Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 Review

First Thoughts on the Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12

The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 promises a dedicated workspace for firearm maintenance, blending practicality with a touch of Midwest Industries pride. As someone who’s spent years elbow-deep in gun oil, meticulously cleaning and tweaking everything from AR platforms to vintage lever actions, I’m always on the lookout for gear that streamlines the process and protects my workbench. This mat, with its generous size and durable construction, immediately piqued my interest.

I was seeking a reliable, solvent-resistant surface to replace my aging, stained workbench towel. My current setup offered minimal protection and lacked any real organization, making even simple tasks feel cumbersome. The Midwest Industries mat’s non-slip base and padded surface seemed like the perfect solution to my workspace woes.

Upon unrolling the mat, the first thing I noticed was the quality of the print. The lever action design is crisp and clean, a subtle nod to classic firearms without being overly flashy. The vulcanized rubber felt substantial and durable, giving me confidence that it could withstand years of use.

While I considered other gun mats on the market, like the TekMat series and some offerings from Real Avid, I was drawn to Midwest Industries’ reputation for quality and their commitment to American-made products. Ultimately, the combination of size, material, and the appealing design of the Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 swayed my decision. My initial impression was positive; I was eager to put it to work and see if it lived up to expectations.

Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 was at my home workbench, where I was disassembling and cleaning a Marlin 336 lever-action rifle. The mat provided ample space for all the components, preventing small parts from rolling off the edge. The padded surface was a welcome change from the hard wood of my workbench, offering a softer landing spot for delicate gun parts.

I intentionally spilled some CLP gun oil on the mat to test its resistance. True to the product description, the oil beaded up and wiped away easily with a clean rag, leaving no stain or residue. I also noticed that the mat stayed firmly in place, thanks to the textured rubber base, even when I was applying significant pressure while removing a stubborn bolt.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of using the Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 for various firearm maintenance tasks, including cleaning AR-15s, working on handguns, and even some light gunsmithing, it has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or tear, even in high-use areas. The dye sublimation printing remains vibrant and unfaded.

Cleaning the mat is a breeze. A quick rinse with warm water and mild dish soap is all it takes to remove any accumulated grime or solvent residue. It dries quickly and is ready to use again in no time. Compared to my previous setup, which involved constantly replacing stained rags and towels, the Midwest Industries mat has been a significant upgrade. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, ease of cleaning, and overall performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12

Specifications

The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 boasts a generous 36″ x 12″ work area, providing ample space for firearm disassembly and maintenance. Constructed from 1/8″ vulcanized rubber, the mat offers a durable and solvent-resistant surface. The soft heat-bonded polyester top protects firearms from scratches, while the non-slip textured rubber base prevents movement on the workbench.

The dye sublimation printing ensures the design won’t wear or rub off, even with frequent use. This mat is proudly designed and printed in the USA. It also comes with a Midwest Industries lifetime warranty.

Performance & Functionality

The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 excels at providing a stable, protected, and organized workspace for firearm maintenance. Its large size accommodates even the most complex firearm platforms, like AR-10s and larger lever-action rifles. The solvent and oil resistance is a significant advantage, preventing damage to the workbench and simplifying cleanup.

The mat’s strengths lie in its durable construction and functional design. One minor weakness is the thickness; while adequate, a slightly thicker mat could offer even more padding for sensitive components. Overall, the mat meets and exceeds expectations for a dedicated gun cleaning and maintenance surface.

Design & Ergonomics

The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 features a well-thought-out design. The lever action print is tastefully executed, adding a touch of personality to the workbench without being distracting. The rectangular shape fits neatly on most work surfaces, maximizing usable space.

The mat’s weight is substantial enough to keep it firmly in place, but not so heavy as to be cumbersome to move. There is virtually no learning curve; simply unroll the mat and it’s ready to use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its vulcanized rubber construction and dye sublimation printing, the Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 is built to last. The mat’s resistance to solvents and oils further enhances its longevity, preventing degradation from harsh chemicals. Routine cleaning is simple and straightforward, ensuring that the mat remains in good condition for years to come.

The Midwest Industries lifetime warranty provides additional peace of mind, reinforcing the manufacturer’s commitment to quality.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 does not come with any additional accessories, nor does it require any customization. Its purpose is purely functional, providing a dedicated workspace for firearm maintenance. The mat is compatible with all types of firearms and cleaning supplies, regardless of brand.

Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12

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Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12?

The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 is perfect for firearm owners who regularly clean and maintain their firearms. It’s especially useful for those who work on their guns at home and want to protect their work surfaces. Gun enthusiasts, hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who values a clean and organized workspace will benefit from this mat.

Those who primarily rely on professional gunsmiths for maintenance or who only occasionally clean their firearms may not find this mat necessary. No must-have accessories are needed, but a good set of cleaning supplies and a well-lit workspace will complement the mat nicely.

Conclusion on Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12

The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 is a well-designed, durable, and functional addition to any firearm owner’s workspace. At a price of $29.49, it offers excellent value for its quality and performance. The solvent resistance, ample size, and non-slip base make it a significant improvement over makeshift cleaning setups.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this mat to anyone looking for a dedicated and reliable surface for firearm maintenance. The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 is a worthwhile investment that will protect your firearms, your workbench, and your sanity. Upgrade your gun cleaning experience today and experience the difference!

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