The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long Made a Bold First Impression
The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long isn’t exactly the kind of gear that sets your heart racing like a new rifle or a high-powered optic. But let’s be honest, a clean, organized workspace is crucial for any serious shooter or reloader. I was tired of my reloading bench looking like a bomb site, covered in spilled powder, stray primers, and scratches from tools. I needed a dedicated surface that was easy to clean, offered some protection to my bench, and wouldn’t slide around.
I’d been using a patchwork of old towels and cardboard, a truly pathetic state of affairs for a seasoned professional. My search led me to Hornady, a trusted name in the shooting world, and their simple yet promising Counter Mat 15.10″ Long. I considered a few larger, more elaborate mats with built-in trays, but they seemed overkill for my needs. The Hornady option was straightforward and affordable.
The mat arrived in a simple, unassuming package. Upon unboxing, the Counter Mat 15.10″ Long felt solid and well-made. It wasn’t flashy, but it had a clean, professional look, something a serious gun enthusiast and reloader would respect. I was initially surprised by the size; I perhaps envisioned something larger.
Compared to generic workbench liners or even some of the larger, more elaborate reloading mats, the Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long is definitely on the smaller side. However, I appreciated its portability and its ability to fit neatly on my existing bench without taking up too much space. My first impression was cautiously optimistic, and hopeful for a great reloading experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing ground for the Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long was my reloading bench. I immediately put it to work during a session of loading .223 Remington rounds. The mat provided a stable, non-slip surface for my powder scale, reloading press, and various small tools. I purposefully spilled some powder to test its cleanability.
The mat excelled during that first reload. The smooth surface easily wiped clean with a damp cloth. The size, while initially a concern, proved to be just right for containing my immediate workspace. I did notice that if I was working with larger components, like a fully disassembled AR-15 bolt carrier group, I needed to be mindful of keeping everything within the mat’s perimeter.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long is holding up admirably. I’ve used it for everything from reloading pistol cartridges to cleaning and lubricating firearms. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, no cuts, tears, or fading. The mat still lays flat and doesn’t slide around, and my reloading bench is kept free from grime.
Maintenance is incredibly easy; a quick wipe down with a cloth is all it takes. It has handled spilled solvents and oils without staining or degradation. Compared to my previous setup of towels and cardboard, the Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long has vastly improved my reloading experience and is a joy to use every time. The simple design and effective functionality makes this a must-have for reloaders.
Breaking Down the Features of HornADY Counter Mat 15.10″ Long
Specifications
- Length: 15.10 inches. This dimension is sufficient for basic reloading tasks or cleaning a handgun.
- Material: The mat is made from a durable, chemical-resistant material (likely a type of synthetic rubber or polymer). This is crucial for withstanding contact with gun cleaning solvents and lubricating oils.
- Non-Slip Backing: A textured underside prevents the mat from sliding around on the workbench. This is an essential feature for maintaining a stable workspace.
- Hornady Logo: Features the Hornady logo. This adds a touch of brand recognition and indicates the product’s origin from a reputable manufacturer.
- Simple Design: The mat is a flat, rectangular shape with no added features like raised edges or built-in trays. This keeps the cost down and makes it easy to clean and store.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the mat’s functionality, durability, and ease of use. The chemical resistance ensures that spilled solvents won’t damage the mat, while the non-slip backing prevents unwanted movement during delicate tasks.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long performs its job admirably. It provides a clean, stable, and protective surface for various tasks. It’s easy to clean, resists chemical damage, and stays put on the workbench.
Its primary weakness is its size, especially when working with larger firearms or complex tasks. It perfectly meets my expectations for a basic, affordable counter mat. It’s a simple tool that solves a simple problem, and it does it well.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long sports a utilitarian design that prioritizes functionality over aesthetics. The material feels durable and comfortable enough to work on for extended periods. It’s lightweight and easy to move around or store when not in use.
There is no learning curve; it’s a mat, after all. You simply place it on your workbench and start using it. The simple design contributes to its overall user-friendliness.
Durability & Maintenance
The mat’s durability appears to be excellent. The chemical-resistant material should withstand years of use. Maintenance is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth or mild detergent.
The simple construction means there’s nothing to break or wear out, and no complex repairs are needed. Its uncomplicated design increases its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long doesn’t come with any specific accessories. There are no customization options available. However, it is compatible with a wide range of other accessories, such as gun cleaning kits, reloading tools, and parts trays.
The mat is a standalone product designed to complement other existing tools and accessories. It will fit into any reloaders existing setup.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long
Pros
- Affordable Price: At around $10, it’s a budget-friendly way to upgrade your workspace.
- Durable and Chemical-Resistant: Built to withstand spills and harsh solvents.
- Non-Slip Backing: Keeps the mat securely in place.
- Easy to Clean: A quick wipe is all it takes.
- Compact Size: Fits neatly on most workbenches without taking up too much space.
Cons
- Small Size: May not be large enough for working with larger firearms or complex tasks.
- Basic Design: Lacks features like raised edges or built-in trays.
Who Should Buy Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long?
The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long is perfect for:
- Reloaders who want a clean and organized workspace.
- Gun owners who need a protective surface for cleaning and maintenance.
- Anyone looking for an affordable and durable workbench mat.
Who should skip this product? Those who need a larger work surface or want a mat with integrated features like trays or compartments. Those wanting a surface to work on a complete rifle build will need something larger.
A must-have accessory is a good quality gun cleaning solvent and lubricating oil. The mat is designed to be used in conjunction with these products.
Conclusion on Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long
The Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long is a simple, affordable, and effective tool for anyone who wants to keep their workbench clean and organized. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done. The price is definitely justified; it’s a small investment that can significantly improve your workspace.
I would personally recommend it to anyone who is tired of working on a cluttered and unprotected surface. If you’re looking for a basic but reliable workbench mat, the Hornady Counter Mat 15.10″ Long is an excellent choice. Upgrade your reloading or cleaning station today!