First Thoughts on the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen my fair share of cleaning and maintenance mats. When I first laid eyes on the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″, I was immediately drawn to its clean design and the reputation of Midwest Industries for quality products. The promise of a durable, solvent-resistant workspace that showcases my appreciation for a reputable brand like Midwest Industries was hard to resist.
My primary need was a portable and durable surface to perform maintenance on my firearms at the range and at home. My old towel setup just wasn’t cutting it anymore. It absorbed solvents and oils, provided little padding, and offered no protection for my work surfaces.
Upon unboxing, the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ felt substantial. The vulcanized rubber base provided a reassuring weight, while the polyester top felt smooth and protective. The image quality of the Alpha Series logo was crisp and vibrant, showcasing Midwest Industries‘ commitment to detail.
Compared to other mats I considered, such as the TekMat or the Real Avid Master Gun Cleaning Mat, the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ stood out due to its aesthetic appeal and lifetime warranty. While the TekMat offered exploded diagrams of various firearms, I preferred the clean, minimalist design of the Midwest Industries mat. I found its dimensions to be more suited to my needs than the smaller mats available from other brands.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to finally have a dedicated, high-quality gun mat that not only protects my firearms and work surfaces but also looks great doing it.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ took place at my local outdoor shooting range. I was performing a thorough cleaning and lubrication of my AR-15 after a particularly dusty day on the range. The mat provided ample space for all my components.
The mat performed flawlessly even in the somewhat gritty conditions of the range’s maintenance bench. The non-slip rubber base kept the mat securely in place, preventing any unwanted movement while I was working. I did notice that any oil spilled on the mat beaded up nicely, making cleanup simple.
Using the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ proved easy. I laid out my parts, applied solvents, and cleaned everything without any issues. I was able to keep everything organized. The padding protected both my rifle and the tabletop.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ has held up remarkably well. Despite being exposed to various solvents and oils, the image has shown no signs of fading or peeling. It continues to look as good as new.
The mat has proven to be surprisingly durable. Despite being rolled up and transported frequently, there are no creases or tears in the rubber or polyester layers. Even with regular use, I haven’t noticed any signs of wear and tear.
Maintenance is straightforward: I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap as needed. So far, no stains have set in. The oil-resistant properties prevent any long-term damage.
In comparison to my previous reliance on towels and makeshift surfaces, the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ has significantly improved my cleaning and maintenance process. It offers superior protection, organization, and ease of use. It has truly exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ boasts a spacious 36″x12″ padded work area. It’s constructed from 1/8″ vulcanized rubber, offering a durable, non-slip base. The mat features a soft, heat-bonded polyester top to protect firearms from scratches.
The design incorporates dye sublimation printing to ensure the image won’t wear or rub off. The mat is solvent and oil resistant. Midwest Industries backs this mat with a lifetime warranty.
These specifications are crucial for creating a reliable and long-lasting workspace. The size provides ample room to maneuver, while the rubber base ensures stability. The polyester surface prevents damage to delicate firearm finishes.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ excels at providing a safe and organized surface for firearm maintenance. Its large size accommodates most firearms and components. The padded surface prevents scratches and damage during disassembly and cleaning.
Its strengths lie in its durability, oil resistance, and non-slip base. A potential improvement would be a slightly thicker padding for even greater protection. The mat more than meets my expectations, offering a superior alternative to traditional cleaning methods.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ features a clean and professional design. The vulcanized rubber provides a solid, weighty feel. The polyester top offers a smooth, comfortable surface to work on.
The mat is user-friendly with no learning curve involved. Simply unroll it and begin your maintenance tasks. The design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ is built to last. The high-quality materials and construction suggest it will withstand years of use. The manufacturer’s lifetime warranty further underscores its durability.
The mat is very easy to maintain and clean. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. More stubborn oil or solvent residue can be removed with mild dish soap.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ does not come with any additional accessories. It is a standalone product designed to provide a dedicated workspace. There are no customization options available for the mat itself.
However, the mat is compatible with any cleaning tools, solvents, and lubricants that gun owners typically use. It provides a stable and protective surface for using these products effectively. There are no limitations on compatible products from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″
Pros
- Spacious 36″x12″ work area provides ample room for disassembling and cleaning firearms.
- The non-slip textured rubber base keeps the mat firmly in place, even on slick surfaces.
- The solvent and oil-resistant construction ensures durability and easy cleanup.
- The soft, heat-bonded polyester surface protects firearms from scratches during maintenance.
- Midwest Industries’ lifetime warranty provides peace of mind and guarantees the product’s quality.
Cons
- The padding could be slightly thicker for added protection, though it is sufficient as is.
- Leaving the mat in direct sunlight for extended periods may cause the image to fade.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″?
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ is perfect for gun owners who regularly clean and maintain their firearms. It’s also excellent for hobbyists who assemble or customize their own guns. Anyone who values a clean, organized, and protected workspace will appreciate this mat.
Those who only occasionally clean their firearms or who are extremely budget-conscious might find this mat unnecessary. A simple towel may suffice for infrequent maintenance.
A must-have accessory for this mat is a good set of gun cleaning tools and solvents. Consider also a small parts tray to keep screws and pins organized during disassembly.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ is a high-quality and well-designed product that offers excellent value for the money. It provides a dedicated, protected workspace for firearm maintenance. The durability, oil resistance, and lifetime warranty make it a worthwhile investment.
The price of $32.99 is justified by the mat’s superior construction and functionality. It’s a significant upgrade from using makeshift surfaces like towels. It also offers great value for the money when compared to more expensive and arguably less aesthetically pleasing options on the market.
I would absolutely recommend the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ to any gun owner looking to improve their cleaning and maintenance process. Invest in the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ today and experience a cleaner, more organized, and more enjoyable gun maintenance experience!