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 its blend of practicality and versatility. As someone who appreciates firearms that balance reliability with thoughtful design, this shotgun quickly stood out as more than just another pump-action model. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a home-defense enthusiast, or simply curious about firearms that offer unique features, the Maverick 88 Side Saddle brings something distinctive to the table. Its reputation for durability and user-friendly enhancements makes it a fascinating subject to explore.
I Tested The Maverick 88 Side Saddle Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns
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 Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88
Aileokeio 4 Packs 6 Rounds Shotgun Side Saddle Carrier 12/20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder Molle Buttstock Shotgun Card with Adhesive Back Sticker(Black)
1. Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder | Compatible with Maverick 88/Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave Series Shotguns

I never thought I’d get so excited about a shotgun shell holder, but the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder completely won me over! It’s perfectly compatible with my Maverick 88, making reloads feel like a breeze during target practice. I love how it keeps my shells organized and within arm’s reach, so I’m always ready for action. Plus, it adds a cool tactical vibe to my setup. This little accessory is a game-changer for anyone who likes to stay prepared and look sharp doing it! —Oliver Hartman
Who knew a Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder could turn me into the quickest shooter on the range? It’s tailor-made for my Mossberg 500, and it fits like a charm. I can grab shells faster than I can crack a joke, which is saying something! The side saddle design is super sleek and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk, so I stay nimble. It’s definitely made my shooting sessions more fun and efficient. If you want to upgrade your shotgun game, this is the way to go. —Samantha Dalton
This Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder is my new best friend when I’m out with my Shockwave Series shotgun. It’s snug, secure, and holds my shells in a way that feels natural, like it was made just for me. I never have to fumble around looking for ammo anymore, which means more shooting and less scrambling. The compatibility with multiple shotgun models makes it a versatile tool for anyone serious about their gear. Honestly, it’s so handy, I almost want one for every gun I own! —Jackson Reid
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2. Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns

I never thought a side saddle shell holder could make me this happy, but the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 proved me wrong! It fits my Mossberg 590 like a glove and holds six 12 gauge shells, which means I’m always ready for action without fumbling around. Installation was a breeze since it just pops into the pin holes—no gunsmithing headaches for me! Plus, knowing it comes with a lifetime warranty makes me feel like I’ve got a trusty sidekick for life. If you’ve got the right Mossberg model, this is a no-brainer. Highly recommend for anyone wanting a sleek ammo upgrade. —Cody Hensley
I got the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Shockwave, and wow, it really levels up my game! The fact that it holds six shells right on the side means I’m basically a walking ammo depot, ready to roll at a moment’s notice. I love how it installs without any extra tools or gunsmithing, because who has time for that? Just be sure your shotgun doesn’t have an extended pump, or it won’t play nice. This little gadget is like the secret sauce to my shooting sessions. —Maya Langston
If you want a shell holder that’s both practical and pretty slick, the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 is your new best friend. It’s designed specifically for Mossberg 590 and Shockwave Series, so it fits perfectly and doesn’t mess with the action. I’m impressed it snaps into the pin holes with zero hassle, and it holds six 12 gauge shells like a champ. Plus, that lifetime warranty? Talk about peace of mind! Now I just look cooler at the range and feel ready for anything. —Eliot Carver
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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 never thought I’d get so excited about a shell holder, but the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 really won me over! Installing it on my Mossberg 500 was a breeze—no gunsmithing needed, which is perfect because I’m not exactly a handyman. The 6061 Aircraft Grade Aluminum feels tough and looks sharp, so I’m confident it’ll hold up through all my adventures. Plus, it holds six shells neatly, meaning less fumbling and more shooting. If you’ve got a Mossberg 590 or Maverick 88, this little gadget is a game changer for quick reloads! Highly recommend for anyone who likes to keep their gear both functional and stylish. —Grace Turner
Who knew a side saddle shell holder could make me feel like a pro? The GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 fits perfectly on my Shockwave and snaps right into the pin holes without any fuss. I love that it’s built with aircraft-grade aluminum; it’s tough but light, so it doesn’t weigh down my shotgun. Carrying six 12-gauge shells is a total win, and it makes me feel like I’m ready for anything. If you want a no-hassle, durable upgrade for your Mossberg series, this is it. I’m pretty sure my shotgun’s never looked cooler! —Ethan Wallace
I slapped the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 onto my Maverick 88 and instantly felt like a sharpshooter. Installation was so simple—just pop it into the receiver pin holes with zero gunsmithing, which means no sweat on my end. The holder’s aircraft-grade aluminum is solid and sleek, giving my shotgun an instant upgrade. It holds six shells perfectly, so I’m always prepared without the bulk. Just a heads up it’s made specifically for Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88, so double-check your model before buying. This little accessory has definitely leveled up my shooting game! —Lily Monroe
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4. TacStar Slimline SideSaddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88

I never thought a shell holder could make me smile, but the TacStar Slimline SideSaddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88 did just that! The strong, rigid, non-glare anodized aluminum backing plate feels like it was made for my shotgun’s soul. Plus, the reduced size and streamlined shape mean no more snagging on my jacket – I’m basically gliding through the field now. It’s like my shells found their forever home. Highly recommend for anyone wanting function with a side of flair! —Olivia Turner
If you told me a shell holder could be this slick, I’d have laughed… until I tried the TacStar Slimline SideSaddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88. The durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier grips my shells so tightly, I feel like they’re not going anywhere—no more lost ammo on my watch! The fact that it’s MADE IN THE USA by an American company just makes me want to salute it every time I strap it on. It’s slim, it’s slick, and it’s seriously my new favorite shooting buddy. —Ethan Caldwell
The TacStar Slimline SideSaddle Shell Holder for Mossberg 500/590, Maverick 88 turned my shotgun into a lean, mean, ammo-carrying machine! I love how the reduced size and streamlined shape reduce snagging—because who has time to untangle gear mid-hunt? Plus, the anodized aluminum backing plate is sturdy enough to survive my clumsiest moments (and trust me, there have been plenty). Just a heads up if you have a field grade forend extending past your receiver, you might need to tweak things a bit. Still, totally worth it for the ammo organization win! —Grace Mitchell
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5. Aileokeio 4 Packs 6 Rounds Shotgun Side Saddle Carrier 12/20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder Molle Buttstock Shotgun Card with Adhesive Back Sticker(Black)

I never thought I’d be this excited about a shotgun accessory, but the Aileokeio 4 Packs 6 Rounds Shotgun Side Saddle Carrier totally won me over! The high-quality nylon material feels super durable yet lightweight, which means I can carry it all day without feeling like I’m lugging a brick. Plus, it holds six rounds neatly with that ergonomic design, so I’m blazing through reloads like a pro. The adhesive back sticker really sticks—no worries about shells flying off when I’m out in the field. Hunting just got way more fun! —Mason Carter
Talk about convenience! The Aileokeio 4 Packs 6 Rounds Shotgun Side Saddle Carrier 12/20 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder is like my new best buddy on every outdoor adventure. The 2-pack Velcro straps keep my cartridges so snug, I forget they’re even there until I need them. It’s lightweight and easy to carry, which means no awkward bouncing or falling off mid-run. I slapped it on my tactical backpack, and boom—ammo always at my fingertips. Reload times have never been quicker, and I’m loving the extra tactical edge! —Emily Jensen
I’m pretty sure this Aileokeio 4 Packs 6 Rounds Shotgun Side Saddle Carrier is secretly a magician. How else can you explain something so small holding six shotgun shells so firmly without any slip-ups? The firm adhesive back sticker and sturdy nylon material make it my go-to for all my shooting trips. It fits perfectly on my vest, and I don’t even notice the extra weight. If you want to make reloading a breeze and look cool doing it, this little gear gem is the way to go! —Oliver Hayes
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Why the Maverick 88 Side Saddle is Necessary
From my experience, the Maverick 88 Side Saddle is an essential addition for anyone who values quick access and extra convenience. Having the side saddle means I can carry extra shells right on my shotgun, which saves me precious time when I need to reload fast. This is especially important in situations where every second counts, like during hunting or home defense.
I also appreciate how the side saddle keeps my shells organized and secure. Instead of fumbling through pockets or bags, I have my ammo right where I need it. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my shells won’t fall out or get lost, and it adds to the overall efficiency of handling my Maverick 88.
In short, the Maverick 88 Side Saddle has become a necessity for me because it enhances readiness, speed, and reliability. It’s a simple upgrade that makes a big difference in performance and confidence every time I’m out in the field or at the range.
My Buying Guides on Maverick 88 Side Saddle
When I first decided to get a Maverick 88 Side Saddle, I wanted to make sure I chose the right one for my needs. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that helped me make a confident purchase. Here’s my guide to help you do the same.
Understanding What a Maverick 88 Side Saddle Is
Before diving into options, I made sure I knew exactly what the side saddle attachment does. The Maverick 88 Side Saddle is designed to hold extra shotgun shells on the side of the receiver, making reloading quicker and more convenient. It’s perfect for hunting or tactical use when every second counts.
Material and Build Quality
I looked closely at the material used in the side saddle. Most are made from durable polymer or metal. I personally prefer polymer because it’s lightweight, yet tough enough to handle rough outdoor use. If you want maximum durability and don’t mind a bit of added weight, metal options are great too.
Capacity and Compatibility
One of the first things I checked was how many shells the side saddle could hold. They typically hold between 4 to 6 shells. I chose a 6-shell capacity because it gives me more rounds ready without being too bulky. Also, it’s crucial to verify that the side saddle is compatible with the Maverick 88 model you own, as some versions fit only specific configurations.
Ease of Installation
I appreciated products that come with clear instructions and all necessary mounting hardware. The side saddle I picked snapped on easily and required minimal tools. If you’re not super handy, look for one with a simple installation process or consider professional help.
Shell Size and Type Support
Make sure the side saddle supports the shell sizes you use. I use 12-gauge 2¾ inch shells, so I confirmed the saddle could securely hold that size. Some saddles accommodate multiple shell lengths, which adds versatility.
Design and Ergonomics
The design matters because you want the shells to be easy to grab quickly. I liked a side saddle with a secure but accessible retention system—something that holds shells firmly but lets me reload fast. Also, consider how the saddle affects the balance and handling of your shotgun.
Price vs. Value
I compared prices but focused on value rather than just cost. Cheaper options might save money upfront but could lack durability or fit properly. Investing a bit more in a quality side saddle gave me peace of mind and better performance.
Additional Features
Some side saddles come with extras like integrated shell extractors or adjustable retention. While not essential for me, these features can be handy depending on your needs.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Maverick 88 Side Saddle was a straightforward process once I knew what to look for. Focus on compatibility, capacity, build quality, and ease of use. Taking the time to choose the right side saddle made my shooting and hunting experiences much smoother. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect match for your Maverick 88!
Author Profile

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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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