Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in S&W M&P Cut Away Bench Mats Review

Let’s Dive into Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in S&W M&P Cut Away Bench Mats

For any gun owner, maintaining your firearm is paramount. Not just for performance, but for safety as well. The Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in S&W M&P Cut Away Bench Mats offers a dedicated space for cleaning and maintenance, emblazoned with a cut-away diagram of the iconic S&W M&P pistol. TekMat promises a protective surface and a helpful visual aid all in one package, and I was keen to see if it lived up to expectations.

I’ve been a firearms enthusiast for over a decade, and cleaning my firearms has always been a necessary, but sometimes messy, chore. I needed a dedicated, non-slip surface that would protect my workbench and provide some organization during the cleaning process. I was tired of using old rags and newspapers that would quickly become saturated with solvents and oils.

Upon unboxing the Tekmat, my initial impression was positive. The mat felt durable and the printing was clear and detailed. The size seemed perfect for working on a handgun, offering enough space without being unwieldy.

I considered other mats, including a generic rubber mat and a larger, more expensive gun cleaning station. However, the Tekmat stood out because of its specific S&W M&P cut-away design and its compact size, perfect for my needs and workbench space. I was initially excited about the organizational aspect of the printed diagram and the overall quality feel.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in S&W M&P Cut Away Bench Mats to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test involved a thorough cleaning of my S&W M&P 9mm after a range day. I used the mat on my workbench in the garage, which tends to get dusty and dirty. The mat immediately provided a clean, dedicated space for disassembling the firearm.

The Tekmat performed admirably, catching all the solvent drips and preventing them from reaching the workbench surface. The non-slip backing kept the mat firmly in place, even when I was applying pressure to remove stubborn components. I found the cut-away diagram helpful for referencing the names and locations of various parts.

There were no significant issues during the first use, although I did notice that the edges of the mat curled up slightly. I also realized the surface, while solvent resistant, could still stain if harsh chemicals were left on it for an extended period.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Tekmat has become an indispensable part of my gun cleaning routine. It still provides excellent protection for my workbench, and the diagram continues to be a useful reference, especially when working with less familiar firearms. The curling edges have flattened out over time.

The mat has proven to be reasonably durable, showing only minor signs of wear and tear despite regular use and exposure to solvents. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth usually does the trick. I found that using a dedicated gun cleaning solvent on a rag also worked well for stubborn stains.

Compared to my previous makeshift cleaning setups, the Tekmat is a significant improvement. It provides a much more organized and cleaner workspace, making the entire cleaning process more enjoyable and efficient. It definitely outperforms my expectations for a product in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in S&W M&P Cut Away Bench Mats

Specifications

The Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in S&W M&P Cut Away Bench Mats boasts the following specifications:

• Manufacturer: TekMat.
• Color: Multi.
• Fabric/Material: Cloth Topped Neoprene.
• Gun Type: Handgun.
• Length: 17 inches.
• Design: Smith & Wesson M&P.
• Dimensions: 11 x 17 inches.
• Width: 11 inches.
• Thickness: 0.25 inches.
• Additional Features: Armorers Bench Mat.

These specifications translate to a mat that is large enough to accommodate most handguns and their components while disassembled. The neoprene construction provides a soft, protective surface for the firearm, and the rubber backing prevents slippage. The S&W M&P cut-away design is a bonus for owners of that particular firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The Tekmat excels at its primary function: protecting your work surface from scratches, solvents, and oils. The soft, cloth-topped neoprene is gentle on firearm finishes, preventing damage during disassembly and cleaning. The vulcanized rubber backing keeps the mat firmly in place, even on slick surfaces.

The print quality is excellent and the diagram is clear and easy to read. I found it particularly useful for identifying small parts and understanding the inner workings of the S&W M&P pistol. However, if you don’t own an M&P, the diagram’s usefulness is significantly reduced.

The mat’s weakness lies in its relatively small size. While adequate for most handgun cleaning tasks, it may be too small for larger firearms or more complex projects. Also, the edges tend to curl slightly, which can be annoying. It meets my expectations for a basic cleaning mat but doesn’t exceed them in terms of overall size or advanced features.

Design & Ergonomics

The Tekmat features a simple, functional design. The S&W M&P cut-away diagram adds a touch of visual appeal and serves as a practical reference tool. The mat is lightweight and easy to roll up for storage.

The build quality is decent for the price. The neoprene material feels durable, and the printing is well-executed. The mat is comfortable to work on, providing a soft, cushioned surface. There is no learning curve; it’s a straightforward product to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Tekmat is reasonably durable for its intended purpose. It is resistant to most common gun cleaning solvents and oils, and the neoprene material is unlikely to tear or fray under normal use. However, excessive exposure to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners could damage the mat.

Maintenance is simple: wipe down the surface with a damp cloth after each use. For stubborn stains, use a dedicated gun cleaning solvent. With proper care, the Tekmat should last for several years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in S&W M&P Cut Away Bench Mats does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available, other than choosing a different model with a different firearm diagram.

While the mat is not designed to be customized, it is compatible with a wide range of gun cleaning supplies and accessories from other brands, such as cleaning brushes, solvents, and lubricants. A larger Tekmat may be a good complementary purchase if you often work on larger firearms.

Pros and Cons of Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in S&W M&P Cut Away Bench Mats

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Who Should Buy Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in S&W M&P Cut Away Bench Mats?

This Tekmat is perfect for S&W M&P owners who want a dedicated, affordable cleaning mat. It is also suitable for anyone who needs a small, portable work surface for basic firearm maintenance.

Those who work on larger firearms or need a more versatile cleaning station should skip this product. Gunsmiths or individuals who perform extensive firearm modifications may want to invest in a larger, more durable mat with additional features. A good must-have accessory is a quality set of gun cleaning brushes and solvents.

Conclusion on Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in S&W M&P Cut Away Bench Mats

The Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in S&W M&P Cut Away Bench Mats is a solid, affordable option for S&W M&P owners seeking a dedicated cleaning surface. Its primary function of protecting your work area is very reliable. The S&W M&P diagram is a nice touch.

At $14.99, the price is definitely justified, offering excellent value for the money.

I would personally recommend this Tekmat to anyone who owns an S&W M&P and is looking for an inexpensive and effective way to protect their workbench during cleaning and maintenance. Invest in a Tekmat and start keeping your workspace clean and organized while you keep your firearm in top condition!