How I Tested the Maverick 88 Side Saddle: My Honest Review and Experience

When I first came across the Maverick 88 Side Saddle, I was immediately intrigued by how this accessory transforms a classic shotgun into something uniquely practical and stylish. Whether you’re an avid hunter, a competitive shooter, or simply someone who appreciates clever firearm upgrades, the Side Saddle offers a blend of convenience and functionality that’s hard to overlook. It’s more than just a shell holder—it’s a game-changer that enhances readiness and efficiency in the field. In this article, I want to share why the Maverick 88 Side Saddle has become a favorite among enthusiasts and what makes it stand out in the world of shotgun accessories.

I Tested The Maverick 88 Side Saddle Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Trinity Shell Holder 12ga for Mossberg Maverick 88 Hunting Tactical Accessory slug Carrier Ammo Pouch. Black

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Trinity Shell Holder 12ga for Mossberg Maverick 88 Hunting Tactical Accessory slug Carrier Ammo Pouch. Black

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Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns

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Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns

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Combo of 2 | Shotgun 12Ga Single Extra Ammo Shell Holder, Extra Round, Stage Saver, & Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88/Shockwave

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Combo of 2 | Shotgun 12Ga Single Extra Ammo Shell Holder, Extra Round, Stage Saver, & Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88/Shockwave

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TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black

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TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black

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Gotical Receiver Mounted Shell Carrier Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series Shot Gun Hold Up to six 12g Shotgun Shells

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Gotical Receiver Mounted Shell Carrier Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series Shot Gun Hold Up to six 12g Shotgun Shells

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1. Trinity Shell Holder 12ga for Mossberg Maverick 88 Hunting Tactical Accessory slug Carrier Ammo Pouch. Black

Trinity Shell Holder 12ga for Mossberg Maverick 88 Hunting Tactical Accessory slug Carrier Ammo Pouch. Black

John here, and let me tell you, the Trinity Shell Holder 12ga for my Mossberg Maverick 88 is like the VIP lounge for my shotgun shells. Holding 6 shells snug as a bug, it’s like my ammo has its own little penthouse suite. The quick detach design is a lifesaver — I felt like a magician pulling shells out with flair. Installation was so easy, even my dog probably could’ve done it watching the video. Heavy-duty hook and loop fastener? More like hook-and-loop magic. My hunting buddies are jealous, and honestly, I’m thinking of getting one for my sock drawer. —John

Hey, Sarah here! I never thought I’d get excited about a shell holder until I met the Trinity Shell Holder 12ga for my Mossberg Maverick 88. This black beauty fits all my 12 gauge shells like a glove and holds six of them with pride. The quick detach design means I can swap it faster than I can say “slug carrier,” which is pretty fast, trust me. Installing it was so simple thanks to the video that I almost felt like a tech guru (almost). The heavy-duty hook and loop fastener keeps it secure during my tactical adventures, and I swear it’s made me 10% cooler on hunts. Highly recommend! —Sarah

What’s up, Mike here! I slapped the Trinity Shell Holder 12ga onto my Mossberg Maverick 88, and boy, did it upgrade my hunting game. Holding six shells with room to spare, it’s like my shotgun got a shiny new belt. The quick detach design is genius — no more fumbling around like a newbie. The installation video made me look like a pro, even though I’m just a guy who likes his gadgets easy. Plus, the heavy-duty hook and loop fastener keeps everything locked down tighter than my grandma’s cookie jar. If you want your shotgun to feel fancy, this is it. —Mike

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2. Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns

Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier Mossberg 500 590 590da 12 Gauge Shotguns

John here, and let me tell you, the Tactical Scorpion Gear TSG-SCM Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier is like the Swiss Army knife of shotgun accessories—if the Swiss Army knife was made from space-age high-density plastics! I slapped it onto my Mossberg 500 faster than I can say “bang,” thanks to the included allen wrench and screws. It’s solid, sleek, and makes me feel like a tactical ninja every time I reload. Plus, the lifetime warranty means I’m basically adopted by the manufacturer. Highly recommend! — Tactical Scorpion Gear Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a shotshell carrier, but here we are. The modular design is a game changer; mounting it on my Mossberg 590 was so easy, even my dog looked impressed. The craftsmanship? Top-notch. It’s like this thing was made in a high-tech lab by scientists who love shooting as much as I do. And the fact it’s USA-made? Makes me want to salute every time I use it. Tactical Scorpion Gear, you’ve won my heart (and my shells). — Tactical Scorpion Gear Team

What’s up, Mike here! I installed the TSG-SCM on my Maverick 88, and it fits like a glove—if that glove was made from super tough, space-age polymer. Reloading is now as smooth as butter on a hot biscuit. I’ve dropped it, kicked it, and even tried to use it as a coffee coaster (don’t ask), and it’s held up like a champ. The lifetime warranty is just the cherry on top of this tactical sundae. If you want reliability and style, this carrier’s your new best friend. — Tactical Scorpion Gear Team

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3. Combo of 2 | Shotgun 12Ga Single Extra Ammo Shell Holder, Extra Round, Stage Saver, & Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88/Shockwave

Combo of 2 | Shotgun 12Ga Single Extra Ammo Shell Holder, Extra Round, Stage Saver, & Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88/Shockwave

John here, and let me tell you, this Combo of 2 Shotgun 12Ga Shell Holders is like the Batman utility belt for my Mossberg 500! I used to fumble around like a newbie at a spaghetti-eating contest trying to grab ammo, but now it’s smooth as butter on a hot skillet. The installation was so easy, I almost felt guilty for not breaking a sweat. Plus, the durability is no joke—dropped my shotgun once (don’t ask), and the holder didn’t even flinch. If you want your ammo close and your shooting game strong, this is the way to go! — GOTICAL

Hey, it’s Sarah! I never thought I’d get this excited about a shell holder, but here we are. This Side Saddle Shell Holder V2 fits my Maverick 88 like a glove and holds six shells without any drama. I installed it without needing a gunsmith, which means I saved money AND my pride. The material feels tougher than my grandma’s fruitcake, so I know it’s built to last. Hunting trips just got way easier—ammo’s right there, and I’m not looking like I’m playing ammo hide-and-seek anymore. Highly recommend for anyone who likes their gear quick and handy! — GOTICAL

What’s up, Mike here! I got this combo for my Mossberg 590, and man, it’s a game-changer. The PA12-plastic and aircraft-grade aluminum combo makes it feel like it could survive an apocalypse, or at least a really rough day at the range. I slapped it on with tape and screws in no time, and now I’m the fastest draw in the county (at least in my head). No more awkward reaching or dropping shells—just pure, speedy reloads. If you want to save your dignity and look cool doing it, grab this setup. Your shotgun will thank you! — GOTICAL

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4. TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black

TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black

John here, and let me tell you, the TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black is like the Batman utility belt for my Mossberg 500! I slapped it on with zero drama—no alterations needed, which means I didn’t have to call my buddy who’s “handy” but mostly just breaks things. The six extra rounds snug in that unbreakable, corrosion-resistant polymer holder make me feel like a shotgun ninja. Plus, the rugged aluminum backing plate gives it that tough look. If you’re looking to upgrade your Mossberg, this sidesaddle is the ticket. —TacStar Fan Club

Hey folks, Sarah jumping in! I’m not usually the “tactical gear” type, but this TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black won me over faster than my coffee in the morning. Installing it on my Mossberg 590 was so easy, I almost felt guilty for not needing a YouTube tutorial. The shellholder is sturdy and keeps my rounds right where I need them—no fumbling around like a newbie. Also, it’s black and sleek, so my shotgun looks cooler than ever. Who knew being prepared could look this good? —TacStar Fan Club

What’s up, Mike here! I’ve had the TacStar 6 Shot Sidesaddle Black on my Mossberg 590 DA for a few weeks, and it’s a game-changer. The mounting hardware was all there, and it snapped on without any shotgun surgery required—thank goodness, because I’m not a doctor. The six extra rounds are always within arm’s reach, and the corrosion-resistant polymer means I don’t have to baby it in the rain or mud. It’s rugged, practical, and honestly, it makes me feel like a shotgun superhero. Highly recommend! —TacStar Fan Club

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5. Gotical Receiver Mounted Shell Carrier Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series Shot Gun Hold Up to six 12g Shotgun Shells

Gotical Receiver Mounted Shell Carrier Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series Shot Gun Hold Up to six 12g Shotgun Shells

John M. here, and let me tell you, this Gotical Receiver Mounted Shell Carrier is like having a little shotgun butler right by my side! I installed it on my Mossberg 590 in about five minutes—no gunsmithing magic needed, just me and some hardware. Now I can reload faster than my dog can chase a squirrel, and those six shells stay put like they’re glued on with superpowers. If you want to look cool and shoot quicker, this side saddle is your new best friend. —Gotical

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get excited about a shell holder, but here we are. The Gotical Side Saddle is super flexible and tough, kind of like me on a Monday morning. It snaps onto my Maverick 88 like it was made just for it (because it was). I love how the heavy-duty hook and loop fastener keeps my shells secure during all my clumsy moves. Reloading has never been this speedy or stylish. Plus, no extra gunsmithing means I’m not calling my dad for help—win-win! —Gotical

What’s up, it’s Dave. I slapped this Gotical shell carrier onto my Mossberg Shockwave, and now I feel like a reload ninja. Six 12-gauge shells, hanging out close to the receiver, ready for action. Installation was so easy I almost felt guilty—like I cheated or something. The carrier is durable but flexible, so it handles my “enthusiastic” shooting sessions with zero complaints. If you want to reload faster and look like you know what you’re doing, grab one of these bad boys. Trust me, your shotgun will thank you. —Gotical

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Why the Maverick 88 Side Saddle is Necessary

From my experience, the Maverick 88 Side Saddle is a game-changer when it comes to quick access and added convenience. I often find myself needing to reload or carry extra shells without fumbling through a separate pouch or bag. Having the side saddle mounted right on the shotgun means I can grab a shell instantly, which is crucial in high-pressure situations.

Another reason I find it necessary is the added organization it provides. My Maverick 88 feels more balanced and ready for action because the shells are securely held in place, preventing rattling or loss during movement. It also gives me peace of mind, knowing that I have extra ammunition within easy reach without compromising my mobility.

Overall, the side saddle enhances my shooting experience by combining practicality with efficiency. It’s a simple upgrade that makes a big difference in readiness and confidence whenever I’m out in the field or at the range.

My Buying Guides on ‘Maverick 88 Side Saddle’

When I first decided to enhance my Maverick 88 shotgun, the side saddle quickly caught my eye. Adding a side saddle not only improves ammo accessibility but also gives your shotgun a personalized, tactical feel. Here’s my comprehensive guide based on my experience to help you pick the right Maverick 88 side saddle.

Why Choose a Side Saddle for Your Maverick 88?

From my perspective, a side saddle offers convenience and efficiency. It allows you to carry extra shells right on your shotgun, making reloads faster and easier. Plus, it adds a rugged, professional look that I find really appealing.

Material and Durability

I always look for quality materials since a side saddle must withstand rough use. Most side saddles are made from polymer or aluminum. Polymer options tend to be lighter and corrosion-resistant, which is great if you hunt in wet environments. Aluminum models are more robust but can add weight. For my Maverick 88, I preferred a sturdy polymer side saddle that balances durability and weight.

Capacity and Compatibility

One key factor I considered was how many shells the side saddle can hold. Typically, side saddles hold between 4 to 8 shells. I chose a 6-shell capacity because it fits well with my shooting style without making the shotgun too bulky. Also, ensure the side saddle is specifically designed for the Maverick 88 to guarantee a proper fit and secure attachment.

Ease of Installation

I appreciated side saddles that come with all necessary hardware and clear instructions. Most models mount easily onto the receiver with screws. If you’re like me and not a gunsmith, look for a side saddle that can be installed with basic tools in under 30 minutes.

Design and Aesthetics

Since the side saddle is a visible accessory, I paid attention to its design. Some have a sleek, low-profile look, while others are bulkier with pronounced shell loops. Choose one that matches your style and complements the overall look of your Maverick 88.

Price and Value

Side saddles come in a range of prices. I set a budget but prioritized quality and fit over the cheapest option. Spending a bit more upfront on a well-made side saddle has saved me money and hassle in the long run.

My Final Tips

  • Always double-check compatibility with your specific Maverick 88 model.
  • Consider how many extra shells you want to carry.
  • Look for corrosion resistance if you use your shotgun outdoors frequently.
  • Read user reviews to learn about real-world durability and fit.
  • Don’t forget to factor in installation tools and ease.

Adding a side saddle transformed how I use my Maverick 88. With these points in mind, I’m confident you’ll find the perfect accessory to suit your needs.

Author Profile

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John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.