Seven of the best cartridge bags

Around the middle of last season I hastily chucked my cartridge bag, which I have owned for some 10 years, in the back of the motor with a usually very well behaved dog. The hound in question clearly took a dislike to the thing, as by the time we arrived at the next drive some five minutes later, the leather strap that holds the bag closed had been given such a chewing that it had been severed, leaving only the bit above the buckle remaining. While the bag still closes, the gnawed stump of the strap does look a bit unsightly, so I’m considering a new cartridge bag. I’ve been doing a bit of research into what’s out there, and thought I’d share my findings with you. Of course, the choices are many and varied, with issues like capacity, material, price and, importantly, fastening system to consider. Here’s a few of the ones that caught my eye for one reason or another.

The best leather shotgun cartridge bags

Deluxe JP Northumberland Cartridge Bag - Fine Shooting Accessories - From £475.00

Now, I confess, this one is probably a leeeetle beyond my budget, but by heck it is a gorgeous looking thing - classical, timeless and super high-quality. Were I somewhat more pecunious than I am, this is the cartridge bag I would be tempted to buy. Made from a choice of artisan leathers and with a customisable strap, the Northumberland is available with a capacity of 150 or 250 cartridges, it is a real expression of timeless style. SHOP NOW

Crocodile skin cartridge bag - Fine Shooting Accessories - from £880.00

 
For something at completely the top end of the scale, how about a cartridge bag made from croc? You’ll certainly look… wait for it… snappy! [I can only apologise for those puns, I simply can’t help myself. I have a problem.]. The traditionally styled bag‘s hinged lid folds back fully when in use and the double jointed straps allow the bag to sit comfortably against your side whilst in use. The bags are also reinforced in key areas  to ensure that the bags keep their shape for years to come. They’re available in a number of colours and their stitch, binding and lining colours can be customised to meet your requirements. SHOP NOW
 

Bridle leather cartridge bags - Purdey - £845.00

 
Made with tradition and practicality in mind, this offering from Purdey is made from reinforced vegetable-tanned bridle leather and features an adjustable strap, solid brass fittings and hinge-over flap for easy access to your cartridges. The body of the bag is subtly curved, giving a neat and comfortable fit at the hip. SHOP NOW

Leather cartridge bag - Harkila - £119.99

 
I love the look of this waxed leather cartridge bag from Harkila. The finish gives it a sort of pre-worn look, so its ideal if you don’t want to look too “all-the-gear-no-idea”, while the 125 cartridge capacity is more than adequate for all but the biggest of drives. The padded shoulder strap is a nice touch. SHOP NOW

The best canvas shotgun cartridge bags

Rosedale Canvas Cartridge Bag - Croots - From £127.00

 
If you’re looking for something slightly friendlier on the wallet, but still nice and smart, this canvas cartridge bag from Croots might fit the bill. It is available in a choice of colours, loden green and fox tan, has a beautiful leather trim and a suede lining. You can choose the 75, 100 or the 150 capacity version, all of which have a hinged flap for speed of loading. For a personalised touch you can have your initials added to the panel on the flap, so you can be certain you’ve always picked up the right bag from the gunbus. SHOP NOW

Jack Pyke - Canvas Cartridge Bag - £49.95

 
This canvas cartridge bag from Jack Pyke is one of the most budget-friendly I was able to find. It holds around 100 cartridges and is available in three muted colours making it suitable for a day on the peg, but given its relatively low cost you wouldn’t worry too much about taking out on the foreshore for a duck flight either. The padded shoulder strap is a nice touch. SHOP NOW

Canvas cartridge bag - Seeland - £69.99

A cartridge bag with classic British styling that’s also affordable! The robust canvas will stand up to the rigours of the outdoor life (though rogue dogs may be a stretch), and the bag includes a solid strap and holds up to 125 12 bore cartridges. SHOP NOW