The NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green Made a Bold First Impression
The NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green promises a portable and comfortable shooting platform at an incredibly accessible price point. As someone who’s spent over a decade prone in various terrains, from rocky mountainsides to damp grasslands, I’m always looking for gear that offers practical utility without breaking the bank. My search often leads me to question whether affordability equates to sacrificing quality.
I decided to give the NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green a try after a particularly uncomfortable weekend at a long-range competition. I was tired of relying on makeshift solutions like folded jackets and scavenged cardboard to protect myself from the elements and uneven ground. The promise of a water-resistant, padded surface that could easily be rolled up and transported seemed like the perfect solution to my problem.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The green PVC material seemed adequately durable, and the .30″ of padding, while not luxurious, felt like a welcome upgrade from my current setup. Compared to more premium shooting mats I’ve used (think those from Creedmoor Sports or Armageddon Gear), the NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green definitely felt lighter and less substantial. However, its compact rolled size was appealing; I chose it over bulkier options precisely for its portability. I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green to the test at my local outdoor shooting range. The range has both covered and uncovered sections, and unfortunately, the day I chose was a damp one, with a light but persistent drizzle. Unrolling the mat revealed its generous 69″ x 35″ dimensions, providing ample space to get comfortable in the prone position.
The water-resistant PVC material proved its worth immediately, repelling the light rain and keeping me dry. The padding offered a noticeable improvement in comfort compared to the bare ground, although the .30″ thickness did leave something to be desired on particularly rocky sections. I found the adjustable shoulder strap doubling as a bipod anchor to be a clever idea, although I typically prefer to use a dedicated bipod attachment. Overall, the mat was easy to use and required no setup beyond unrolling it.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, I have a better understanding of the NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green‘s strengths and weaknesses. The PVC material has held up well to repeated use, showing no signs of tearing or significant wear. It’s easy to wipe clean after a day at the range, although it does tend to pick up dirt and dust easily.
The padding has maintained its shape, but I’ve noticed some compression in high-pressure areas like under my elbows. While still functional, it’s clear that the padding isn’t designed for heavy or prolonged use. Compared to the higher-end mats I’ve used in the past, the NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green doesn’t offer the same level of long-term comfort or durability, but for the price, it’s a reasonable compromise.
Breaking Down the Features of NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green
Specifications
The NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green boasts several key specifications that define its utility. It unrolls to a size of 69″L x 35″W, providing a decent area for prone shooting. When rolled up, it measures a compact 19.5″W x 8.5″H.
The mat is constructed from water and chemical resistant PVC material, making it suitable for use in various environments. It features .30″ of padding for added comfort. The mat also includes slip-resistant panels to help maintain traction. Two hook and loop straps secure the mat in its rolled-up state. Finally, an adjustable shoulder strap is included for easy carrying and doubles as a bipod anchor. These specs are all vital when considering a shooting mat, balancing portability, comfort, and environmental protection.
Performance & Functionality
The NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green performs its primary function adequately. It provides a relatively comfortable and stable platform for prone shooting, especially on uneven or damp ground. The water-resistant PVC is a definite plus, keeping the shooter dry in light rain or wet conditions.
However, the thin padding and the lack of dedicated features like extra padding in key areas (elbows, knees) do limit its comfort during extended shooting sessions. The adjustable shoulder strap/bipod anchor is a nice touch, but its effectiveness depends heavily on the type of bipod being used. Overall, the mat meets expectations for its price point, but it’s not a substitute for more expensive, feature-rich options.
Design & Ergonomics
The NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green features a simple and straightforward design. The green PVC material is functional but not particularly aesthetically pleasing. The mat is lightweight and easy to roll up and secure with the hook and loop straps.
The adjustable shoulder strap is comfortable enough for short-distance carrying. The mat is fairly user-friendly, with no learning curve required. The design prioritizes portability and affordability over premium materials and features.
Durability & Maintenance
The NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green‘s durability is adequate for its intended use. The PVC material is reasonably tough and resistant to tearing, but it’s not indestructible. I suspect that heavy use in harsh environments could eventually lead to wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple; the mat can be easily wiped clean with a damp cloth. However, the PVC material is prone to staining, so it’s best to clean it promptly after use. With proper care, the mat should last for a reasonable amount of time, but it’s not a buy-it-for-life item.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green comes with minimal accessories. It includes only the adjustable shoulder strap. There are no real customization options available for this product. The mat is designed as a standalone item and is not intended to be used with additional accessories beyond those typically used in prone shooting (bipods, spotting scopes, etc.).
Pros and Cons of NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green
Pros
- Provides a water-resistant barrier from damp ground.
- Offers basic padding for improved comfort during prone shooting.
- Extremely affordable, making it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Lightweight and compact when rolled up, easy to transport and store.
- The adjustable shoulder strap doubles as a bipod anchor.
Cons
- Thin padding provides limited comfort on rocky or uneven terrain.
- PVC material is durable but not particularly high-quality.
- Lacks dedicated features found in more expensive shooting mats (extra padding, integrated pockets, etc.).
Who Should Buy NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green?
The NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green is perfect for casual shooters, hunters on a budget, and beginners looking for a basic and affordable shooting platform. It’s ideal for those who need a lightweight and portable mat for occasional use at the range or in the field.
Those who should skip this product are competitive shooters, long-range enthusiasts, or anyone who spends significant time shooting from the prone position. These individuals would be better served by investing in a more durable and comfortable shooting mat with enhanced features.
A must-have accessory for this product would be some sort of additional padding, such as a folded towel or blanket, to increase comfort on hard surfaces.
Conclusion on NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green
The NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green is a budget-friendly option for those seeking a basic shooting mat. It offers a reasonable level of comfort and protection from the elements in a lightweight and portable package.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. It’s a great entry-level product for beginners or casual shooters.
I would recommend it to anyone on a tight budget who needs a simple and functional shooting mat. If you’re looking for a high-performance mat with all the bells and whistles, this isn’t it. But if you need something that gets the job done without breaking the bank, the NCStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Green is worth considering. Give it a try and elevate your shooting experience without emptying your wallet.