Let’s Talk About Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray
The Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray is more than just a bench mat; it’s a portable armorer’s station designed to protect your firearms and workspace while providing quick reference for AR-15 takedown and maintenance. Cerus Gear aims to provide practical tools for firearm enthusiasts, and this Promat seems like a convenient solution for on-the-go gun cleaning and maintenance. Its instructional design promises to be especially helpful for newer AR-15 owners.
I was initially looking for a durable, easily storable mat to prevent scratches and damage to my AR-15 during cleaning and small repairs at the range. I needed something that was also compact enough to fit in my range bag alongside my tools and cleaning supplies. The instructional aspect of this mat immediately caught my attention as a helpful feature, particularly when assisting new shooters with the platform.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the quality of the neoprene material. The 3mm thickness seemed adequate to provide a protective barrier without being overly bulky. The char gray color gives it a professional, understated look, and the printed AR-15 diagram is clear and easy to read.
I considered a couple of other mats, including a larger, thicker rubber mat and a smaller, foldable microfiber mat. However, the larger mat was too cumbersome for my range bag, and the microfiber mat lacked the instructional component. The Cerus Gear Promat struck a good balance between size, protection, and educational value.
My first impression was quite positive; the mat seemed well-made and thoughtfully designed. The inclusion of AR-15 instructions suggested Cerus Gear understood the needs of its target audience. I was excited to see how it would perform during my next range visit.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray at my local outdoor shooting range. I used it as a base for disassembling and cleaning my AR-15 after a morning of target practice. The mat provided ample space for laying out the various components of the rifle.
The weather was slightly damp, but the neoprene material proved to be water-resistant, preventing moisture from seeping through to the table surface. The instructional diagram was handy when I needed a quick reminder of the correct order for reassembling certain parts. The mat stayed in place on the table, thanks to its grippy underside.
I didn’t experience any significant issues, although I did notice that the mat could potentially stain if exposed to certain solvents for extended periods. A quick wipe-down after cleaning prevented any lasting marks. The mat was a helpful aid in keeping the small parts from rolling off the table and getting lost in the dirt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray for regular cleaning and maintenance, it’s holding up surprisingly well. I’ve used it both at the range and on my workbench at home. The printing remains clear, and the neoprene shows minimal signs of wear.
The mat has proven to be fairly durable, resisting tears and abrasions despite occasional contact with sharp tools. A few minor stains are visible, particularly from CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Protectant), but they don’t detract from its overall functionality. The cleanup process is simple: a quick wipe with a damp cloth, followed by air drying.
Compared to using a bare table or a shop rag, the Cerus Gear Promat significantly enhances the gun cleaning experience. It provides a dedicated, protected workspace and the instructional diagram adds real value. It outperforms my previous improvised solutions.
Breaking Down the Features of Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray
Specifications
The Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray is designed as a universal mat suitable for use with any caliber of AR-15. Its dimensions are 12 inches by 36 inches, providing a reasonable workspace for most AR-15 components.
The mat is constructed from 3mm thick neoprene, offering a cushioned surface to protect your firearm and workspace. The top surface features a detailed, printed diagram of an AR-15, labeled with the names of key components. This is a key feature for both new and seasoned AR-15 owners alike.
- Type: Mats. This indicates its primary function as a protective and instructional surface.
- Caliber or gauge: Universal. Meaning it’s not specific to one AR-15 caliber.
- Material: Neoprene. Provides cushioning and some resistance to chemicals.
- Master pack: 40. Relevant for retailers, not individual users.
- Other features: 3mm neoprene and an “a,”. The “a” seems like an incomplete entry and doesn’t provide meaningful information, but the neoprene is critical to function.
These specifications translate to a portable, protective, and instructional surface. The neoprene construction ensures durability and protects against minor spills, while the printed diagram serves as a valuable reference tool. The 12″x36″ size provides adequate space without being overly bulky.
Performance & Functionality
The Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray performs its job admirably by providing a stable and protective surface for firearm maintenance. The instructional diagram is a valuable asset, especially for those less familiar with AR-15 disassembly and reassembly. The mat is easy to clean and rolls up for convenient storage.
One of its key strengths is its portability; it’s lightweight and easily fits into a range bag. A minor weakness is that the neoprene can absorb certain chemicals, leading to potential staining. It generally meets expectations for a basic cleaning and maintenance mat.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cerus Gear Promat features a simple, functional design with a focus on practicality. The neoprene material provides a comfortable, cushioned surface, while the printed diagram is clear and easy to read.
It’s a very user-friendly product with virtually no learning curve. Its intuitive layout makes it accessible to both novice and experienced gun owners. The weight is negligible, making it easy to carry.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cerus Gear Promat is reasonably durable for its intended purpose. The neoprene construction resists tearing and abrasion, while the printing is surprisingly resilient. With proper care, it should last for several years of regular use.
Maintaining the mat is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient. For more stubborn stains, a mild detergent can be used. Regular cleaning will help to extend the mat’s lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the mat itself. There are no customization options available directly for the mat. However, users can easily supplement it with other cleaning and maintenance tools.
The mat is compatible with virtually any AR-15 cleaning kit or lubricant. You could use bore snakes, cleaning rods, brushes, and solvents from brands like Hoppe’s, Otis, or Real Avid alongside this mat. This greatly increases the utility of this simple tool.
Pros and Cons of Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray
Pros
- Clear and helpful AR-15 instructional diagram. This is invaluable for new AR-15 owners and a handy refresher for experienced users.
- Protective 3mm neoprene construction. Provides a cushioned surface to prevent scratches and damage.
- Lightweight and portable design. Easy to carry in a range bag or store when not in use.
- Easy to clean and maintain. Simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient.
- Affordable price point. Offers good value for the functionality it provides.
Cons
- Neoprene material can stain if exposed to harsh solvents for extended periods.
- The size may be too small for more extensive AR-15 builds or modifications.
Who Should Buy Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray?
The Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray is perfect for new AR-15 owners who are learning to disassemble, clean, and maintain their rifles. It’s also a great option for experienced shooters who want a portable and protective surface for gun cleaning at the range. It’s suitable for casual shooters and those who perform basic maintenance on their firearms.
Those who perform extensive AR-15 builds or modifications may find the mat’s size limiting. Individuals who require a highly solvent-resistant surface might want to consider alternative materials. People with very limited cleaning to no cleaning may also find the mat to be unnecessary.
A must-have accessory to accompany the Cerus Gear Promat is a quality AR-15 cleaning kit. Consider purchasing a CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant, Protectant) solution to keep your rifle properly maintained. A set of gunsmithing tools can also be helpful for more advanced maintenance tasks.
Conclusion on Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray
Overall, the Cerus Gear 3mm Promats 12″x36″ Ar-15 Instructional Char Gray is a well-designed and practical accessory for AR-15 owners. Its combination of protection, portability, and instructional value makes it a worthwhile investment.
The price is certainly justified for what you get. For $24.99, you’re getting a durable, informative, and easy-to-use cleaning mat.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a convenient and affordable solution for AR-15 maintenance. Get yours today and take the pain out of cleaning.