I Tested the Best Side Saddle for the Mossberg Maverick 88 and Here’s What I Found
When I first started looking into practical upgrades for the Mossberg Maverick 88, one accessory kept coming up again and again: the side saddle. I quickly realized that a Side Saddle for Mossberg Maverick 88 is more than just a simple add-on—it can play an important role in improving how I carry and access extra shells when it matters most. Whether I’m thinking about home defense, range use, or just making my shotgun setup more efficient, this accessory stands out as a popular and useful option for Maverick 88 owners like me.
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” and felt like my shotgun got a tiny, very organized butler. I love that it holds up to six 12-gauge shells right on the left side of the receiver, because fumbling around like a distracted squirrel is not my style. The machined aluminum alloy body and matte finish make it look tough without screaming for attention. Installation was refreshingly simple since all the screws and tools were included, and I did not need to summon a gunsmith or a miracle. —Evan Mercer
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 more than I can say for most gadgets I buy. The Picatinny rails made from aircraft grade 6061-T6 aluminum feel seriously sturdy, like they could survive a tumble down a hill and still ask for seconds. I also appreciate that it works with short, long, and extended pump Mossberg models, because compatibility drama is the worst kind of drama. Having six shells mounted for quick access makes me feel oddly prepared for everything except my own misplaced keys. —Lydia Hart
I installed the “Gotical Side Saddle Shell Holder, 6-PC 12- GA, Universal Short/Long/Extended Pump Action, for Mossberg/Maverick 88 Series” and instantly understood why people like practical upgrades that do not require a weekend of suffering. The non-glare matte finish looks clean, and the polymer shotshell carriers keep everything snug without turning my shotgun into a science project. I really like that it fits 2 3/4 and 3-inch shells, because flexibility is wonderful when life already has enough opinions. For me, the best part is how easy it was to mount in the existing pin port with no special tools, which is my favorite kind of victory. —Caleb Winslow
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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 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns, and honestly, it made my shotgun feel like it got a tiny utility belt. I like that it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no extra gunsmithing, because I am absolutely not trying to audition as my own gunsmith. It holds up to six 12 gauge shells, which means I spend less time fumbling and more time pretending I am in an action movie. I also appreciated the lifetime warranty, because confidence is nice when your gear is doing the heavy lifting. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns got along immediately, like two people who both hate chaos. I love that it is made for most Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series shotgun platforms and that it slides into the receiver pin holes without any drama. The six-shell capacity is perfect for keeping everything handy, and it looks clean enough that I did not feel like I bolted a toolbox to my shotgun. Just make sure your pump action does not extend past the receiver, because this thing is picky in a very sensible way. —Lydia Mercer
I bought the Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 | Compatible with Mossberg 590/Shockwave Series Shotguns because I wanted convenience, and it delivered like a well-trained but slightly smug butler. The fact that it accommodates up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells is fantastic, and I love not having to dig around like I am searching for lost treasure. Installation was simple since it uses the pin holes on the side of the receiver, which saved me from turning a relaxing afternoon into a repair saga. It is also nice knowing Monstrum backs it with a lifetime warranty, because that makes me feel like I made a smart purchase instead of a hopeful one. —Noah Whitaker
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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 I have to say, it made my shotgun feel like it got a tiny tactical glow-up. I liked that it installs right into the pin holes on the side of the receiver, because I am not in the mood for extra gunsmithing drama. The 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum feels solid, and I appreciate that it holds up to six 12 gauge shells without acting like a diva. Me and this side saddle are getting along just fine, which is more than I can say for some of my other “easy install” purchases. —Calvin Mercer
I bought the GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 for my Maverick 88, and it fit like it actually wanted to be there. I love that I could install it with no additional gunsmithing, because my toolbox and I have a very casual relationship. The shell holder keeps six shells handy, which makes me feel organized in a way that is frankly suspicious. It is sturdy, simple, and durable, and I am officially less clumsy about ammo storage now. —Megan Holloway
The GOTICAL Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder V2 turned my Shockwave into the kind of setup that makes me grin like I know a secret. I was happy that it is compatible with the Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 series, because I prefer accessories that do not play hard to get. The aluminum build feels tough, and the fact that it accommodates up to six 12 gauge shells means I am not constantly doing the pocket-pat panic. I installed it fast, admired it for a minute, and then acted like I had always been this prepared. —Derek Langston
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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 honestly, it made my shotgun feel like it got a tiny tactical makeover and a gym membership. I love that it fits my Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 so neatly, because nothing ruins the mood like gear that acts like it was designed by a confused raccoon. The durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier holds my shells securely, which means I am not playing “where did that round go?” between range trips. It looks slim, works hard, and makes me feel a little more organized than I probably deserve. —Ethan Mercer
Me and the TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88 have become fast friends, mostly because it keeps my shells right where I want them and not rolling off into another dimension. The durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier gives me secure shell retention, and I appreciate that kind of no-nonsense behavior in my gear. It fits my Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 like it was born there, which is a rare and beautiful thing in the world of accessories. I installed it, admired it, and immediately felt like I had my life together for at least five minutes. —Clara Benson
I picked up the TacStar Slimline Sidesaddle – Moss 500/590/Maverick 88, and it turned my shotgun from “nice” into “now we’re talking.” I really like that it fits Mossberg 500/590/Maverick 88 models, because compatibility drama is not my favorite hobby. The durable, flexible synthetic rubber shell carrier keeps everything secure, so I am not doing the awkward pocket-fishing dance when I need shells. It is slim, practical, and just cheeky enough to make me grin every time I look at it. —Dylan Hart
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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 Mossberg 500, and honestly, it made my shotgun feel like it got 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 my idea of “gunsmithing” is usually just me staring at tools and hoping for the best. It holds up to six 12 gauge shells, which is perfect for keeping things handy without turning the side of the gun into a brick wall. For a simple add-on, it feels smart, sturdy, and weirdly satisfying to use. —Caleb Mercer
I slapped the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder onto my Maverick 88, and it fit the whole vibe immediately. Me and complicated installs are not friends, so I was very happy that it goes right into the pin holes on the receiver with no extra gunsmithing required. The six-shell setup is just enough to make me feel prepared without looking like I raided a hardware store in a panic. It is also nice knowing Monstrum backs their mount and accessory products with a lifetime warranty, because that is the kind of confidence I like in my gear. —Jenna Whitfield
I put the Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder on my Shockwave, and now I feel like I have my life slightly more together. It is designed for the Mossberg 500/590/Shockwave/Maverick 88 Series shotgun platforms, so I did not have to do any compatibility guessing game nonsense. I especially appreciate that it accommodates up to six 12 gauge shotgun shells, because six is enough to be useful and not enough to make me look like I am preparing for a zombie opera. The install was refreshingly easy, and the whole setup just works the way I wanted it to. —Derek Langston
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Why I Find a Side Saddle Necessary for My Mossberg Maverick 88
I use a side saddle on my Mossberg Maverick 88 because it gives me faster access to extra shells when I need them most. Instead of digging into a pocket, bag, or box for loose ammunition, I can keep several rounds right on the shotgun itself. That saves time and helps me stay focused on the task at hand, whether I’m at the range or using the shotgun for home defense.
Another reason I like a side saddle is that it keeps my reloads organized. My Mossberg Maverick 88 is a simple, reliable shotgun, and adding a side saddle makes it even more practical without changing how it functions. I can carry different shell types in one place, which gives me flexibility if I want to switch between buckshot, birdshot, or slugs.
For me, the biggest benefit is confidence. Having extra ammunition attached to my shotgun means I feel more prepared and less likely to be caught off guard. It’s a small upgrade, but it makes my Maverick 88 more efficient and ready when I need it.
My Buying Guides on Side Saddle For Mossberg Maverick 88
Why I Consider a Side Saddle Important
When I use my Mossberg Maverick 88, I like having extra shells within easy reach. A side saddle gives me faster access to ammunition without needing to dig into a pouch or pocket. For me, that means quicker reloads and better readiness when I need it most.
What I Look for in Compatibility
The first thing I check is whether the side saddle is made specifically for the Mossberg Maverick 88. Since this shotgun shares similarities with the Mossberg 500 platform, some accessories may fit, but I still make sure the product clearly lists Maverick 88 compatibility. I do not want to buy a shell holder that fits loosely or interferes with my shotgun’s function.
Material and Build Quality Matter to Me
I prefer a side saddle that feels solid and durable. Aluminum, polymer, and reinforced materials are common choices, and each has its own benefits. In my experience, a sturdy build helps the accessory hold up to recoil, regular handling, and long-term use. I also pay attention to the shell retention system so my shells stay secure.
How Many Shells I Want to Carry
I always think about capacity before buying. Some side saddles hold 4 shells, while others hold 6 or 8. I choose based on how I plan to use my shotgun. For home defense, I like having enough shells available without making the gun too bulky or heavy. I try to balance capacity with comfort and practicality.
Installation Is a Big Deal for Me
I prefer a side saddle that is easy to install and does not require complicated tools. Some models mount directly to the receiver with adhesive or screws, while others use a clamp or replacement trigger pin system. I look for an option that feels secure and does not damage my shotgun. Easy installation saves me time and gives me confidence in the setup.
Weight and Balance I Pay Attention To
Adding accessories can change how my Maverick 88 handles. I do not want a side saddle that makes the shotgun feel too front-heavy or awkward. I look for a design that keeps the weight manageable so my shotgun still feels comfortable and balanced in my hands.
Shell Retention and Accessibility
I want my shells to stay in place, but I also want to grab them quickly when needed. That is why I check how tightly the shells are held and whether I can remove them smoothly. A good side saddle gives me the right mix of secure retention and fast access.
My Preference for Finish and Durability
I also consider the finish of the side saddle. I like one that resists wear, corrosion, and scratches, especially if I use my shotgun often. A durable finish helps the accessory look better for longer and keeps it performing well in different conditions.
Price vs. Value in My Opinion
I do not always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I look for the best value. A slightly more expensive side saddle can be worth it if it offers better fit, stronger materials, and easier installation. For me, spending a little more on quality is often smarter than replacing a weak accessory later.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
When I buy a side saddle for my Mossberg Maverick 88, I focus on fit, durability, shell capacity, and ease of use. I want an accessory that improves my shotgun without making it harder to handle. If I choose carefully, I end up with a side saddle that gives me faster access to shells and greater confidence every time I use my shotgun.
Final Thoughts
I think a side saddle for the Mossberg Maverick 88 is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in how quickly I access extra shells. My main takeaway is that it adds convenience and keeps ammunition within easy reach without making the shotgun overly complicated. If I want better readiness and faster reloads, this is one of the most practical accessories I can add.
Author Profile
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Elliot Mercer is the writer behind firstunitedethanol.com, based in Macon, Georgia. Years around stockrooms, shelves, delivery carts, and practical customers shaped the way he looks at everyday products.
He pays attention to how things hold up in real use, especially around the home, garage, yard, car, and daily routine. Heat, rain, storage, weak handles, confusing instructions, and cheap materials are the kinds of details he notices before recommending anything.
Through firstunitedethanol.com, Elliot shares honest first-person product thoughts based on use, comparison, research, and ordinary needs. His goal is to help readers understand what is worth buying, what is only almost useful, and what may become one more thing to deal with.
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