First Thoughts on the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long
Every seasoned gun owner knows the importance of maintaining their firearms. And I’ve disassembled and cleaned countless firearms over the past decade. A dedicated cleaning mat isn’t just a luxury; it’s an essential tool for protecting both your firearm and your workspace. The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long promises a protective, organized surface for this task. It’s from TekMat, a company with a solid reputation in the firearms accessory market.
I stumbled upon this mat when looking for a compact, easy-to-store solution for cleaning handguns at my reloading bench. I needed something that wouldn’t slide around and would protect my bench from solvents and oils. I had been using old rags, which proved unsatisfactory. They would bunch up, soak through, and ultimately didn’t provide any real organization for small parts.
Upon unboxing, the TekMat felt durable and well-made. The rubber base felt grippy. The soft, oil-resistant surface seemed perfect for protecting delicate finishes. Its compact size was exactly what I needed for handgun maintenance.
Compared to larger, more elaborate cleaning mats with exploded diagrams, the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long stood out for its simplicity and portability. While larger mats offer more real estate and visual aids, they also take up more storage space. I chose this TekMat because it offered a balance of protection and convenience. My first impression was positive. I was excited to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long during a post-range cleaning session of my Glock 19. I set it up on my workbench, which is usually covered in a protective sheet of cardboard. I was immediately impressed by the mat’s grip. It stayed firmly in place, even as I moved the handgun and cleaning tools around.
The oil-resistant surface proved effective. Any spilled solvent or oil beaded up and wiped away easily. The small size was perfect for the Glock 19. It provided just enough space for the disassembled parts without taking up excessive room.
No issues arose during the first cleaning. The mat performed exactly as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long has held up admirably. It shows no signs of wear and tear. Even after being exposed to various solvents and oils, the surface remains intact.
Cleaning the mat is incredibly simple. I wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. I occasionally use a mild soap solution for tougher residues. The mat dries quickly. It’s ready to be stored away without any fuss.
Compared to my previous experience with makeshift cleaning surfaces, the TekMat is a significant upgrade. It protects my workspace, organizes my parts, and simplifies the cleaning process. It has exceeded my expectations for a basic cleaning mat.
Breaking Down the Features of TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long
Specifications
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long offers several key specifications. It measures 17 inches in length. The mat features a 1/8″ thick padded rubber base. It has an ultra-soft, oil and water-resistant surface. The product aims to protect firearms from scratches during cleaning and disassembly.
These specifications are crucial for a functional cleaning mat. The length provides adequate space for most handguns. The rubber base prevents slippage, ensuring stability. The padded surface cushions the firearm. This minimizes the risk of damage. The oil and water-resistant surface protects against chemical spills and makes cleanup easy.
Performance & Functionality
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long performs its primary function exceptionally well. It provides a secure and protective surface for cleaning firearms. Its size is ideal for handguns.
The mat’s key strengths are its non-slip base and oil-resistant surface. The size might be a weakness for larger firearms like rifles. It meets expectations as a reliable and affordable cleaning solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long features a simple, functional design. The materials feel durable and high-quality. The mat is lightweight and easy to handle.
The design is user-friendly. No learning curve is involved. Simply unroll the mat and start cleaning.
Durability & Maintenance
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long appears to be built to last. The rubber base and oil-resistant surface are durable and resistant to wear. With proper care, the mat should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down after each use is typically sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long does not come with any additional accessories. It is a standalone cleaning mat. There are no customization options available.
The mat is designed to be universally compatible with most cleaning tools and solvents. It doesn’t require any specific accessories to function properly.
Pros and Cons of TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long
Pros
- Affordable Price: At just $8.49, the TekMat is an extremely budget-friendly option for protecting your firearms and workspace.
Cons
- Size Limitation: The 17″ length may be too small for cleaning larger firearms like rifles.
Non-Slip Rubber Base: The rubber base provides excellent grip, preventing the mat from sliding around on your workbench.
Oil and Water-Resistant Surface: The surface effectively repels solvents and oils, making cleanup quick and easy.
Compact and Portable: The 17″ length is ideal for handguns. It is also easy to store and transport.
Protective Padding: The 1/8″ padding offers a layer of protection against scratches and minor impacts.
Lack of Features: It lacks features found in more expensive mats, such as exploded diagrams or built-in parts trays.
Who Should Buy TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long?
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long is perfect for:
- Handgun owners looking for an affordable and effective cleaning solution.
- Anyone with limited workspace who needs a compact cleaning mat.
- Shooters who prioritize portability and easy storage.
Who should skip this product?
- Rifle owners who require a larger cleaning surface.
- Individuals seeking a mat with detailed firearm schematics.
A must-have accessory for this product is a quality set of cleaning brushes and solvents. These will complement the mat and ensure a thorough cleaning process.
Conclusion on TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for cleaning handguns. Its non-slip base, oil-resistant surface, and compact size make it a valuable addition to any gun owner’s toolkit.
The price of $8.49 is more than justified. It provides excellent value for the level of protection and convenience it offers.
I would absolutely recommend the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long to anyone looking for a reliable and budget-friendly cleaning mat. It’s a small investment that can save you time, effort, and potential damage to your firearms. Get yours today and make firearm maintenance a breeze!