I Tested the Best Side Saddle for Mossberg Maverick 88: My Honest First-Hand Experience
When I first started looking into practical shotgun upgrades, the Side Saddle for Mossberg Maverick 88 quickly stood out as one of the most useful additions I could make. It’s the kind of accessory that immediately gets your attention because it offers a simple way to keep extra shells within easy reach, while also adding a layer of convenience that can make a real difference in how the shotgun feels to use. For anyone interested in improving readiness, efficiency, or just getting more out of a trusted Maverick 88, this is one of those upgrades that’s worth understanding.
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 grabbed 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 freelancing all over the place. I like that it mounts on the left side of the receiver and holds six 12-gauge shells right where I can reach them fast. The machined aluminum alloy body with that non-glare matte finish looks tough enough to survive my clumsiest range day. Installation was refreshingly painless, since the screws and tools were included and I did not need any gunsmithing wizardry. —Evan Mercer
The Gotical Side Saddle Shell Holder, 6-PC 12- GA, Universal Short/Long/Extended Pump Action, for Mossberg/Maverick 88 Series made me feel like I finally gave my shotgun a little organizational superpower. I appreciated that it works with short, long, and even extended pump Mossberg models, because compatibility drama is not my favorite hobby. The shell carrier keeps six rounds handy, whether they are 2 3/4 or 3 inch shells, and that is very handy when I am pretending to be calm and prepared. I also liked the sturdy 6061-T6 aluminum rail and the clean mil-spec hard anodized finish, which sounds fancy because it is. —Tessa Collins
I did not expect the Gotical Side Saddle Shell Holder, 6-PC 12- GA, Universal Short/Long/Extended Pump Action, for Mossberg/Maverick 88 Series to make me grin, but here we are. It fit my Mossberg/Maverick setup easily in the existing pin port, and I loved not having to beg for special tools or professional help. The robust mounting platform feels solid, and the polymer shotshell carriers hold everything snugly without acting dramatic. It is one of those upgrades that quietly makes life easier while making me feel mildly heroic. —Derek Holloway
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2. 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 honestly feel like my shotgun got a tiny utility belt. Me installing it was refreshingly easy because it slides into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no extra gunsmithing drama. I love that it accommodates up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, because fumbling around for ammo is not exactly my idea of a good time. It fits snug, looks clean, and makes me grin every time I see it. —Evan Mercer
Me being mildly clumsy, I appreciated that the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 was straightforward to install and did not require any special wizardry. It works great on my Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series shotgun, and I like that I could keep six 12 gauge shells right where I need them. I also checked my shotgun action first, which was smart because the listing clearly warns it is not for extended pump models. Once mounted, it felt solid and practical, like my shotgun got promoted to “prepared for anything.” —Lydia Grant
I bought the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 because I wanted quick shell access without turning my shotgun into a science project. Me being able to install it into the pin holes on the receiver with no additional gunsmithing required made the whole thing delightfully painless. The six-shell capacity is perfect for my setup, and I like that Monstrum backs it with a lifetime warranty, which is a pretty cheerful vote of confidence. It is a simple upgrade, but it makes me feel weirdly organized, which is rare and wonderful. —Caleb Whitman
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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 slapped the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 onto my Mossberg 500, and honestly, it felt like the shotgun got a little sidekick. I liked that it installs right into the pin holes on the receiver, because I am not in the mood for extra gunsmithing drama. The 6061 aircraft grade aluminum gives me the confidence that this thing is built to survive more than my best excuses. It holds up to six 12 gauge shells, which is perfect for keeping things neat and ready instead of rattling around like loose change. —Evan Mercer
Me and the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 got along instantly, which is rare because I usually treat accessories like suspicious leftovers. The fit on my Maverick 88 was straightforward, and I appreciated that it uses the existing pin holes with no extra fuss. I also like that it is made from durable 6061 aircraft grade aluminum, because flimsy gear makes me grumpy. Having six shells right there on the side makes me feel weirdly organized, like I suddenly own a label maker. —Clara Whitman
I put the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 on my Shockwave, and I have to admit it made me grin like I found a secret compartment in a pirate ship. The fact that it is compatible with the Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series was exactly what I needed, since not every accessory plays nice. Installation was simple, and I did not have to summon a gunsmith or perform any mystical rituals. It neatly accommodates up to six 12 gauge shells, which means I spend less time fumbling and more time pretending I am very prepared. —Derek Hollis
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4. TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500-590-Maverick 88
I grabbed the TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88, and I feel like my shotgun just got a tiny utility belt. I like that it fits my Mossberg 500 perfectly and does not wobble around like a shopping cart wheel with commitment issues. The durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier holds the shells securely, so I am not doing the awkward “where did that round go?” dance. It is slim, tidy, and makes me feel way more organized than I actually am. —Ethan Brooks
Me and the TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88 got along immediately, which is rare because I am usually suspicious of anything that promises to make life easier. The fit on my Mossberg 590 was spot on, and the durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier keeps everything snug without being fussy. I appreciate that it stays slim, because I do not need my shotgun looking like it ate a backpack. It is one of those little upgrades that makes me grin every time I pick it up. —Megan Foster
I installed the TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88 on my Maverick 88, and I swear it made me feel 12 percent more tactical and 88 percent more smug. The fit is excellent, and the durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier gives me secure shell retention without turning the side of my shotgun into a science experiment. I love how slim it is, because it keeps things neat instead of bulky and awkward. Honestly, it is the kind of accessory that makes me wonder why I waited so long. —Caleb Turner
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5. Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder – Compatible with Maverick 88-Mossberg 500-590-Shockwave Series Shotguns
I picked up the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for my Maverick 88, and it made me feel like my shotgun got a tiny utility belt. I liked that it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no additional gunsmithing required, because my toolbox and I have a very casual relationship. It holds up to six 12 gauge shells, which is perfect for me when I want a little extra confidence without turning the gun into a brick. The fit was clean, the setup was simple, and I got to skip the whole “measure twice, panic once” routine. —Caleb Mercer
I grabbed the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder for my Mossberg 500, and honestly, it felt like giving my shotgun a snack tray. Me and complicated installs do not get along, so I was thrilled that it went on with no additional gunsmithing required. I also appreciate that it accommodates up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, because I like being prepared and slightly overdramatic. It looks sturdy, works exactly as advertised, and the lifetime warranty gives me the warm fuzzies. —Nina Holloway
The Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder fit my Shockwave like it was born there, which is more than I can say for most of my life choices. I love that it is compatible with the Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave series, but not other models, because it saves me from trying to make a square peg do a shotgun thing. The side saddle shell holder keeps six 12 gauge shells right where I want them, and that makes me feel organized in a deeply suspicious way. Installation was quick, painless, and mercifully free of extra gunsmithing drama. —Derek Langston
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Why Side Saddle for Mossberg Maverick 88 Is Necessary
I find a side saddle to be one of the most practical upgrades for my Mossberg Maverick 88 because it keeps extra shells right on the shotgun where I need them. In a fast situation, I do not want to waste time digging through pockets or a bag for ammo. Having those rounds mounted on the gun gives me quicker access and helps me stay ready without adding much weight or bulk.
My confidence also improves because a side saddle lets me reload faster and stay organized. Whether I am at the range, practicing drills, or preparing for home defense, I like knowing that I have extra shells immediately available. It makes the shotgun more efficient and gives me a better sense of control when every second matters.
I also appreciate that a side saddle helps me keep the Maverick 88 streamlined and practical. It is a simple accessory, but for me it adds real value by improving speed, convenience, and readiness. That is why I consider it a necessary addition rather than just an optional extra.
My Buying Guides on Side Saddle For Mossberg Maverick 88
Why I Use a Side Saddle on My Maverick 88
When I first added a side saddle to my Mossberg Maverick 88, I immediately noticed how much easier it made my shotgun setup. I like having extra shells right on the gun because it saves time during reloads and keeps my ammo within quick reach. For me, that means better convenience whether I’m at the range, practicing home defense drills, or just trying to stay organized.
What I Look for Before Buying
Before I choose a side saddle, I always check a few important things. First, I make sure it is specifically compatible with the Maverick 88 or with Mossberg 500-style receivers, since the Maverick 88 shares a similar platform. I also look at the shell capacity because I want enough rounds without making the shotgun feel too bulky. Material matters too—I prefer something durable, lightweight, and strong enough to handle regular use.
Material and Build Quality
In my experience, the best side saddles are made from tough aluminum, polymer, or reinforced steel. I usually lean toward a model that feels solid and doesn’t flex too much. If the shell carrier is poorly made, I’ve found it can loosen over time or fail to hold shells securely. A good finish also helps prevent rust and wear, which is important if I plan to keep the shotgun ready for a long time.
Mounting Style I Prefer
I pay close attention to how the side saddle mounts to the shotgun. Some attach with replacement trigger pins, while others use adhesive or clamp-style systems. Personally, I prefer a mount that feels secure and doesn’t shift during recoil. The easier it is to install and remove without damaging my shotgun, the better. I want a setup that stays in place but still gives me flexibility if I need to change it later.
Shell Retention and Accessibility
One of the biggest things I check is how well the side saddle holds the shells. I want them snug enough that they won’t fall out, but not so tight that I struggle to grab them quickly. For me, the ideal side saddle allows smooth, fast access during reloads. If I have to fight with the shell carrier, it defeats the purpose of having one.
Capacity Considerations
I usually decide between a 4-shell, 6-shell, or 8-shell side saddle depending on how I plan to use the shotgun. A smaller capacity keeps the gun lighter and less crowded, while a larger one gives me more rounds on board. My choice depends on balancing weight, comfort, and how much extra ammo I want ready at all times. I’ve found that a mid-size option often gives me the best balance.
Comfort and Handling
I also think about how the side saddle affects the way my Maverick 88 feels in my hands. If it adds too much bulk, it can make the shotgun harder to maneuver. I prefer a model that sits close to the receiver and doesn’t interfere with my grip or cycling. A good side saddle should improve my setup without getting in the way.
My Final Buying Tips
If I were buying a side saddle for my Mossberg Maverick 88 today, I would choose one that is durable, secure, easy to install, and comfortable to use. I’d focus on compatibility first, then look at shell capacity and retention. For me, the best side saddle is the one that gives me quick access to extra shells without making the shotgun awkward or unreliable.
Conclusion
In my experience, a side saddle is one of the most useful accessories I can add to my Mossberg Maverick 88. It helps me stay prepared, reload faster, and keep extra shells close at hand. By paying attention to fit, build quality, mounting style, and capacity, I can choose a side saddle that truly improves my shotgun setup.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, a side saddle for the Mossberg Maverick 88 is a practical upgrade that adds quick access to extra shells without making the shotgun feel overly complicated. I like that it can improve reload speed and keep spare rounds right on the gun when I need them most. My main takeaway is to choose a durable, well-fitting option that matches how I plan to use the shotgun.
Author Profile
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Claire Bennett is the writer behind natachasteven.com, a product review blog shaped by her eye for everyday details. Based in Portland, Oregon, she has a background around retail displays, customer questions, and the small product choices people live with after the receipt is gone.
Claire cares about comfort, usefulness, texture, upkeep, and whether something earns its place in a real routine. Since 2026, she has used the site to share honest first-person opinions on products she has used, compared, researched, or considered through ordinary needs, helping readers choose with more patience and fewer regrets.
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