Archived Posts » 59,757,950
Mesa Tactical side saddle = Larue of side saddles?
3/12/2012 2:14:32 AM
Need a side saddle for a Mossberg 930 SPX.
Looks like my choices are Tacstar, Mesa Tactical, and velcro/elastic ones used in 3 guns.
This shotgun will be used for duty use too. I guess Mesa Tactical is the one to go with?
Came across some archived threads were the Mesa side saddles caused malfunctions with the Mossberg 930.
These threads were 2 years old. Has this issue been rectified?
Hate to mention this, but have a Mossberg 500 I used for duty use between 1997 and 2003 and it had a Tacstar side saddle. It's still on there too. 
3/12/2012 2:46:45 AM
Pretty much, especially if you get one with the updated rubber pressure/friction tube thingy. Most sidesaddles of that type (replaces the trigger pins) can cause failures in semiauto shotguns if the screws are too tight, keep them the right tension and they have no effect on the reliability.
I like the Velcro 3 gun ones because you don't need to sit thumbing rounds back in to the side saddle during a lull in the fight, just rip the empty one off and slap a new, loaded one on.
I like the Velcro 3 gun ones because you don't need to sit thumbing rounds back in to the side saddle during a lull in the fight, just rip the empty one off and slap a new, loaded one on.
3/12/2012 3:01:13 AM
Originally Posted By para_frame:
Pretty much, especially if you get one with the updated rubber pressure/friction tube thingy. Most sidesaddles of that type (replaces the trigger pins) can cause failures in semiauto shotguns if the screws are too tight, keep them the right tension and they have no effect on the reliability.
I like the Velcro 3 gun ones because you don't need to sit thumbing rounds back in to the side saddle during a lull in the fight, just rip the empty one off and slap a new, loaded one on.
Pretty much, especially if you get one with the updated rubber pressure/friction tube thingy. Most sidesaddles of that type (replaces the trigger pins) can cause failures in semiauto shotguns if the screws are too tight, keep them the right tension and they have no effect on the reliability.
I like the Velcro 3 gun ones because you don't need to sit thumbing rounds back in to the side saddle during a lull in the fight, just rip the empty one off and slap a new, loaded one on.
Never even considered that.
I'm liking this shotgun rig too:
My shotgun would be stored in a case, which would be in my trunk usually.
We can't have racks up front. 
I guess the velcro ones might work for duty use.
3/12/2012 3:11:07 AM
I would love a OSOG micro rig, those things look so practical in the vids I have seen, if they just had the ability to stick a standalone rifle plate with it, I think it would be the perfect active shooter rig (along with a blow out kit in the medic pouch) for LEOs and other citizens.
3/12/2012 12:03:14 PM
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at! 
3/12/2012 12:12:00 PM
Originally Posted By TheTacticalCoyote:
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Checking it out. Thanks!
3/13/2012 8:12:31 AM
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
3/13/2012 8:30:28 AM
Originally Posted By jmarkma:
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
Can't leave a shell carrier...loaded? Am I reading that right? Isn't that kinda the whole point?
3/13/2012 8:33:35 AM
I need a carrier for my 930 SPX, and I like the Mesa's, but that whole malfunctioning thing has me holding off completely.
Extra ammo for a gun that wont shoot isn't exactly an acceptable trade off.
I've used Tac Star's in the past, which worked fine on my 590.....but I guess it's the semi-auto's that are problematic.
Extra ammo for a gun that wont shoot isn't exactly an acceptable trade off.
I've used Tac Star's in the past, which worked fine on my 590.....but I guess it's the semi-auto's that are problematic.
3/13/2012 9:11:56 AM
Originally Posted By M4:
Can't leave a shell carrier...loaded? Am I reading that right? Isn't that kinda the whole point?
Originally Posted By jmarkma:
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
Can't leave a shell carrier...loaded? Am I reading that right? Isn't that kinda the whole point?
Geez. Another issue I need to look into.
I'm really leaning towards the Ares now.
3/13/2012 9:54:43 AM
Originally Posted By BIKECOP29:
Geez. Another issue I need to look into.
I'm really leaning towards the Ares now.
Originally Posted By M4:
Can't leave a shell carrier...loaded? Am I reading that right? Isn't that kinda the whole point?
Originally Posted By jmarkma:
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
Can't leave a shell carrier...loaded? Am I reading that right? Isn't that kinda the whole point?
Geez. Another issue I need to look into.
I'm really leaning towards the Ares now.
It says not to leave it loaded in the instructions. Claims it is only meant to be loaded when leaving the armory as the rubber retainer will deform and remain deformed for a while if left loaded for long periods. The directions also say it will slowly come back into shape if left unloaded and there is a stiffer section included as well. I would have reconsidered purchasing this had I known prior.
ETA: Notice it says nothing about this in their product description, misleading in my opinion imo.
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?id=56
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?s=4_support
Note that the SureShell shotshell carrier is not designed for long-term storage of
shells on the weapon. It is instead designed for professional use in which the shells are
replaced in the carrier during armory checkout. Storing shells in the carrier over long
periods can deform the elastomer, resulting in a degradation of the shell retention
efficacy. However, if the shells are removed from the carrier for a few hours the elastomer
will reform to its original shape.
shells on the weapon. It is instead designed for professional use in which the shells are
replaced in the carrier during armory checkout. Storing shells in the carrier over long
periods can deform the elastomer, resulting in a degradation of the shell retention
efficacy. However, if the shells are removed from the carrier for a few hours the elastomer
will reform to its original shape.
3/13/2012 10:12:54 AM
Originally Posted By jmarkma:
It says not to leave it loaded in the instructions. Claims it is only meant to be loaded when leaving the armory as the rubber retainer will deform and remain deformed for a while if left loaded for long periods. The directions also say it will slowly come back into shape if left unloaded and there is a stiffer section included as well. I would have reconsidered purchasing this had I known prior.
ETA: Notice it says nothing about this in their product description, misleading in my opinion imo.
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?id=56
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?s=4_support
Originally Posted By BIKECOP29:
Geez. Another issue I need to look into.
I'm really leaning towards the Ares now.
Originally Posted By M4:
Can't leave a shell carrier...loaded? Am I reading that right? Isn't that kinda the whole point?
Originally Posted By jmarkma:
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
Can't leave a shell carrier...loaded? Am I reading that right? Isn't that kinda the whole point?
Geez. Another issue I need to look into.
I'm really leaning towards the Ares now.
It says not to leave it loaded in the instructions. Claims it is only meant to be loaded when leaving the armory as the rubber retainer will deform and remain deformed for a while if left loaded for long periods. The directions also say it will slowly come back into shape if left unloaded and there is a stiffer section included as well. I would have reconsidered purchasing this had I known prior.
ETA: Notice it says nothing about this in their product description, misleading in my opinion imo.
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?id=56
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?s=4_support
Note that the SureShell shotshell carrier is not designed for long-term storage of
shells on the weapon. It is instead designed for professional use in which the shells are
replaced in the carrier during armory checkout. Storing shells in the carrier over long
periods can deform the elastomer, resulting in a degradation of the shell retention
efficacy. However, if the shells are removed from the carrier for a few hours the elastomer
will reform to its original shape.
shells on the weapon. It is instead designed for professional use in which the shells are
replaced in the carrier during armory checkout. Storing shells in the carrier over long
periods can deform the elastomer, resulting in a degradation of the shell retention
efficacy. However, if the shells are removed from the carrier for a few hours the elastomer
will reform to its original shape.
Appreciate the post.
Looks like Ares for me now.
Now to find sling mounts, sling, and flashlight mount. Probably going with a GG&G bolt handle and follower too.
3/13/2012 12:21:18 PM
Originally Posted By jmarkma:
It says not to leave it loaded in the instructions. Claims it is only meant to be loaded when leaving the armory as the rubber retainer will deform and remain deformed for a while if left loaded for long periods. The directions also say it will slowly come back into shape if left unloaded and there is a stiffer section included as well. I would have reconsidered purchasing this had I known prior.
ETA: Notice it says nothing about this in their product description, misleading in my opinion imo.
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?id=56
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?s=4_support
Originally Posted By BIKECOP29:
Geez. Another issue I need to look into.
I'm really leaning towards the Ares now.
Originally Posted By M4:
Can't leave a shell carrier...loaded? Am I reading that right? Isn't that kinda the whole point?
Originally Posted By jmarkma:
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
Can't leave a shell carrier...loaded? Am I reading that right? Isn't that kinda the whole point?
Geez. Another issue I need to look into.
I'm really leaning towards the Ares now.
It says not to leave it loaded in the instructions. Claims it is only meant to be loaded when leaving the armory as the rubber retainer will deform and remain deformed for a while if left loaded for long periods. The directions also say it will slowly come back into shape if left unloaded and there is a stiffer section included as well. I would have reconsidered purchasing this had I known prior.
ETA: Notice it says nothing about this in their product description, misleading in my opinion imo.
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?id=56
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?s=4_support
Note that the SureShell shotshell carrier is not designed for long-term storage of
shells on the weapon. It is instead designed for professional use in which the shells are
replaced in the carrier during armory checkout. Storing shells in the carrier over long
periods can deform the elastomer, resulting in a degradation of the shell retention
efficacy. However, if the shells are removed from the carrier for a few hours the elastomer
will reform to its original shape.
shells on the weapon. It is instead designed for professional use in which the shells are
replaced in the carrier during armory checkout. Storing shells in the carrier over long
periods can deform the elastomer, resulting in a degradation of the shell retention
efficacy. However, if the shells are removed from the carrier for a few hours the elastomer
will reform to its original shape.
Sounds like R&D over at Mesa Tactical should be researching more resiliant materials.
I have no interest in a shell carrier that needs to remain UNLOADED in order to maintain its integrity.
3/13/2012 12:23:28 PM
Originally Posted By BIKECOP29:
Appreciate the post.
Looks like Ares for me now.
Now to find sling mounts, sling, and flashlight mount. Probably going with a GG&G bolt handle and follower too.
Originally Posted By jmarkma:
It says not to leave it loaded in the instructions. Claims it is only meant to be loaded when leaving the armory as the rubber retainer will deform and remain deformed for a while if left loaded for long periods. The directions also say it will slowly come back into shape if left unloaded and there is a stiffer section included as well. I would have reconsidered purchasing this had I known prior.
ETA: Notice it says nothing about this in their product description, misleading in my opinion imo.
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?id=56
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?s=4_support
Originally Posted By BIKECOP29:
Geez. Another issue I need to look into.
I'm really leaning towards the Ares now.
Originally Posted By M4:
Can't leave a shell carrier...loaded? Am I reading that right? Isn't that kinda the whole point?
Originally Posted By jmarkma:
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
I'm not crazy about the fact that they say it's not good to leave the Mesa loaded. I just put one on my 870 and while it's stout I really would rather leave it loaded.
Can't leave a shell carrier...loaded? Am I reading that right? Isn't that kinda the whole point?
Geez. Another issue I need to look into.
I'm really leaning towards the Ares now.
It says not to leave it loaded in the instructions. Claims it is only meant to be loaded when leaving the armory as the rubber retainer will deform and remain deformed for a while if left loaded for long periods. The directions also say it will slowly come back into shape if left unloaded and there is a stiffer section included as well. I would have reconsidered purchasing this had I known prior.
ETA: Notice it says nothing about this in their product description, misleading in my opinion imo.
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?id=56
http://www.mesatactical.com/index.php?s=4_support
Note that the SureShell shotshell carrier is not designed for long-term storage of
shells on the weapon. It is instead designed for professional use in which the shells are
replaced in the carrier during armory checkout. Storing shells in the carrier over long
periods can deform the elastomer, resulting in a degradation of the shell retention
efficacy. However, if the shells are removed from the carrier for a few hours the elastomer
will reform to its original shape.
shells on the weapon. It is instead designed for professional use in which the shells are
replaced in the carrier during armory checkout. Storing shells in the carrier over long
periods can deform the elastomer, resulting in a degradation of the shell retention
efficacy. However, if the shells are removed from the carrier for a few hours the elastomer
will reform to its original shape.
Appreciate the post.
Looks like Ares for me now.
Now to find sling mounts, sling, and flashlight mount. Probably going with a GG&G bolt handle and follower too.
Excellent choice! That problem is why I sold my Mesa and picked up the Ares. If you buy it from Raven Concealment, it comes with the velcro piece to put on your shotgun. I bought mine straight from Ares and just picked up industrial strength velcro from Home Depot.
3/13/2012 1:26:50 PM
Originally Posted By TheTacticalCoyote:
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Agree. Got mine from Raven Concealment. So much lighter than the traditionl side saddles and, as mentioned above, when empty just rip it off and replace.
3/13/2012 1:55:34 PM
Velcro is the way to go.
3/13/2012 2:56:56 PM
Originally Posted By socommatthews:
Agree. Got mine from Raven Concealment. So much lighter than the traditionl side saddles and, as mentioned above, when empty just rip it off and replace.
Originally Posted By TheTacticalCoyote:
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Agree. Got mine from Raven Concealment. So much lighter than the traditionl side saddles and, as mentioned above, when empty just rip it off and replace.
How about this one?
http://www.esstac.com/Products/7%20Round%20Shotgun%20Card.php
I like the loop on it, and the price is good too.
3/13/2012 3:55:02 PM
Interesting posts. I have a Mesa side saddle on one of my Benelli shotguns and will have to see how it is for shell retention on my next range trip. I did change out the original rubber tubing piece inside for their newer white elastomer tubing and it holds much better now. Will try it out soon and post how it does. The original black tubing that they came with was junk.
3/13/2012 4:21:49 PM
Originally Posted By BIKECOP29:
How about this one?
http://www.esstac.com/Products/7%20Round%20Shotgun%20Card.php
I like the loop on it, and the price is good too.
Originally Posted By socommatthews:
Agree. Got mine from Raven Concealment. So much lighter than the traditionl side saddles and, as mentioned above, when empty just rip it off and replace.
Originally Posted By TheTacticalCoyote:
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Agree. Got mine from Raven Concealment. So much lighter than the traditionl side saddles and, as mentioned above, when empty just rip it off and replace.
How about this one?
http://www.esstac.com/Products/7%20Round%20Shotgun%20Card.php
I like the loop on it, and the price is good too.
Flippin sweet man. I didn't realize there was a 7 shot one. Looks like a win to me. I need to get 1 for sure.
3/13/2012 4:28:31 PM
Originally Posted By BIKECOP29:
How about this one?
http://www.esstac.com/Products/7%20Round%20Shotgun%20Card.php
I like the loop on it, and the price is good too.
Originally Posted By socommatthews:
Agree. Got mine from Raven Concealment. So much lighter than the traditionl side saddles and, as mentioned above, when empty just rip it off and replace.
Originally Posted By TheTacticalCoyote:
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Agree. Got mine from Raven Concealment. So much lighter than the traditionl side saddles and, as mentioned above, when empty just rip it off and replace.
How about this one?
http://www.esstac.com/Products/7%20Round%20Shotgun%20Card.php
I like the loop on it, and the price is good too.
This is what I run on my 930. I tried the Mesa side saddle but it didn't work well for me. I cut Velcro to fit the side of the receiver and butt stock.
3/13/2012 4:45:55 PM
Originally Posted By godrilla47:
This is what I run on my 930. I tried the Mesa side saddle but it didn't work well for me. I cut Velcro to fit the side of the receiver and butt stock.
Originally Posted By BIKECOP29:
How about this one?
http://www.esstac.com/Products/7%20Round%20Shotgun%20Card.php
I like the loop on it, and the price is good too.
Originally Posted By socommatthews:
Agree. Got mine from Raven Concealment. So much lighter than the traditionl side saddles and, as mentioned above, when empty just rip it off and replace.
Originally Posted By TheTacticalCoyote:
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Agree. Got mine from Raven Concealment. So much lighter than the traditionl side saddles and, as mentioned above, when empty just rip it off and replace.
How about this one?
http://www.esstac.com/Products/7%20Round%20Shotgun%20Card.php
I like the loop on it, and the price is good too.
This is what I run on my 930. I tried the Mesa side saddle but it didn't work well for me. I cut Velcro to fit the side of the receiver and butt stock.
Sweet. I'm off topic, but are you running a sling and flashlight too?
If so, what brand and what kind of mounts?
Looking at either a 2 or 3 point set up. Probably going to go with GG&G sling mounts. Still up in the air for a sling.
As for flashlight, need a mount for a Surefire 6P LED. Maybe an Elzetta?
3/13/2012 7:25:58 PM
Originally Posted By BIKECOP29:
Sweet. I'm off topic, but are you running a sling and flashlight too?
If so, what brand and what kind of mounts?
Looking at either a 2 or 3 point set up. Probably going to go with GG&G sling mounts. Still up in the air for a sling.
As for flashlight, need a mount for a Surefire 6P LED. Maybe an Elzetta?
Originally Posted By godrilla47:
This is what I run on my 930. I tried the Mesa side saddle but it didn't work well for me. I cut Velcro to fit the side of the receiver and butt stock.
Originally Posted By BIKECOP29:
How about this one?
http://www.esstac.com/Products/7%20Round%20Shotgun%20Card.php
I like the loop on it, and the price is good too.
Originally Posted By socommatthews:
Agree. Got mine from Raven Concealment. So much lighter than the traditionl side saddles and, as mentioned above, when empty just rip it off and replace.
Originally Posted By TheTacticalCoyote:
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Ares Gear Modular Shell Panel is where it is at!
Agree. Got mine from Raven Concealment. So much lighter than the traditionl side saddles and, as mentioned above, when empty just rip it off and replace.
How about this one?
http://www.esstac.com/Products/7%20Round%20Shotgun%20Card.php
I like the loop on it, and the price is good too.
This is what I run on my 930. I tried the Mesa side saddle but it didn't work well for me. I cut Velcro to fit the side of the receiver and butt stock.
Sweet. I'm off topic, but are you running a sling and flashlight too?
If so, what brand and what kind of mounts?
Looking at either a 2 or 3 point set up. Probably going to go with GG&G sling mounts. Still up in the air for a sling.
As for flashlight, need a mount for a Surefire 6P LED. Maybe an Elzetta?
If you're handy and you want pictures of the single point attachment I made just let me know. I don't like having to purchase a sling for every rifle so I just figure out ways to use a single point on all my gear.
3/14/2012 10:22:23 AM
I have had the Mesa shell holder for around five months now and I've never had a problem with the shells getting loose. it has the newer rubber insert and has been left loaded the entire time. From what I have heard, the issues have been reported with the older rubber insert. The Mesa is a solid unit.
3/14/2012 10:51:40 AM
Mesa is awesome. I use one on my 1100 for 3 gun and never had an issue. the rubber gaskets might wear out over time, so will velcro. I have see the recoil from a mossberg shear a tac star shell carrier right off the gun on the first shot of a guy's match. Not an issue with Mesa's metal construction.
If you want to leave it loaded for home defense then load it up and leave it; replace it once every other year or whatever. If you have to no-shit use it I hope you filled your mag tube first. If you need more than the initial 7 or 8 shells youve got some serious problems.
If you want to leave it loaded for home defense then load it up and leave it; replace it once every other year or whatever. If you have to no-shit use it I hope you filled your mag tube first. If you need more than the initial 7 or 8 shells youve got some serious problems.
3/14/2012 11:17:50 AM
Originally Posted By -GuNuT-:
I have had the Mesa shell holder for around five months now and I've never had a problem with the shells getting loose. it has the newer rubber insert and has been left loaded the entire time. From what I have heard, the issues have been reported with the older rubber insert. The Mesa is a solid unit.
I have had the Mesa shell holder for around five months now and I've never had a problem with the shells getting loose. it has the newer rubber insert and has been left loaded the entire time. From what I have heard, the issues have been reported with the older rubber insert. The Mesa is a solid unit.
Same experience as me, except mine has been going for 1.5+ years now.
3/15/2012 3:18:32 PM
I have a Mesa on my HD shotgun and no issues whatsoever in last year or so that I have had it. It came with a elastic piece installed and also the new piece just in case. I have not had any issues yet, maybe periodic shooting is enough for the material not to take a set. I also have the Esstacs for another shotgun, most for games... You can put one card on the side and then carry two more in a three AR mag pouch.
Whatever you get, make sure you practice re-loading from it .... a lot.
Whatever you get, make sure you practice re-loading from it .... a lot.
3/15/2012 10:18:50 PM
The advantage to the esstac units and similar is you can run the same reload platform on multiple guns. For me I am going to get 4-5 of the platforms and the have the velcro on my 870 and my 930SPX that way I get used to reloading from 1 platform regardless of the shotty I am using. The Mesa units are nice, but I can get 4 esstac panels for what 1 Mesa carrier runs and I don't ever have to worry about cycling issues with screws and pins.
Just my 2 cents.
Just my 2 cents.
3/15/2012 11:46:09 PM
Been using Mesa Tactical shell holders since they first came out with no issues due to long term loading of the carrier. Mesa sent me upgraded polymer inserts as an upgrade.
