The TacStar 870 Side Saddle shotgun shell carrier is a popular choice among shotgun enthusiasts. This review delves into its features, pros, cons, and overall value, helping you decide if it's the right addition to your gear. We'll cover everything from its construction and capacity to its compatibility and real-world performance. Understanding the TacStar 870 Side Saddle will allow you to determine if it meets your specific needs for extra ammunition capacity.
Understanding the TacStar 870 Side Saddle's Design and Functionality
The TacStar 870 Side Saddle is designed to securely attach to the receiver of Remington 870 shotguns, providing readily accessible extra shells. This design prioritizes quick reloading in dynamic situations, which is crucial for tactical shooting or home defense. Its straightforward design makes it both easy to use and maintain. The shells are held firmly in place, minimizing the risk of accidental loss even during intense movement. The TacStar Side Saddle's construction is generally robust, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use.
Key Features of the TacStar 870 Side Saddle:
- High Capacity: Depending on the model, the TacStar 870 Side Saddle can hold between six and twelve extra shotgun shells. This significantly increases your ammunition capacity without adding bulk to the shotgun's overall dimensions.
- Secure Shell Retention: The design incorporates a system that firmly grips the shells, preventing them from falling out even when the shotgun is being moved or jostled.
- Easy Installation: Mounting the side saddle is typically a simple process that requires no special tools. This user-friendliness is a major advantage for those who are less mechanically inclined.
- Durable Construction: Usually made from durable polymer, the side saddle can handle the wear and tear of regular use, resisting damage from impacts or exposure to the elements. This durability is critical for a product that needs to withstand the stress of tactical applications.
- Relatively Affordable Price: The TacStar 870 Side Saddle offers a substantial increase in shell capacity at a reasonable cost compared to other shell carriers.
TacStar 870 Side Saddle: Pros and Cons
Like any product, the TacStar 870 Side Saddle presents both advantages and disadvantages. A balanced perspective is crucial before committing to a purchase.
Advantages:
- Increased Ammunition Capacity: The most significant benefit is the immediate increase in readily accessible shells, improving your readiness in any situation.
- Easy Access: Shells are quickly and easily accessible for rapid reloading, crucial in fast-paced scenarios.
- Cost-Effective: It provides substantial added functionality at a relatively affordable price point.
- Simple Installation: The installation process is generally quick and straightforward, even for users with limited mechanical experience.
- Durable Construction: The polymer construction stands up to regular use and accidental drops.
Disadvantages:
- Potential for Interference: Depending on the specific configuration, the side saddle might interfere with the use of optics or other accessories mounted on the receiver.
- Limited Compatibility: While primarily designed for Remington 870s, compatibility with other shotguns might be limited or require modifications.
- Weight Addition: Adding a side saddle inevitably increases the shotgun's overall weight, potentially impacting maneuverability for some users. This added weight is a tradeoff for the increased ammunition capacity.
- Aesthetics: Some users may find the side saddle's appearance less appealing than other options. This is entirely subjective.
TacStar 870 Side Saddle: Real-World Performance and User Feedback
Extensive user reviews generally speak positively about the TacStar 870 Side Saddle's functionality and reliability. Many appreciate its ease of use, affordability, and capacity boost. However, some users note instances of shells occasionally sticking or being difficult to extract, especially in adverse weather conditions. This is an area where individual user experiences can vary.
Case Study: Home Defense Application
A common use case for the TacStar 870 Side Saddle is home defense. The extra shells provide a critical advantage in the event of a prolonged confrontation. The quick access to extra rounds is essential in high-stress scenarios, ensuring that the user can effectively defend themselves and their family. The added capacity negates the need for frequently reaching for additional ammunition during a critical event.
Conclusion: Is the TacStar 870 Side Saddle Right for You?
The TacStar 870 Side Saddle offers a practical and affordable solution for increasing your Remington 870's ammunition capacity. Its ease of use and generally robust construction make it a compelling option for many shotgun users. However, potential users should carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages in the context of their specific needs and intended use. If you're looking for a reliable and inexpensive way to increase your readily accessible ammunition, the TacStar 870 Side Saddle is worth considering. But remember to always check compatibility before purchasing and factor in potential drawbacks such as weight increase and possible interference with other accessories.