What is Remington 870 Side Saddle? 🤔
It is a convenient accessory designed for the popular Remington 870 shotgun. It’s utilized for quick and efficient reloading of the firearm. The component attaches to the side of the shotgun, providing holders for additional shells, thus ensuring that ammunition is always within reach. It’s especially useful in high-pressure situations where speed and accessibility significantly impact performance.
Features 🧐
❇️ One of the key features is its robust construction. Made from high-quality, durable materials, it’s designed to withstand harsh conditions and heavy usage, ensuring long-term reliability.
❇️ The design is another standout feature. It offers a streamlined fit that doesn’t interfere with the overall handling of the shotgun. It is equipped with shell holders that keep the ammunition secure even in fast-paced or turbulent situations, reducing the risk of accidental shell drop.
❇️ The ease of installation is another notable feature. It attaches swiftly and securely to the side of the shotgun, requiring minimal tools and expertise. This user-friendly design makes it a popular choice among shotgun owners.
❇️ Lastly, the Side Saddle enhances the functional efficiency of the shotgun. Positioning additional ammo within easy reach allows for quick and seamless reloading, which can be particularly beneficial in high-pressure situations where every second counts.
Benefits 😏
💢 The core benefit of a side saddle is the ability to keep extra rounds instantly accessible without needing to dig through pockets or gear. Shotguns typically only hold between 4-8 shells total in the under-barrel magazine tube. A side saddle adds an additional 6-8 rounds mounted right on the receiver, well within the shooter’s reach. ➡️ This means more ammunition can be accessed quickly without taking the firearm out of the shoulder firing position.
💢 By having those extra shells right on the gun itself, reloading the shotgun is vastly sped up. Shotshells can be accessed and loaded singlehandedly in seconds. ➡️ This is critically important in high-volume shooting sports like 3 gun competitions. Police and defence users also benefit from accelerated reloads in tense situations.
💢 Quality items securely retain shells in machined or moulded slots until needed. This protects ammunition from falling out or getting bumped around during routine handling. The solid construction also shields shotshell primers from exposure that could lead to misfires. ➡️ Reliable retention and protection enable the side saddle to serve as on-gun auxiliary storage.
💢 They allow hunters, competition shooters and law enforcement to segregate speciality rounds from standard loads. Different types of slugs or less-than-lethal rounds can be stored separately for selective access. Colour coding slots help identify ammunition at a glance. ➡️ This modular flexibility helps the shooter match ammo to specific situations.
Maintenance 🤠
✅ Firstly, it’s important to gently remove the side saddle from the shotgun. You should remember to keep all the screws and bolts safe as losing these small parts can pose a challenge when reassembling.
✅ Secondly, wipe off any visible dirt or grime from the saddle using a soft cloth. You may opt to use a cleaning solution specifically designed for gun parts. When using such a solution, it’s suggested to apply it to the cloth rather than directly onto the saddle to prevent over-saturation.
✅ Moreover, it’s essential to examine the shell holders carefully. Over time, they may accumulate dust and debris. A soft brush or a can of compressed air can be effective in cleaning these tighter spaces. Remember to clean gently to avoid damaging the holders or displacing them from their designed position.
✅ Finally, once the side saddle is thoroughly cleaned, you should allow it to dry completely before reattaching it to the shotgun. Regular lubrication of the attaching mechanism is also recommended, ensuring smooth attachment and detachment. When reassembling, do it carefully, ensuring that all parts are correctly and securely fitted.
Best Remington 870 Side Saddle Review
1# TacStar Slimline SideSaddle Shell Holder
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The TacStar Slimline SideSaddle Shell Holder is a sleek, slimline shell carrier that is perfect for those who want a more streamlined look. The aluminium backing plate is strong and rigid, and the synthetic rubber shell carrier is durable and flexible, with secure shell retention. The reduced size and streamlined shape of the Slimline SideSaddle reduce the chances of snagging on clothing or gear.
2# TacStar 12 Gauge 6Rd Remington 870 Side Saddle
If you’re looking for a reliable and tough shotgun shell holder, then look no further than the TacStar 12 Gauge 6Rd Remington 870 Side Saddle. This holder is made from unbreakable polymer and aluminium, making it resistant to corrosion and wear and tear. It’s easy to mount and doesn’t require any gunsmithing, making it perfect for anyone. Additionally, it’s proudly made in the USA.
3# TacStar Shotgun Rail Mount with Sidesaddle
The TacStar Shotgun Rail Mount with Sidesaddle is a great way to add extra firepower to your shotgun. This billet aluminium mount fits snugly on your Remington 870, 1100 or 11-87 12 gauge shotgun, and provides a Picatinny rail on top for attaching scopes or red dot sights. Additionally, the innovative new low-profile six-shells sidesaddle means you can have quick access to additional ammo when you need it most.
4# Mesa Tactical Sureshell Shotshell Carrier For Remington 870
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Mesa Tactical’s Sureshell Shotshell Carrier is the perfect way to increase the amount of ammo you can carry on your Remington 870 shotgun. The carrier is made from 6061-T6 aircraft aluminium for durability and is bead-blasted and Mil-spec hard anodized for a rugged, non-glare finish. It’s secured to application-specific brackets with a unique arrangement of threaded fasteners and includes high-temperature adhesive-backed die-cut rubber gaskets to protect the shotgun’s finish. The Sureshell Carrier is available in three configurations: four-shell, six-shell and eight-shell. Carriers can be installed on either side of the receiver.
5# Mesa Tactical SureShell® Polymer Carrier for Remington
The Mesa Tactical SureShell® Polymer Carrier for Remington is the perfect on-gun shotshell carrier for those who are looking for a product that is both durable and reliable. This carrier is made from aluminium and features a black finish, making it perfect for both tactical and hunting applications. The Mesa Tactical SureShell® Polymer Carrier for Remington can hold up to 6 shells at a time and is compatible with 12 gauge firearms.
6# Mesa Tactical Receiver Mount Shotshell Holder
When it comes to tactical reloads, the Mesa Tactical Receiver Mount Shotshell Holder has you covered. This rugged and lightweight aluminium shell holder puts extra 12 gauge shotshells on the left side of the receiver for fast and easy access. The shells are held in place with a unique, internal Santoprene elastomer rib that securely retains even heavy slug shells during vigorous movement or heavy recoil. The holder is available in side-mount or Picatinny rail configurations and includes all necessary installation hardware, tools, and instructions.
The side mount version is available in 4-, 6-, and 8-round capacities and uses steel-on-steel, threaded adapters that replace the trigger group pins to anchor the shell holder securely to the receiver. The Remington 870 shotguns require a shortened, tactical-style forend to accommodate 6- and 8-round side mount units. The Remington 1100/11-87 requires minor forend alterations for proper fitment.
7# Tactical Scorpion Gear Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier
The Tactical Scorpion Gear Sidesaddle Shotshell Carrier is a state-of-the-art design that is made from USA-produced polymers. It is a modular design that mounts directly to the side of the weapon for quick access to shells. It is compatible with Remington 870, 1100, 11-87 ect 12 gauge shotguns and comes with mounting screws and an Allen wrench. It has a lifetime warranty and is great for civilians & off-duty officers.
8# Gun & Flower Side Saddle Shotshell Carrier
Hunting and shooting are serious hobbies that require the very best in equipment. That’s why gun enthusiasts will love the Gun & Flower Side Saddle Shotshell Carrier. This top-of-the-line carrier fits Remington 870, 1100 and 1187 12 gauge shotgun models, and is made from impact-resistant, durable aluminium. It also features a silica step that increases resistance so the magazine will be more stable in the holder. The 12 gauge saddle accommodates up to six 12 gauge shells, and the aluminium plate fits the butt of a shotgun perfectly, with no deformation. Plus, it comes with mounting screws and an Allen wrench. Best of all, this great accessory comes with a lifetime guarantee.
9# Ideagle Shotgun Shell Holder Side Saddle
The Ideagle Shotgun Shell Holder Side Saddle is the perfect option for those looking for a well-made and durable shotgun shell holder! These holders are made of high-quality plastic and fit all 12 gauge Mossberg 500s, 590s, and most other shotguns. They’re easy to install too – each holder comes with two double-sided stickers that can be mounted on most shotguns without any screws. Plus, the included wet and dry wipes make it a breeze to get a clean surface for optimal adhesion.
10# ProMag Archangel 7-Round Shell Holder
The ProMag Archangel 7-Round Shell Holder is a high-quality accessory for your Remington 870 shotgun. This shell carrier mounts to the side of the receiver and is precision moulded from polymer for a secure hold. It features an aluminium mounting plate and a patent-pending retention adjustment system that allows you to fine-tune the level of retention for each shell. The rubber gasket protects your firearm’s finish from scratches. The shell carrier will not interfere with the pump action forend when used with military-length forends.
11# Monstrum Side Saddle 12 Gauge Shotgun Shell Holder
The Monstrum Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Holder offers a dependable and straightforward way to keep your 12 gauge shotgun shells close by. This unit easily installs into the pin holes on the side of the receiver with no additional gunsmithing required and can accommodate up to six shotgun shells. It’s also compatible with other shotgun models, making it a great choice for any shotgun enthusiast. And best of all, it comes backed by a lifetime warranty, so you can be sure it’s built to last.
12# Ultimate Arms Gear Pro Series Side Saddle
The Ultimate Arms Gear Pro Series Side Saddle is the best way to carry 6 extra 12 gauge rounds. It mounts directly to the shotgun receiver with an aircraft-grade aluminium mounting plate, and all mounting screws and hex head wrenches are included. There is no gunsmithing required for a quick, easy, and secure installation. The length is 6.75″, the width is 2.5″, and the net weight is 5 oz.
13# Allen Buttstock Shotgun Shell Holder for shotguns
The Allen Buttstock Shotgun Shell Holder is perfect for those who need a reliable and tough holder for their shotgun shells. This holder slides onto the butt of most shotguns in seconds and features elastic ammunition loops that keep your shells in place. It holds up to 5 shotgun shells in an easy-to-access position and is constructed from durable materials that will last for years. So go ahead and put this holder to the test – it’s sure to meet all your expectations.
14# Boomstick Shotshell Carrier Kit Side Saddle Holder
The Boomstick Shotshell Carrier Kit Side Saddle Holder is a great choice for anyone looking for an easy-to-install, convenient shotshell carrier. This carrier holds 6 rounds and fits Remington 870, 1110, & 1187 shotguns. It’s easy to install, with all mounting screws and hardware included, and requires no gunsmithing in most cases.
15# Adaptive Tactical Saddle Mount Shell Carrier
The Adaptive Tactical Saddle Mount Shell Carrier is the perfect way to keep your shells close to the receiver for faster reloads. The low-profile rail design allows for the use of factory bead sites, and the streamlined, lightweight aluminium design fits closely to the contours of the receiver. The chemical and weather-resistant synthetic rubber flexes to securely hold shells yet retains shape over time.
16# ATI Outdoors Gen2 Halo 9-Shell Customizable Shotgun Side Saddle
With a sleek skeletonized design, the Gen2 Halo side saddle is perfect for both competitive shooters and hunters alike. It also comes with a limited lifetime warranty for peace of mind. And it’s easy to install, too – no gunsmithing required. Simply use the included 8/32 screws to mount it to your shotgun receiver.
17# G&G Remington 870 Tac-14 5-Shot Side Saddle with Rectangular QD
The G&G Remington 870 Tac-14 5-Shot Side Saddle is a must-have addition to your firearm. With no modifications required for installation, this side saddle mounts solidly to your receiver using the provided steel trigger pin replacement bolts. It also includes a quick detach rear sling mount with a 1-1/4 inch QD sling swivel. The non-marring backing plate will not damage the receiver’s finish and holds 5 rounds of 12 ga ammunition.
18# GG&G Remington 870 Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Carrier
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The GG&G Remington 870 Side Saddle Shotgun Shell Carrier is an efficient and easy-to-install method of carrying extra shotgun shells. No modifications are required to the weapon for installation, and the mount is solid and will not damage the receiver’s finish. The serial number remains visible through the backing plate, and the design facilitates the speed of bottom loading the magazine tube or the top loading of the chamber.
Shotshells can be retained in base up or base down positions, and the retention system is durable, oil-resistant, and replaceable. The carrier is made from 6061 T-6 aluminium, is type III hard anodized black per mil-spec, and is ergonomically designed for easy use. It also features lightning cuts for weight reduction. This high-quality product is manufactured in specialized factories.
19# Aridus Industries LLC – Quick Disconnect Shotgun Shell Carrier
The Aridus Industries LLC Quick Disconnect Shotgun Shell Carrier is a game-changer for shotgunners. This carrier enables you to have extra rounds at the ready, quickly and easily. It is designed for the Remington Model 870 pump-action shotgun, but can also be mounted on the company’s popular 11-87 and 1100 shotguns.
The Quick Disconnect Shotgun Shell Carrier is machined from a single piece of 6061-T6 aluminium and is installed with a steel latch and stainless-steel torsion spring that keeps the carrier secured on the side of the shotgun’s receiver. Each carrier is treated with a Type 3 hard-coat-anodized finish and also includes a skeletonized design that helps reduce weight.
20# Lyman Side Saddle Shell Holder
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add more firepower to your shotgun, the Lyman Side Saddle Shell Holder is the perfect solution. This lightweight, moulded-nylon shell carrier attaches to the side of your receiver using the existing pin/screw holes, with no permanent alterations or gunsmithing required.
It’s available in four- and six-round models to fit a variety of popular law enforcement shotguns, and the Rem. 870/1100/11-87 ESN model features a convenient window in the mounting plate that leaves the weapon’s serial number exposed for easy viewing. This is a great option for armourers and law enforcement agencies who need to track their firearms by serial number for inventory, maintenance, and record-keeping purposes.
21# Vang Comp Systems – Detachable Side Ammo Carrier
The Vang Comp Systems DSAC is the perfect accessory for your Remington 870/1100/11-87 shotgun. This receiver-mounted carrier puts 6 additional shells at your fingertips for fast and easy reloading. The lightweight shell carrier is made of durable aluminium and features a hook-and-loop attachment system that makes installation and removal a breeze.
The elastic webbing on the carrier holds shells tight even when wet, and the cut-out in the mounting plate allows you to view the receiver serial number. The DSAC is available in 12 gauge only, and deluxe models come with 2 shell carriers. Additional shell carriers are available separately.
Installation 😬
🛠️ You will need a screwdriver or hex key, depending on the specific design of your side saddle. It’s also advisable to have a small container to hold the screws and bolts during the installation process to prevent misplacement.
🟡 To begin, ensure your shotgun is unloaded and safe to work on. Open the action to verify the chamber and magazine tube are clear of any ammunition. Please remember, that safety is paramount when handling firearms, even during maintenance or modification.
🟡 Next, you’ll want to remove the existing pins from the receiver of your Remington 870 using your screwdriver or hex key. These pins are typically located just above and below the trigger assembly.
🟡 Once the pins are removed, align your side saddle with the holes where the pins were previously located. Once aligned, insert the new, longer pins provided with the side saddle and tighten them securely but do not over-tighten as this could potentially damage the threading or the receiver.
🟡 The installation process is now complete, and it’s time to test the side saddle’s fit and retention. Insert some dummy shells and ensure they are held securely. The shells should be tight enough not to fall out, but loose enough to be removed with a firm pull.
⚠️ Finally, always remember to check the functionality of your shotgun after any modification. Cycle the action several times and dry fire (in a safe direction) to ensure that everything still works correctly.
Watch this video to find more information 💻
FAQ ❓
Conclusion 🤩
The addition of a side saddle to your Remington 870 shotgun can greatly enhance your firearm’s functionality and efficiency, particularly in high-intensity shooting situations. However, proper installation, cleaning, and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the side saddle.
By taking the time to understand these processes and diligently following safety procedures, you can effectively utilize your side saddle and experience the benefits it brings to your shooting performance. We gave you some tips to help you choose the right one for your needs.
So whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been using side saddles for years, we hope this article will be helpful.
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Hey folks, I’ve been having some issues with my Remington 870 side saddle. It seems like the rounds are not feeding smoothly, and I’m getting some jams. Any ideas on how to solve this problem?
Hey there, Colton, sorry to hear about your feeding issues with your Remington 870 side saddle. Feeding problems can be frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and hopefully resolve the issue:
🟪 Check the Shell Placement: Make sure that the shells are seated properly in the side saddle and not too tightly packed. Sometimes, shells can bind or overlap, causing feeding problems.
🟪 Inspect Screws and Mounting: Ensure that the screws holding the side saddle in place are tightened securely. Loose screws can affect the alignment and cause jams.
🟪 Clean Your Shotgun: Check the condition of your shotgun’s magazine tube and follower. Any corrosion, dirt, or debris in these areas can hinder smooth feeding. A thorough cleaning might help.
🟪 Polish the Shell Holder: If the edges of the shell holder have any rough spots or burrs, consider gently polishing them. This can prevent the shells from catching and causing jams.
🟪 Evaluate the Ammo: Different shotgun shells can have slightly varying dimensions. Sometimes, a specific brand or type of shell may not feed well in your side saddle. Try different types of ammunition to see if the issue persists.
🟪 Inspect the Follower: Check the condition of the follower in your magazine tube. If it’s damaged or worn, it might not be providing proper guidance to the shells. Consider replacing it with a high-quality aftermarket follower.
🟪 Contact Manufacturer Support: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, reach out to the manufacturer of your side saddle. They may be able to provide specific guidance or offer replacement parts if necessary.
🛑 Remember to always follow safe firearm handling practices when troubleshooting or making modifications. Keep your shotgun unloaded during the process and ensure it is in a safe direction. I hope these tips help you get your Remington 870 side saddle working smoothly again. Let us know how it goes!
I had a similar issue a while back. First, check if the rounds are seated properly in the side saddle and not binding. Also, make sure the screws holding the side saddle in place are tightened securely. Loose screws can cause misfeeds.
The same problem with my Remington 870 side saddle. Turned out, it was a spring tension issue. I adjusted the tension slightly, and it solved the feeding problems. Just be careful not to over-tighten the spring; you don’t want to crush your shells.
Thanks for the tips, everyone. I’ll give these suggestions a try and see if they solve my feeding problems. It’s frustrating when your shotgun isn’t running smoothly.
I’ve been using the TacStar Side Saddle on my Remington 870 for a while now, and it’s been solid. Easy to install, holds six rounds, and it hasn’t caused any feeding issues. Plus, it’s affordable.
Another thumbs up for the TacStar. I’ve also heard good things about the Mesa Tactical side saddle. Anyone here have experience with that one?
I’ve got the Mesa Tactical side saddle on my Remington 870, and I love it. It’s a bit pricier than the TacStar, but the build quality is excellent. Holds 6 or 8 rounds, depending on the model you choose. Never had a single issue with it.
Hello! Are there any compatibility issues with stocks or forends?
When installing a side saddle on a Remington 870, there are a few potential compatibility issues to be aware of with certain shotgun stocks and forends:
🔰 Stocks with tight tolerances – Some aftermarket stocks contour the left side of the receiver very tightly, leaving little clearance for a saddle’s mounting bracket. This can prevent proper installation.
🔰 Pistol grip stocks – Because pistol grips sit high on the rear of the receiver, their design may interfere with the saddle’s shell retainers, blocking loading.
🔰 Adjustable stocks – Stocks featuring adjustable combs or lengths may limit saddle mounting positions if the stock is extended.
🔰 Oversize/Tactical forends – Forends with excessively large pump handles could potentially contact the saddle during cycling and impede function.
🔰 Forend light attachments – Mounted flashlights or accessories on the forend may prevent it from fully seating against the receiver with the saddle in place.
🔰Heat shields – Some tactical forend heat shields fully surround the barrel and can hit the saddle in operation. Low profile shields avoid this.
🛑 The key is confirming adequate clearance between the saddle and any replaced stocks or forends. Minor fitting modifications may be required in some cases to allow proper installation and operation. Testing cycling by hand without live ammo is recommended after installing any saddle. Overall, saddle compatibility is very broad if clearances are verified.