Let’s Dive into Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat
The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a commitment to accuracy and mobility in the field. Manufactured by Crosstac, this mat boasts dual camo patterns, integrated bipod rails, and a lightweight, packable design. It’s designed for shooters who value adaptability and a minimalist approach.
I needed a shooting platform that wouldn’t weigh me down on long treks and offered a stable base in varied terrains. I was tired of lugging around bulky, uncomfortable mats that limited my mobility and weren’t adaptable to different environments. I wanted something lightweight, versatile, and rugged enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor shooting.
Upon unboxing, the Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat felt surprisingly light yet robust. The 500D Cordura material exuded quality, and the dual camo patterns (Multicam and Multicam Arid) were a thoughtful touch. It rolled up neatly, secured by flat bungee straps, and packed down impressively small.
Compared to the heavier, single-camo mats from Voodoo Tactical and Condor, the Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat stood out with its lighter weight, dual camo, and integrated bipod rails. The others felt bulky and less adaptable. The Crosstac offered the perfect blend of features and portability I was looking for.
My initial impression was excitement. The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat seemed to address all my needs in a compact, well-designed package. I was eager to put it through its paces in the field and see if it lived up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat at a local shooting range with varied terrain. This included both a flat, maintained area and a more natural, uneven section with rocks and sparse vegetation. The mat was used while sighting in a new rifle and practicing long-range shots.
In dry conditions, the mat provided a stable and comfortable shooting platform. The dual camo proved useful as I transitioned between the grassy and more arid sections of the range. I used it prone on both dirt and gravel.
The mat was incredibly easy to use, simply unrolling and providing an instant shooting surface. The integrated bipod rails were a welcome feature, providing added stability. There were no surprises, just immediate usability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat has held up remarkably well. It’s been used on numerous range trips, as well as a few backcountry hunting excursions. The 500D Cordura has proven incredibly durable.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear. Even after being dragged across rocks and exposed to the elements, the mat shows only minor scuff marks. The stitching remains intact and the bungee straps are still strong.
Cleaning is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dirt and debris. The closed-cell foam padding doesn’t absorb water, which prevents mildew and odor buildup.
Compared to my previous experiences with less durable mats, the Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat outperforms them significantly. It’s lighter, more durable, and offers better features, making it a worthwhile investment. It definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat
Specifications
The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat is constructed from 500-Denier WR Cordura, ensuring exceptional durability and water resistance. It features integral web bipod rails on each side. These provide enhanced stability when shooting with a bipod.
The mat includes padding with 1/8in of closed-cell premium foam, offering both comfort and insulation from the ground. The dual-camo design features Multicam on one side and Multicam Arid on the other. It provides versatility in various environments. The flat bungee straps keep the mat securely rolled up for storage and transport.
These specifications directly impact the mat’s performance and user experience. The durable Cordura ensures long-lasting use in harsh conditions. The bipod rails enhance shooting accuracy, while the foam padding adds comfort and protects the shooter from the elements. The dual camo patterns make the mat adaptable to different terrains.
Performance & Functionality
The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat excels at its primary function: providing a stable and comfortable shooting platform in various environments. The integrated bipod rails significantly improve stability, allowing for more accurate shots. It offers ample space for prone shooting and keeps the shooter clean and dry.
Its strengths lie in its lightweight design, durability, and versatility. The dual camo and bipod rails are particularly useful features. One potential improvement could be the addition of a small pocket for storing essential items.
The mat meets and exceeds expectations for a lightweight, packable shooting platform. It provides a significant improvement in comfort and stability compared to shooting directly from the ground. It’s become an indispensable piece of my gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes functionality and portability. The 500D Cordura provides excellent durability without adding excessive weight. At only 1.5 lbs (regular length), it’s easy to carry on long treks.
The mat is exceptionally user-friendly. Simply unroll it and you’re ready to shoot. The integrated bipod rails are easy to use and provide a stable platform for bipod-equipped rifles. There is no learning curve whatsoever.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from 500-Denier WR Cordura, the Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat is built to last. The material is highly resistant to tears, abrasions, and water damage. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The closed-cell foam padding is water-resistant, preventing mold and mildew growth. There are no user-serviceable parts requiring repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat comes with flat bungee straps for securing the rolled-up mat. It features Molle webbing for attaching it to packs or other gear.
There aren’t any specific Crosstac-branded accessories for this mat. However, its Molle webbing allows for compatibility with a wide range of third-party pouches and accessories. Shooters can customize it to their specific needs. The sewn in web bipod rails are compatible with most bipods, including those from Harris and Atlas.
Pros and Cons of Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat
Pros
- Lightweight and Packable: At only 1.5 lbs, it won’t weigh you down on long treks.
- Durable Construction: The 500D Cordura ensures long-lasting performance in harsh conditions.
- Integrated Bipod Rails: Provides enhanced stability for more accurate shooting.
- Dual Camo Patterns: Multicam and Multicam Arid for versatile use in various environments.
- Easy to Clean and Maintain: A quick wipe down is all that’s needed.
Cons
- Padding Could Be Thicker: While the 1/8in foam provides some comfort, thicker padding might be preferred for extended prone shooting.
- No Integrated Storage: A small pocket for essential items would be a useful addition.
Who Should Buy Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat?
The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat is perfect for hunters, competitive shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize mobility and versatility. It’s ideal for those who need a lightweight and durable shooting platform that can adapt to various environments. Anyone who appreciates well-designed, functional gear will find value in this product.
This product might not be the best choice for shooters who primarily shoot from established ranges with permanent shooting benches. Or for those who prefer maximum padding over portability. Those looking for built in pockets and features may be dissapointed.
A must-have accessory is a quality bipod for use with the integrated bipod rails. A small utility pouch attached to the Molle webbing can also be useful for storing essential items.
Conclusion on Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat
The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat is an excellent piece of gear that delivers on its promise of lightweight portability and reliable performance. Its durable construction, integrated bipod rails, and dual camo patterns make it a versatile tool for any serious shooter.
At $137.99, the price is justified by the mat’s quality, durability, and useful features. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who values accuracy and mobility in the field.
I would highly recommend the Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat to anyone looking for a lightweight, packable, and durable shooting platform. It’s become an indispensable part of my kit. Invest in your accuracy and mobility – grab a Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat today!