If you are new to game or clay shooting, you will quickly notice that experienced shooters rarely carry cartridges loose in their pockets. Instead, they use a cartridge bag. In this guide we explain what a cartridge bag is, how it differs from a cartridge belt or shell pouch, and how to choose the right one.
What Is a Cartridge Bag?
A cartridge bag is a shoulder bag designed to carry shotgun cartridges in the field. It has a wide opening, usually with a flap or a rigid mouth, so you can reach in and reload quickly without looking down. Traditional cartridge bags are made from leather or a combination of leather and waxed canvas, and are a familiar sight on driven shoots, rough shoots and clay grounds.
Most cartridge bags hold enough cartridges for a drive or a round of clays, so you can keep a larger supply in the vehicle and refill between stands.
Cartridge Bag vs Cartridge Belt vs Shell Pouch
| Cartridge bag | Cartridge belt | Shell pouch | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | High | Low to medium | Low |
| How it is carried | Over the shoulder | Around the waist | On a belt or in the hand |
| Reloading speed | Fast | Very fast | Fast |
| Best for | Driven shoots, clay rounds | Walked-up shooting, pigeon decoying | Clay stands, short sessions |
Many shooters use more than one: a bag for the day's supply and a cartridge belt or shell pouch for quick access at the peg.
How to Choose a Cartridge Bag
Material
Full grain leather is the classic choice. It is tough, weather resistant when conditioned, and develops a rich patina over years of use. Waxed canvas with leather trim is lighter and also very durable.
Opening
A rigid or wide mouth lets you reload by feel. A flap closure keeps cartridges dry and secure when you are walking between drives.
Strap
A wide, adjustable shoulder strap makes a full bag far more comfortable to carry, especially on long days.
Capacity
Think about how many cartridges you normally use per drive or round and choose a bag that comfortably holds that amount.
Personalisation
Initials embossed on the flap make a cartridge bag easy to identify on a busy shoot day, and turn it into a lasting gift. Our Personalised Leather Cartridge Bag is a favourite for exactly that reason.
Our Cartridge Bags and Belts
- Personalised Leather Cartridge Bag for Shooters
- Genuine Brown Leather Cartridge Bag
- Cartridge Leather Shotgun Shell Belt
- Canvas Shotgun Shell Pouch
Browse the full range in our Cartridge Bags & Belts collection.
Complete Your Shooting Kit
Protect your gun in transit with a leather rifle or shotgun case. If you are choosing one, read our guide to choosing the right leather rifle case. You will also find hip flask cases, horns and more in our hunting accessories.
Caring for a Leather Cartridge Bag
- Empty the bag after each shoot and brush out dirt and grit
- Let it dry naturally if it gets wet, away from direct heat
- Condition the leather regularly to keep it supple and water resistant
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cartridge bag used for?
It carries shotgun cartridges in the field so you can reload quickly without searching your pockets.
Is a cartridge bag better than a cartridge belt?
A bag carries more cartridges. A belt is faster for walked-up shooting. Many shooters use both.
Can I use a cartridge bag for clay shooting?
Yes. Cartridge bags are widely used on clay grounds as well as game shoots.
Can a leather cartridge bag be personalised?
Yes. Our personalised cartridge bag can carry your initials. Contact us with any special requests.
Does a cartridge bag make a good gift?
It is one of the most popular gifts for shooters. See more in our leather gift guide for him.
Orders to the UK, US, Canada and Europe ship free with tracked, duty-paid delivery.
