The TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″ Made a Bold First Impression
Cleaning firearms is a necessary evil. It’s often tedious, messy, and requires a dedicated space to prevent damage to furniture or surfaces. The TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″ aims to solve this problem with its dedicated, protective surface. The mat features a design honoring Prisoners of War and Missing in Action. It piqued my interest because of its compact size, patriotic theme, and promise of a mess-free cleaning experience.
My old cleaning setup involved using cardboard boxes and old rags, which was far from ideal. These methods were messy and provided inadequate protection. I needed a dedicated cleaning surface that was easy to store and clean. I wanted something that would protect my workbench and keep small parts organized.
Upon unboxing, the TekMat felt surprisingly substantial for its size. The neoprene rubber backing provided a good grip on the workbench. The printed top surface was smooth and appeared durable. The image of the POW MIA flag and the powerful silhouette immediately caught my eye.
I considered larger mats from TekMat and Hoppes, but their size seemed unnecessary for handgun cleaning. I also looked at some generic rubber mats, but they lacked the dedicated purpose and patriotic design of the TekMat. The TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″ struck the right balance of size, functionality, and aesthetics.
My initial reaction was positive. I was excited to try it out and see if it lived up to its promise of a cleaner, more organized cleaning experience. The TekMat offered a welcome change from my previous makeshift cleaning setup. It appeared to be a practical and visually appealing solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″ to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the TekMat on my workbench while cleaning a Sig Sauer P320 after a range day. The workbench is usually covered in oil stains and scratches. The TekMat immediately provided a clean and protected workspace. The pistol parts were easy to see against the black background.
The TekMat performed admirably in the moderately dusty environment of my garage. Gun oil and solvent easily wiped off the surface. The small size was perfect for a single handgun cleaning. There were no issues after the first use.
The TekMat required no learning curve. It was simply a matter of placing it on the workbench and starting the cleaning process. The material provided a stable surface that prevented small parts from rolling around. The size of the mat was also manageable for easy storage.
After my first use, I was impressed with how well the TekMat contained the mess and protected my workbench. I was confident that it would become a staple in my gun cleaning routine.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the TekMat has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it to clean various handguns, including 9mm, .45 ACP, and .22LR pistols. It continues to provide a clean and organized workspace. The printing has remained intact and vibrant.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The material has not cracked or torn. The surface still wipes clean easily with a damp cloth. The TekMat has proven to be a durable and reliable cleaning mat.
Maintenance is simple: I wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. For tougher stains, I use a mild detergent. The TekMat is easy to clean and maintain, which is a major plus. It requires minimal effort to keep it in good condition.
Compared to my previous cleaning methods, the TekMat is a significant upgrade. It is more effective, more convenient, and more aesthetically pleasing. It has exceeded my expectations and has become an indispensable part of my gun cleaning setup.
Breaking Down the Features of TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″
Specifications
The TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″ is specifically designed for firearm cleaning. It measures 11 inches by 17 inches. The mat is approximately 1/8 inch thick.
The mat is constructed with a thermoplastic fiber top surface. It also features a non-slip neoprene rubber backing. The mat also features a detailed printed image of the POW MIA flag and related imagery. These specifications make it suitable for protecting surfaces during firearm maintenance.
These specifications are important because they provide a dedicated cleaning surface. The thermoplastic fiber offers a solvent and oil resistant area. The neoprene backing ensures it stays in place. The size allows for handgun disassembly without overwhelming the workspace.
Performance & Functionality
The TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″ performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a protective barrier between the firearm and the workbench. It also contains spills and prevents small parts from getting lost. It enhances the overall cleaning experience.
Its strengths include its compact size, durable construction, and ease of cleaning. A potential weakness is that the size might be too small for larger firearms like rifles or shotguns. However, for handgun cleaning, it is perfectly adequate. It has met and exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The TekMat features a simple yet functional design. The black background makes it easy to see small parts. The POW MIA design is a meaningful touch. The mat is lightweight and easy to store.
The TekMat is extremely user-friendly. There is no learning curve. It is simply a matter of placing it on the workbench and starting the cleaning process. Its simple design makes it immediately functional.
Durability & Maintenance
The TekMat is designed to last. The neoprene rubber backing and the thermoplastic fiber surface are durable. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the TekMat is straightforward. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. For tougher stains, use a mild detergent. The mat is easy to clean and requires minimal effort.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″ does not come with any accessories. It is a standalone product. There are no customization options available.
The TekMat is compatible with all standard gun cleaning solvents and oils. It is also compatible with a wide range of gun cleaning tools and supplies. The design is such that no specific accessories are required for use.
Pros and Cons of TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″
Pros
- Provides a dedicated and protected cleaning surface.
- Durable construction and easy to clean.
- Compact size for easy storage.
- Meaningful POW MIA design.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Size may be too small for larger firearms.
- No included accessories.
Who Should Buy TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″?
The TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″ is perfect for handgun owners, shooting enthusiasts, and anyone who regularly cleans firearms. It is especially useful for those with limited workspace or who want to protect their workbench. It is also a great choice for those who appreciate the patriotic POW MIA design.
This product is not ideal for individuals who primarily clean long guns like rifles or shotguns. They would benefit more from a larger cleaning mat. Also, individuals who prefer a cleaning surface with built-in parts trays might find this mat too basic.
A must-have accessory is a quality gun cleaning solvent. Additionally, a set of gun cleaning brushes and picks will complement the TekMat. These items will enhance the overall cleaning experience.
Conclusion on TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″
The TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″ is a practical and affordable solution for handgun cleaning. It provides a dedicated, protective surface that is easy to clean and store. The patriotic POW MIA design adds a meaningful touch.
The price of $8.99 is definitely justified. It offers excellent value for the money, considering its durability and functionality. It is a small investment that can save your workbench from damage and make cleaning a more organized and enjoyable experience.
I would personally recommend the TekMat Original Cleaning Mat POW MIA 11″ x 17″ to anyone who cleans handguns. It is a simple yet effective tool that makes a noticeable difference. Add this to your cleaning kit today and experience a cleaner, more organized gun maintenance routine!