The Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, my reloading bench has seen its fair share of spills, dings, and generally messy situations. The Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic promised to be more than just a surface protector; it touted itself as a reference tool, something that piqued my interest. It’s from Hornady, a brand I’ve trusted for years, so I was optimistic.
I’ve been on the hunt for a durable, easy-to-clean reloading mat that offered more than just a surface to work on. I was tired of flipping through reloading manuals, constantly checking bullet specs, while simultaneously managing powder and primers. The Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic looked like it could consolidate those needs.
The mat arrived rolled up in a simple plastic sleeve. Upon unrolling it, I was immediately struck by the clarity of the bullet information printed on its surface. The plastic felt durable, and the non-skid backing seemed promising.
I considered several other mats, including a generic rubber mat and a more expensive, segmented reloading tray. I chose the Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic because of its informative layout and the reputation of Hornady. It seemed like the best balance of utility and affordability.
My initial impression was positive. It wasn’t flashy, but it seemed functional and well-made for the price. For $12.49, my expectations were exceeded.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic was my reloading bench, naturally. I was loading .223 Remington for my AR-15, a task I perform regularly. The mat immediately provided a clean, defined space to work.
During this first use, I spilled a small amount of gunpowder. The mat wiped clean instantly with a damp cloth. This was a vast improvement over my previous setup, where spills soaked into the wood of my bench.
I appreciated having the bullet information right at my fingertips. Instead of constantly consulting my reloading manual for bullet weights and ballistic coefficients, it was all clearly displayed on the mat. This significantly sped up my reloading process.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic has held up remarkably well. It still lies flat on my bench, and the non-skid backing continues to prevent it from sliding around. The printing remains clear and legible.
I’ve noticed no significant signs of wear and tear, despite numerous powder spills, primer drops, and occasional cleaning solvent splashes. The plastic surface seems resistant to most common reloading chemicals. Maintaining the Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic is incredibly easy. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to my previous bare-workbench approach, the Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic is a significant upgrade. It provides a clean, organized, and informative workspace that enhances my reloading efficiency and overall enjoyment. I have also used it for cleaning firearms and it worked as intended.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic
Specifications
The Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic measures 26 inches in length and 17 inches in width. This provides ample workspace for most reloading tasks. The mat is constructed from a durable plastic material that is resistant to common reloading chemicals.
The most notable feature is the printed reference guide of Hornady bullets. This guide includes the bullet’s caliber, diameter, weight, ballistic coefficient, sectional density, and item number. This makes it an invaluable tool for reloaders of all skill levels.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic excels at its primary function: providing a clean and organized workspace. It is also an excellent reference tool. The non-skid backing keeps the mat firmly in place, even during vigorous reloading activities.
The only weakness is that the plastic material can be slightly slippery. Small parts, such as primers, can slide around easily on the surface. However, this is a minor issue that is easily mitigated with careful handling. It meets and exceeds expectations for a simple reloading mat.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic features a simple, functional design. The bullet reference guide is clearly laid out and easy to read. The mat is lightweight and easy to move around, yet it feels durable and well-made.
There is no learning curve associated with using this mat. It’s ready to go right out of the package. It is very user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic appears to be quite durable. I expect it to last for several years with proper care. It is easy to clean and maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic does not come with any accessories, nor does it offer any customization options. It is a simple, standalone product designed for a specific purpose. However, it pairs well with a variety of reloading tools and accessories from Hornady and other brands. The use of a small parts tray is recomended.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic
Pros
- Provides a clean and organized reloading workspace.
- Features a comprehensive Hornady bullet reference guide.
- Durable and chemical-resistant plastic construction.
- Non-skid backing keeps the mat firmly in place.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Plastic surface can be slightly slippery.
- Limited to information on Hornady bullets only.
Who Should Buy Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic?
The Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic is perfect for reloaders of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced handloaders. It is particularly beneficial for those who frequently use Hornady bullets, as it provides a convenient reference guide. It is also suitable for anyone looking to improve the organization and cleanliness of their reloading bench.
Those who primarily reload with bullets from other manufacturers might find the reference guide less useful. People with very limited bench space might also find the mat’s size to be slightly too large. A small parts tray is almost a must.
Conclusion on Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic
The Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic is a simple but effective tool that enhances the reloading experience. It provides a clean, organized workspace and a convenient bullet reference guide. The value proposition is excellent.
For a mere $12.49, you get a durable and functional mat that will likely last for years. I would definitely recommend the Hornady Counter Mat 26″ X 17″ Plastic to any reloader looking to improve their bench setup. It is a worthwhile investment that will pay dividends in terms of organization, efficiency, and overall enjoyment of the reloading process. Upgrade your reloading bench today!