Let’s Talk About Black Line Layout Mat
The Black Line Layout Mat promises to be a versatile and practical addition to any shooter’s gear. Designed by Black Line, this mat aims to provide a comfortable and organized shooting platform at an affordable price. It boasts features like 600D polyester construction, padded knee support, and accessory pouches, making it seem like an ideal solution for range days or outdoor shooting scenarios.
I was in the market for a reliable and portable shooting mat to improve my comfort and organization at the range. Tired of lying on the bare ground or struggling with inadequate makeshift setups, I sought a dedicated solution. The listed features and price point of the Black Line Layout Mat immediately caught my attention.
Unboxing the mat, my initial impression was positive. The material felt durable, and the roll-up design seemed convenient for transport. The stitching appeared solid, suggesting decent build quality.
Compared to other shooting mats I’ve considered, like the more expensive Armageddon Gear mats or the simpler, unpadded mats from generic brands, the Black Line Layout Mat seemed to strike a good balance between features and cost. I chose it because I wanted more than just a ground cover, but I wasn’t ready to invest in a top-tier, high-priced option. My hope was that this mat would provide adequate padding, organization, and weather resistance without breaking the bank.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to test it out and see if it lived up to its promises of comfort, convenience, and durability. Hopefully this review will make your decision easier.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Line Layout Mat to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Black Line Layout Mat at my local outdoor shooting range. The range has uneven gravel and can be quite uncomfortable to shoot prone on. The weather was dry and sunny, around 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
The mat provided a noticeable improvement in comfort compared to lying directly on the gravel. It was easy to unroll and set up, and the accessory pouches were handy for storing magazines and small tools. The bipod secure strips seemed like a good idea, but I did not get to use them on this trip.
Initially, I didn’t notice any significant issues. The padding was adequate for the first hour or so, but I began to feel the uneven ground through the mat after prolonged use. I will test this further later in this review.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Black Line Layout Mat has held up reasonably well. I’ve used it in various conditions, including a slightly muddy field and a dusty desert environment.
The 600D polyester has shown some minor wear and tear, particularly along the edges, but no major rips or tears yet. The mat is relatively easy to clean. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use.
Compared to my previous experiences with other, less specialized mats, the Black Line Layout Mat offers a significant upgrade in terms of comfort and organization. However, the padding could be thicker for extended use on very hard surfaces. This becomes more noticable with heavier caliber rifles.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Line Layout Mat
Specifications
The Black Line Layout Mat features a 600D polyester fabric construction with a weatherproof vinyl coating, aiming for durability and weather resistance. It has a compact, roll-up design for easy transport and storage.
The mat includes dual side accessory pouches for organizing gear and three bipod secure strips. The mat is padded with 1/4″ closed cell foam, and an adjustable 1/2″ thick knee-padded section is also included.
The dimensions of the mat when fully deployed are 80 x 29 inches, including the fold-out flaps. The zippered knee section allows for additional padding to be added. These specifications matter because they dictate the mat’s portability, comfort, and ability to withstand different shooting environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Line Layout Mat performs its primary job of providing a comfortable and organized shooting surface adequately. The padding offers some cushioning, but it could be thicker. The accessory pouches are convenient for keeping essential items within reach.
A notable strength is its portability, thanks to the roll-up design and relatively light weight. A weakness is the limited padding, especially for those who spend extended periods prone on hard surfaces. I feel that the mat could do better with the padding in this area.
The mat largely meets expectations for its price point, offering a decent balance of features and performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable, with sturdy stitching and durable-feeling materials. However, the 1/4″ foam padding is relatively thin. The mat weighs 2.2lbs, making it easy to carry.
The design is user-friendly, with a simple roll-up mechanism and accessible accessory pouches. There is no significant learning curve. I just rolled it out and began to use it.
Durability & Maintenance
The 600D polyester material seems reasonably durable, but long-term wear and tear remain to be seen. So far, the mat has withstood several range trips and outdoor sessions without major damage.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Any repairs should be simple as long as you have thread and a needle.
Accessories and Customization Options
The mat comes with dual side accessory pouches and three bipod secure strips. The zippered knee section allows for adding more padding.
There are no other significant customization options or accessories, and it’s not really designed for any. The compatibility with other accessories is limited, as it’s primarily a standalone product.
Pros and Cons of Black Line Layout Mat
Pros
- Provides a comfortable and organized shooting surface compared to bare ground.
- Lightweight and portable thanks to its roll-up design.
- Convenient accessory pouches for storing magazines and small tools.
- Affordable price point offers good value for the features provided.
- Durable 600D polyester construction.
Cons
- Padding could be thicker, especially for extended use on hard surfaces.
- Limited customization options.
- Bipod securing strips might not fit all bipod types.
Who Should Buy Black Line Layout Mat?
The Black Line Layout Mat is perfect for casual shooters and range enthusiasts who want a portable and affordable shooting platform. It’s also suitable for hunters who need a lightweight mat for prone shooting in the field.
This product is not ideal for competitive shooters or those who require maximum padding and durability. Those individuals are better off investing in higher-end mats. Those shooting larger calibers may also want more padding in the mat.
A must-have accessory would be additional foam padding for the knee section to increase comfort during extended use. A small cleaning kit would also be beneficial to keep the mat in good condition.
Conclusion on Black Line Layout Mat
The Black Line Layout Mat is a decent shooting accessory that offers a good balance of features, portability, and affordability. While the padding could be thicker, it provides a significant improvement over shooting directly on the ground. The accessory pouches and roll-up design add to its convenience.
The price is justified for what you get, making it a worthwhile investment for casual shooters and hunters on a budget. The retail price is $61.99, this mat represents solid value for the price point.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a basic but functional shooting mat that won’t break the bank. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution to enhance your shooting experience without sacrificing portability or convenience, the Black Line Layout Mat is worth considering. Roll it up, sling it over your shoulder, and head to the range – you’ll be glad you did!