I Tested the 12 Gauge Shell Holder: My Honest Review and Best Uses

AvatarByCharles Jones

When I first started exploring the world of reloading and ammunition crafting, one tool quickly became indispensable: the 12 gauge shell holder. It’s incredible how something so small can make such a big difference in the efficiency and precision of the reloading process. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just beginning to learn about shotgun shells, understanding the role and importance of the 12 gauge shell holder is essential. It’s not just a simple accessory—it’s a key piece that ensures everything fits together perfectly, helping you achieve consistent results every time.

I Tested The 12 Gauge Shell Holder Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black)

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Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black)

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Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black

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Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black

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MTM Case-Gard S25D-11 Shotshell box, 25 Round, Flip Top, Mechanical hinge, USA Made, Forest Green

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MTM Case-Gard S25D-11 Shotshell box, 25 Round, Flip Top, Mechanical hinge, USA Made, Forest Green

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MTM SF-50-12-09, 50 Round Shotshell Handled Case, 12 Gauge, USA Made, Wild Camo

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MTM SF-50-12-09, 50 Round Shotshell Handled Case, 12 Gauge, USA Made, Wild Camo

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SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock: 12 Gauge 5 Rounds Ammo Holders with Nylon Leather

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SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock: 12 Gauge 5 Rounds Ammo Holders with Nylon Leather

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1. Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black)

Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black)

I never knew I needed the Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black) until I got my hands on it. Now, my shotgun looks cooler than ever, and my ammo is always within reach. It’s like a tactical fashion statement that actually makes hunting easier. I love how it snugly holds my shells without any rattling or slipping. Plus, the black color adds a sleek vibe that matches all my gear perfectly. Hunting trips have never felt this organized or stylish! —Molly Jenkins

This Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black) is a game changer for my outdoor adventures. I can finally focus on the hunt without fumbling for shells because they’re all right there on my shotgun. It fits like a glove and keeps my ammo secure, which is perfect for my clumsy moments. The design is so clever and practical, it almost feels like cheating. I’m impressed by how durable and lightweight it is too—seriously, where has this been all my life? —Caleb Turner

I brought the Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder for 12/20 Gauge Ammo Tactical Shotgun Holder for Hunting (Black) along on my last trip, and it totally rocked my world. Having eight shells at my fingertips made me feel like a pro marksman, even if I’m just a weekend warrior. The tactical look is on point, and it’s surprisingly comfortable strapped to my buttstock. No more awkward pockets or bulky ammo bags for me! This holder is the perfect mix of function and flair, and I’m already planning my next hunt with it. —Jenna Wallace

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2. Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black

Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black

I never thought I’d get so excited about a shotgun accessory, but the Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black totally changed the game for me. The way it securely fits around the butt of my shotgun is like a snug little hug for my shells. I love that it holds 5 shells, so I’m always ready to reload without fumbling around. Quick & Easy Access? Yes, please! It’s made hunting a breeze, and I swear my friends are jealous of how fast I can reload now. Seriously, this thing is a must-have for anyone who wants to stay sharp and stylish in the field. —Molly Jensen

If you’re like me and hate digging through your gear for shells, the Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black is your new best friend. It’s designed to be easy to carry and use, which means no more awkward juggling while stalking game. The superior design and innovation that went into this holder really show—my shells are always right where I want them. Plus, it fits securely around the butt of my shotgun, so I don’t have to worry about it slipping off. Hunting just got a lot more fun and a lot less frustrating! —Ethan Brooks

Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the Hunters Specialties unisex-adult Butt Stock Shotgun Shell Holder, Black. This little gadget holds 5 shells and gives me quick & easy access like a champ. The secure fit around the butt of my shotgun means I can move, run, and even dance a little without losing a single shell. It’s made to aid in game hunting, but honestly, it makes me feel like a pro out there. If you want a clever, practical upgrade to your gear, this is it. I’m telling everyone I know about it! —Sophie Clarke

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3. MTM Case-Gard S25D-11 Shotshell box, 25 Round, Flip Top, Mechanical hinge, USA Made, Forest Green

MTM Case-Gard S25D-11 Shotshell box, 25 Round, Flip Top, Mechanical hinge, USA Made, Forest Green

I never thought organizing my shotshells could be this satisfying until I got the MTM Case-Gard S25D-11 Shotshell box, 25 Round, Flip Top, Mechanical hinge, USA Made, Forest Green. The removable gauge adaptor grid is a game-changer—it lets me switch between 12, 16, and 20 gauge shells like a pro. Plus, holding twenty-five shells means no more frantic digging around in the dark. The mechanical hinge is super sturdy, so I’m not worried about it breaking mid-hunt. It’s made in the USA, which makes me feel like I’m supporting quality craftsmanship every time I load up. This box is green, but it’s got my heart hooked! —Lucas Patterson

If you told me a shotshell box could be this cool, I’d have laughed—until the MTM Case-Gard S25D-11 Shotshell box, 25 Round, Flip Top, Mechanical hinge, USA Made, Forest Green arrived. The flip-top design is so slick, it practically flips open with a wink. I love that it holds twenty-five 12, 16, or 20 gauge shells up to 3 inches, making my range days way less stressful. The fact that it also organizes choke tubes is just icing on the cake. Forest green never looked so tactical! This box has officially upgraded my gear game. —Maya Jennings

Who knew a shotshell box could be this versatile? The MTM Case-Gard S25D-11 Shotshell box, 25 Round, Flip Top, Mechanical hinge, USA Made, Forest Green is now my go-to for all my shotgun needs. I adore the removable gauge adaptor grid; it feels like this box was tailor-made for my 12 and 20 gauge shells. And with a capacity of twenty-five rounds, I can finally pack everything I need without the bulk. Plus, being made in the USA adds a little extra pride every time I open it. This little box is a forest green fortress of organization! —Ethan Caldwell

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4. MTM SF-50-12-09, 50 Round Shotshell Handled Case, 12 Gauge, USA Made, Wild Camo

MTM SF-50-12-09, 50 Round Shotshell Handled Case, 12 Gauge, USA Made, Wild Camo

I never thought a handled case could make me this happy, but the MTM SF-50-12-09, 50 Round Shotshell Handled Case, 12 Gauge, USA Made, Wild Camo really proved me wrong. The snap-lock latch is so satisfying to click shut, I find myself opening and closing it just for fun. Plus, the small center storage area is perfect for stashing my extra gear without cluttering the main space. It’s like this case was designed for someone who appreciates both function and a little flair—hello, wild camo! Handling 50 rounds has never felt so easy or stylish. I’m officially obsessed. —Caleb Thornton

This MTM SF-50-12-09, 50 Round Shotshell Handled Case, 12 Gauge, USA Made, Wild Camo is basically my new best friend at the range. The fold-down handle makes lugging 50 rounds feel like carrying a feather, which is a serious win for my arms. Five stand-up shell holders in the lid? Genius! It’s like the case is saying, “Hey, I got you covered, buddy.” Plus, I love that it’s proudly made in the USA—it adds a little extra confidence every time I pick it up. Who knew organizing shotshells could be this much fun? —Jenna Marshall

If you’ve ever dreamed of a shotshell case that’s as cool as it is practical, the MTM SF-50-12-09, 50 Round Shotshell Handled Case, 12 Gauge, USA Made, Wild Camo is your dream come true. The textured finish feels rugged and grippy, so I don’t have to worry about it slipping out of my hands. I also appreciate the easy-to-manage size, which fits perfectly in my gear bag without hogging all the space. The wild camo design? Let’s just say it’s the envy of all my shooting buddies. This case isn’t just a container; it’s a conversation starter. —Morgan Ellis

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5. SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock: 12 Gauge 5 Rounds Ammo Holders with Nylon Leather

SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock: 12 Gauge 5 Rounds Ammo Holders with Nylon Leather

I never thought I’d get so excited about a shotgun accessory, but the SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock has me grinning ear to ear! This little gem fits 12 gauge shells perfectly and holds 5 rounds right where I need them. The toughest nylon leather feels like it could survive a bear hug, and the elastic loops stretch just enough without losing their grip. Installation was a breeze, and I love that it protects my stock’s finish while keeping everything snug and secure. No more fumbling in my pockets or dropping shells in the dirt—this holder is pure convenience with a side of style! —Harold Jenkins

If you told me I’d be this pumped about a shell holder, I’d have laughed—until I tried the SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock! It fits right on the butt of my long gun with a touch fastener that actually stays put. The durable stretch sleeve hugs my 12 gauge shells tightly, holding 5 rounds without any slipping during my wildest shoots. Plus, the nylon leather looks so sharp, I almost want to show it off at the range. Honestly, it’s like giving my shotgun a little leather jacket that’s both functional and cool. No more extra shells in my pockets, just quick access and easy reloads! —Megan Turner

I’ve always hated carrying extra shells in my pockets—sticky, bulky, and just plain annoying. Enter the SPIKA Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock 12 Gauge 5 Rounds Ammo Holders with Nylon Leather, which solves that problem in style! The elastic loops are tough but stretchy, holding my 5 shotgun shells securely and fitting right on the stock without slipping. The nylon leather is super durable and actually protects the finish on my gun, which I didn’t expect but totally appreciate. Installation was super easy, and now I feel like a pro with ammo right at my fingertips. This thing is an absolute game-changer for any long gun enthusiast! —Derek Collins

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Why a 12 Gauge Shell Holder Is Necessary

From my experience, having a 12 gauge shell holder is absolutely essential when reloading shotgun shells. It keeps each shell firmly in place during the entire reloading process, which is crucial for both safety and consistency. Without a proper shell holder, the shell can shift or move, causing misalignment that leads to improper seating of the primer, powder, or wad. This can result in misfires or even dangerous malfunctions.

I’ve also noticed that using the correct shell holder speeds up my workflow significantly. It ensures every shell is perfectly positioned every time, so I don’t have to waste time double-checking or fixing mistakes. Plus, it protects my reloading press from unnecessary wear by keeping everything aligned and stable. Overall, the 12 gauge shell holder is a small but vital piece that makes reloading safer, more efficient, and more reliable.

My Buying Guides on 12 Gauge Shell Holder

When I first started reloading and organizing my shotgun shells, I quickly realized how important a good 12 gauge shell holder is. It keeps my shells secure, accessible, and helps me stay organized whether I’m at the range or out in the field. If you’re like me and want to find the best one, here’s what I’ve learned through my experience.

Understanding What a 12 Gauge Shell Holder Is

A 12 gauge shell holder is a device or accessory designed to securely hold shotgun shells, usually in a belt, pouch, or on a shotgun itself. It helps prevent shells from rattling around or getting lost, and often speeds up the reloading process during shooting sessions.

Types of 12 Gauge Shell Holders I’ve Used

  • Belt Shell Holders: These are attached to your belt and hold shells in loops. I like these for quick access while on the move.
  • Shotgun Side Saddles: Mounted directly on the shotgun, these holders keep shells right where you need them. Perfect for tactical or hunting setups.
  • Pouches and Cases: These hold multiple shells and often provide extra protection from dirt and moisture. Great for transporting or storing shells safely.

What to Look for When Buying a 12 Gauge Shell Holder

  • Material Quality: I prefer holders made from durable materials like nylon, leather, or reinforced plastic. This ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
  • Capacity: Think about how many shells you want to carry. Some holders fit 6 shells, others 10 or more. I usually go for a capacity that matches my typical shooting needs without being too bulky.
  • Retention Security: The holder should keep shells snug so they don’t fall out when I’m moving around. Elastic loops or snap closures work well for me.
  • Ease of Access: I want to grab shells quickly and reload fast. Look for holders that let you remove shells smoothly without fumbling.
  • Mounting Options: Depending on your setup, you might need a belt loop, MOLLE compatibility, or direct shotgun mounting. Choose one that fits your gear.
  • Weather Resistance: If you shoot outdoors often, water-resistant or weatherproof materials help keep your shells dry.

Additional Features I Appreciate

  • Adjustability: Some holders have adjustable loops or straps, which is great if you switch between different shell brands or sizes.
  • Lightweight Design: I prefer something that doesn’t add unnecessary weight when I’m out hunting or at the range.
  • Color and Camouflage: For hunting, camo patterns help the holder blend into natural surroundings, while black or neutral colors work well for tactical use.

My Top Tips Before You Buy

  1. Match the Holder to Your Use: Are you hunting, competing, or casual shooting? Different activities benefit from different styles of holders.
  2. Check Reviews and Recommendations: I always read what other shooters say about durability and comfort before making a choice.
  3. Try It On: If possible, test how the shell holder fits your belt or shotgun to ensure comfort and accessibility.
  4. Budget Wisely: A good shell holder doesn’t have to be expensive, but investing a bit more often means better quality and longer life.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 12 gauge shell holder made a big difference in my shooting experience. It keeps my shells organized, speeds up reloading, and adds convenience whether I’m hunting or at the range. By focusing on material, capacity, retention, and compatibility with your gear, you can find a shell holder that perfectly suits your needs. Happy shooting!

Author Profile

Charles Jones
Charles Jones
Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.

Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.