The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long Made a Bold First Impression
Let’s be honest, counter mats aren’t usually the kind of gear that gets the pulse racing. But the Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long isn’t just any counter mat; it’s a Hornady product, and that name carries a certain weight in the shooting and reloading world. It promised to bring some order and protection to my reloading bench, and I was hoping it would live up to the brand’s reputation for quality.
My reloading bench had become a chaotic landscape of spilled powder, stray primers, and scratched surfaces. I needed something durable, easy to clean, and that wouldn’t slide around while I was working. I had considered similar mats from RCBS and Frankford Arsenal, but the Hornady name and the promise of a non-slip surface ultimately swayed me.
The mat arrived rolled up in a simple cardboard tube. Unrolling it, the first thing I noticed was the material – a thick, pliable rubber that felt both durable and grippy. The Hornady logo was prominently displayed, adding a touch of professionalism. My initial impression was positive; it seemed like a well-made, functional product that would hopefully solve my benchtop woes.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long** to the Test
First Use Experience
My reloading bench is in my garage, which isn’t exactly climate-controlled. The first time I used the Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long was on a chilly morning. Even in the cooler temperatures, the mat laid flat and the rubber remained pliable.
I immediately noticed how well it stayed in place, even when I was applying some serious force when seating primers. Powder spills were easily contained and wiped clean. The mat’s texture provided a slight grip on small parts, preventing them from rolling off.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of tearing or cracking, even in areas that see heavy use. It has become an indispensable part of my reloading setup.
Cleaning the mat is a breeze. A quick wipe with a damp cloth or even just a paper towel is usually enough to remove any spilled powder or lubricants. The rubber material resists staining, so even after dealing with messy graphite-based lubricants, the mat still looks relatively clean. This is an improvement over my old unprotected bench surface, which would have soaked up the mess.
Breaking Down the Features of **Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long**
Specifications
- Length: 15.10 inches. This provides a decent working area without taking up too much space on the bench.
- Material: Durable rubber. This offers both a non-slip surface and protection against spills and scratches.
- Non-slip backing. Keeps the mat firmly in place on most surfaces.
- Easy to clean. Simplifies maintenance and keeps the reloading area tidy.
The rubber material is crucial for its primary function: protecting the workbench and providing a stable surface. A non-slip backing is just as important, preventing the mat from sliding around during reloading operations. The size is also a key consideration, offering enough space without being unwieldy.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long performs its job admirably. It stays put, protects the bench, and is easy to clean. It provides a stable and contained workspace for reloading tasks.
The mat’s only weakness is its size. While adequate for basic tasks, it might be too small for more complex operations or for those who prefer to spread out their equipment. It definitely meets my expectations for a basic reloading mat.
Design & Ergonomics
The mat’s design is simple but effective. The rubber material provides a comfortable surface to work on, and the Hornady logo adds a touch of professional appeal. The weight is substantial enough to keep it in place, but not so heavy that it’s difficult to move around.
There’s virtually no learning curve. Just unroll it and start reloading. The textured surface also helps to grip small parts, preventing them from rolling away, a welcome bonus.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long appears to be built to last. The thick rubber material is resistant to wear and tear, and the non-slip backing shows no signs of peeling or deterioration. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. More stubborn stains can be removed with mild soap and water.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no customization options available. Its functionality is limited to providing a protective and non-slip surface.
However, it is compatible with any reloading equipment, regardless of brand. It can be used with Hornady, RCBS, Lee Precision, or any other reloading press or tool.
Pros and Cons of **Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long**
Pros
- Durable rubber construction for long-lasting protection.
- Non-slip backing keeps the mat securely in place.
- Easy to clean, simplifying maintenance.
- Provides a stable and contained workspace.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Relatively small size may not be adequate for all tasks.
- No included accessories or customization options.
Who Should Buy **Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long**?
The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long is perfect for:
- Reloaders looking for a simple, affordable, and effective way to protect their benches.
- Hobbyists who need a non-slip surface for small projects.
- Gun owners who want to clean their firearms without damaging the underlying surface.
Who should skip this product?
- Reloaders who require a very large workspace or specific features like integrated parts trays.
- Those seeking a highly specialized mat with chemical resistance beyond basic cleaning solvents.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A good set of reloading tools is a must.
- A small parts tray can be helpful for organizing small components.
Conclusion on **Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long**
The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long is a no-frills product that delivers exactly what it promises: a durable, non-slip, and easy-to-clean surface for reloading and other tasks. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive mats, its simplicity and effectiveness make it an excellent value.
At $9.99, the price is more than justified. It’s a small investment that can save your workbench from scratches, spills, and wear and tear. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a basic but reliable counter mat.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive and effective way to protect your reloading bench, the Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long is a solid choice. Add it to your cart and say goodbye to benchtop chaos!
