NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray Review

The NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray Made a Bold First Impression

I’ve been lugging around rifles for over a decade, from deer rifles in the Pennsylvania woods to AR-15s at dusty desert ranges. My biggest pain point has always been efficiently carrying my rifle and having a clean, protected surface to shoot from. When I saw the NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray, I was immediately intrigued by the dual functionality.

I had been using a basic, unpadded soft case and a separate roll-up shooting mat, which was cumbersome and took up valuable space in my truck. The NcStar offering promised to consolidate these into a single, convenient package, addressing a real need for streamlined efficiency in my shooting setup. The urban gray color also appealed to me; it’s practical and doesn’t scream “tactical,” which is often preferable for blending in at public ranges.

Unboxing the NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray revealed a sturdy, well-constructed piece of gear. The heavy-duty PVC material felt robust and capable of withstanding rough handling. While I initially worried about the weight, it felt manageable considering the dual-purpose design. It was heavier than my old soft case, but the added functionality of the shooting mat seemed worth the tradeoff.

I considered several other options before choosing this case. I looked at standalone shooting mats from MidwayUSA and dedicated rifle cases from Voodoo Tactical. I ultimately chose the NcStar due to its integrated design and appealing price point. The other options either lacked the combined functionality or were significantly more expensive. My first impression was positive; I was excited to see how it performed in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray was at my local outdoor range. I was sighting in a new scope on my AR-15. I used it on a slightly damp, grassy area. I quickly found the case easy to deploy as a shooting mat.

The shooting mat provided ample space and a comfortable, padded surface. The rifle case unfolded smoothly. This made setting up for my shooting session much faster and more convenient than using my old separate case and mat. However, the material did seem to attract some dirt and grass stains.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray has held up surprisingly well. The heavy-duty PVC material shows minimal signs of wear, despite being dragged across various surfaces. I’ve used it on everything from rocky desert terrain to muddy fields. The zippers are still functioning smoothly.

The padding has maintained its shape and provides adequate cushioning. I’ve noticed some slight fading of the urban gray color in areas exposed to direct sunlight. Cleaning the mat is relatively easy with a damp cloth, although some stains require a bit more effort. It’s performed better than expected for its price point. I do worry the stitching around the zippers may wear out sooner than other parts of the mat.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray

Specifications

• Main Compartment: 48″ L x 11″ H x 1″ D. This dimension is important because it dictates the maximum length of rifle it can accommodate.
• Rifle Case Unfolds into a Shooters Mat: 66″ L x 35″ W. This provides ample space for comfortable prone shooting.
• Two Zippered Internal Compartments: 9″ W x 7″ H. These compartments offer secure storage for essential accessories like magazines, ammunition, and tools.
• Clear Plastic Windowed Compartment for Ballistics Chart: 5″ W x 9″ H. This is a useful feature for quick reference to ballistics data during shooting sessions.
• Color: Urban Gray. This color provides a blend of practicality and discretion, suitable for various environments.
• Constructed from Heavy Duty PVC Material. This provides water resistance and durability.
• Heavy Duty zippers keep gear safe. This is crucial for long term usage.
• Padded panels provide comfort and protection.
• One piece cleaning rod compartment allows for convenient storage.

These specifications combine portability with functionality. This makes the NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray a versatile tool for shooters.

Performance & Functionality

The NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray performs its primary functions adequately. It securely carries rifles up to 48 inches in length and provides a reasonably comfortable shooting surface. The internal compartments are useful for storing small accessories. The ballistics chart window is a nice touch, although I wish it were slightly larger.

However, the padding on the shooting mat could be thicker for extended prone shooting sessions. The zippers, while heavy-duty, can sometimes snag. This requires a bit of extra care when opening and closing the case. It meets expectations for its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray features a straightforward and functional design. The use of heavy-duty PVC material contributes to its overall durability. The weight is manageable, although it could be lighter. The urban gray color is practical and aesthetically pleasing.

The case is relatively easy to carry with its integrated carry handles. Unfolding the shooting mat is a simple process. However, folding it back up can sometimes be a bit awkward. Overall, the design is user-friendly, but there’s room for improvement in terms of ergonomics.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the heavy-duty PVC construction, the NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray should last for several years with proper care. The material is resistant to tearing and abrasion. The zippers are robust enough to withstand regular use. The stitching appears to be well-done.

Cleaning the mat is straightforward. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. For tougher stains, a mild detergent can be used. Regular maintenance of the zippers will also help to prolong their lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray does not come with any additional accessories beyond the integrated compartments. There are no specific customization options available. However, the internal compartments can accommodate various accessories. This includes magazines, ammunition, cleaning kits, and small tools.

The case is generally compatible with most standard-sized rifles and shooting accessories. You won’t be able to add much to the case but the internal storage is useful.

Pros and Cons of NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray

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Who Should Buy NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray?

The NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray is perfect for casual shooters and weekend range warriors. It is also good for hunters who need a convenient and affordable way to carry their rifles and have a clean surface to shoot from. It provides a good balance of functionality and value.

This product is not ideal for competitive shooters who require a more specialized shooting mat with advanced features. It also isn’t good for individuals who need maximum padding and comfort during extended prone shooting sessions. A must-have accessory would be a small cleaning kit to maintain the case.

Conclusion on NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray

The NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray is a solid, budget-friendly option for anyone seeking a dual-purpose rifle case and shooting mat. It offers a convenient and practical solution for carrying rifles and providing a comfortable shooting surface. The heavy-duty PVC construction ensures durability, while the internal compartments offer useful storage space.

Considering its affordable price of $52.49, the value proposition is excellent. It effectively combines two essential pieces of gear into one convenient package. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and functional solution. Upgrade your shooting setup today with the NcStar Rifle Case/Shooting Mat Urban Gray.

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