The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ Made a Bold First Impression
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ is more than just a padded surface; it’s a statement piece for any gun enthusiast’s workbench. Produced by Midwest Industries, a company renowned for their AR-15 components and accessories, this mat promises a durable and functional space for gun cleaning and maintenance. I sought out this mat to address the recurring problem of protecting my work surfaces while handling firearms and small parts.
Upon unboxing, the Midwest Industries gun mat immediately impressed me with its robust construction. The weight felt substantial, hinting at the quality of the materials, and the print was crisp and vibrant. The non-slip rubber base felt secure, and the padded top offered a welcome cushion compared to the bare surface of my workbench.
I considered a few other gun mats before settling on the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″. Specifically, I looked at models from TekMat and Real Avid. Ultimately, the Midwest Industries mat won out due to its size, the appealing Alpha Series design, and the manufacturer’s reputation for quality.
My first impression was one of pleasant surprise. The mat exceeded my expectations, appearing even more substantial and well-made than I had anticipated. This gun mat seemed like the perfect blend of form and function.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ came during a thorough cleaning of my AR-15 after a dusty day at the range. I used it on my workbench in the garage. The spacious 36″x12″ area proved to be ample for completely disassembling the rifle.
Even with solvents and oils splashed during the cleaning process, the mat remained unfazed. The non-slip backing kept the mat firmly in place, even with some aggressive scrubbing. I also noticed small parts, such as detents and springs, stayed put and didn’t roll off the mat due to the soft, slightly textured surface.
I found the mat incredibly easy to use right from the start. No getting used to it was required. One pleasant surprise was how much quieter it was to work on compared to my metal workbench.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ has proven its worth. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear. The print remains vivid, and the surface still provides excellent protection.
The mat is surprisingly easy to maintain. Most spills wipe clean with a damp cloth. For tougher stains, a little mild dish soap and warm water do the trick, just as Midwest Industries recommends.
In comparison to my previous method of using old towels or newspaper, the Midwest Industries mat is a significant upgrade. It provides superior protection, a larger work area, and a much more professional and organized feel to my workspace. This mat has been nothing but a positive addition.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ features a spacious 36″x12″ padded work area, offering ample space for firearm disassembly and cleaning. It’s constructed from 1/8″ vulcanized rubber with a soft heat bonded polyester top, protecting your firearm from scratches. The non-slip textured rubber base provides a stable working surface.
These specifications translate directly to the mat’s superior performance. The size makes it easy to manage multiple components simultaneously. The materials ensure your firearms are protected from damage, and the base prevents the mat from sliding around during use.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ excels at its primary function: providing a safe and organized workspace for gun maintenance. Its large size and padded surface provide excellent protection for firearms and work surfaces. The solvent and oil resistance are a huge plus, making cleanup easy.
The mat’s main strength is its combination of size, durability, and protective qualities. The only slight weakness is that it’s not truly portable due to its size. It meets and exceeds expectations for what a gun mat should provide.
Design & Ergonomics
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ boasts a well-thought-out design. The materials are high-quality, and the mat feels robust and durable. The Alpha Series design adds a touch of visual appeal without being distracting.
The mat is incredibly user-friendly. Its large size and smooth surface make it easy to arrange and work with firearm components. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ is built to last. The vulcanized rubber construction and heat-bonded polyester top are highly durable. Proper maintenance is simple, involving only occasional cleaning with mild soap and water.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ doesn’t have accessories or customization options in the traditional sense. However, it pairs perfectly with any gun cleaning kit or maintenance tools. Its universal design makes it compatible with all firearms and accessories.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″
Pros
- Provides a spacious and protected workspace for firearm maintenance.
- The non-slip rubber base ensures stability during use.
- The solvent and oil-resistant surface simplifies cleanup.
- The durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- The Alpha Series design adds a touch of visual appeal.
Cons
- The large size makes it less portable than some other gun mats.
- Leaving the mat in direct sunlight for extended periods may cause the image to fade.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″?
The Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ is perfect for gun owners who regularly clean and maintain their firearms. It’s also an excellent choice for gunsmiths, competitive shooters, and anyone who values a clean and organized workspace. Individuals new to gun ownership and maintenance will also find this mat particularly helpful.
Those who need a highly portable mat for use at the range or in the field might want to consider a smaller, more compact option. Also, if your cleaning process consists of a very small number of steps, the utility of this large mat may not be realized. A must-have accessory to pair with the mat is a quality gun cleaning kit.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″
Overall, the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ is an outstanding product that delivers on its promises. Its durable construction, spacious work area, and solvent resistance make it a valuable addition to any gun owner’s arsenal of tools. At $32.99, the price is justified by the quality and functionality it provides.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Midwest Industries Alpha Series Gun Mat 36″x12″ to anyone looking for a reliable and effective gun cleaning and maintenance solution. Invest in your workspace and protect your firearms with this excellent mat.