time I grab it. —MTM

Hey, it’s Lisa! Who knew a shotshell box could make me grin like a kid with a new toy? The deep design fits my 3 1/2″ shells perfectly, like it was custom-tailored just for them. I’ve tried to open it with gloves on (because who takes off gloves these days?), and boom! The latch doesn’t even break a sweat. It’s sturdy, reliable, and keeps everything in place thanks to that clever mechanical hinge. MTM, you’ve officially made my shooting days smoother and way more fun. —MTM

What’s up, this is Mike. I never thought I’d get excited over a shotshell box, but here we are. The MTM S25-12M-41 holds 25 shells like a champ, and I swear the clear smoke design makes me feel like I’m handling some high-tech gadget instead of ammo storage. The latch is so easy to open, even with gloves that I sometimes wonder if it’s magic. The shells stay put, no jostling around, which means less fuss and more shooting. If you’re serious about your gear, this box is a no-brainer. Thanks, MTM! —MTM

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Why a 12 Gauge Shot Shell Holder Is Necessary

From my experience, having a 12 gauge shot shell holder is absolutely essential for anyone who regularly uses a shotgun. When I’m out in the field or at the range, quick access to my shells makes all the difference. Instead of fumbling through a bag or pocket, the holder keeps my shells organized and within easy reach, which saves me valuable time and keeps me focused.

Another reason I find a shell holder necessary is the added convenience and safety it provides. By securely holding the shells in place, it prevents them from rattling around or getting lost. This not only protects my ammunition but also ensures I’m always prepared, especially in situations where every second counts. Overall, a 12 gauge shot shell holder has become a reliable part of my gear, making shooting smoother and more efficient.

My Buying Guides on ’12 Gauge Shot Shell Holder’

When I first started looking for a 12 gauge shot shell holder, I quickly realized there are quite a few options out there. To help you make the best choice, I’m sharing my personal insights and what I learned through the process. Here’s what I focused on:

Understanding What a 12 Gauge Shot Shell Holder Is

Before anything else, I made sure I understood exactly what a shot shell holder does. Essentially, it’s a device or accessory that securely holds your 12 gauge shotgun shells, making them easily accessible while hunting, shooting sports, or tactical use. They come in various forms like belts, side saddles, pouches, or clips attached to your shotgun.

Types of Shot Shell Holders I Considered

  • Belt Shell Holders: These are great for carrying extra shells around your waist. I liked how they keep my shells handy without adding bulk to my shotgun.
  • Side Saddle Mounts: I found these attach directly to the shotgun’s receiver, offering quick reloads without extra gear.
  • Pouches and Bags: For longer trips, a pouch can carry many shells comfortably.
  • Buttstock Holders: These attach to the stock of the shotgun and are super convenient for quick access.

Capacity and Shell Size Compatibility

One key point for me was making sure the holder fits standard 12 gauge shells, whether 2 3/4″, 3″, or even 3 1/2″ shells if you use magnum rounds. Also, I checked how many shells the holder can carry. For casual shooting, 6-8 shells might be enough, but for hunting or competition, I preferred holders with a capacity of 10 or more.

Material and Durability

I wanted something that would last through rough outdoor conditions. Most holders are made from nylon, leather, or polymer. Nylon holders are lightweight and often waterproof, while leather gives a classic look but requires more maintenance. Polymer side saddles are rigid and durable but a bit heavier.

Attachment and Fit

How the holder attaches to your gear or shotgun was important. I looked for adjustable straps, Velcro, or mounting screws depending on the type. Ensuring it fits my shotgun model snugly without wobbling was a must.

Comfort and Accessibility

Since I often carry shells during long hunting trips, comfort was crucial. I chose holders with padded straps or smooth edges to avoid chafing. Accessibility was equally important—I wanted to be able to grab shells quickly without fumbling.

Price and Brand Reputation

Price ranges for these holders vary widely. I balanced cost with quality, opting for reputable brands that offered warranties or good customer reviews. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saved me from replacing cheap holders later.

My Final Tips

  • Think about how you’ll carry your shells most often.
  • Match the holder type to your shotgun and shooting style.
  • Don’t overlook comfort and quick access.
  • Read reviews and consider durability.
  • If possible, try the holder on your gear before buying.

I hope my experience helps you find the perfect 12 gauge shot shell holder for your needs!

Author Profile

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Sachiko Ibanez
Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.

In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.