Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 Review

The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 Made a Bold First Impression

As someone deeply entrenched in the world of firearms and tactical gear for over a decade, I’ve learned that even the smallest details can make a huge difference. When I first saw the Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12, I immediately recognized its potential to enhance my workbench setup. It promised to be more than just a protective surface; it seemed like a testament to quality and functionality, a sentiment I’ve come to appreciate from Midwest Industries.

I was looking for a durable, solvent-resistant mat that could not only protect my firearms during cleaning and maintenance but also add a touch of professionalism to my workspace. The sleek design and the promise of a non-slip base drew me in. My workbench has seen its fair share of spills and scratches, so finding a mat that could stand up to rigorous use was paramount.

Upon unboxing the Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12, I was immediately struck by the quality of the materials. The vulcanized rubber base felt substantial, and the heat-bonded polyester top had a smooth, premium feel. The size, 36×12 inches, felt just right, offering ample space without overwhelming my workbench. Compared to a generic rubber mat I had been using and a smaller, less durable gun cleaning pad from another brand, the Midwest Industries mat felt like a significant upgrade.

My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to finally have a dedicated, high-quality surface for firearm maintenance. This mat felt like a professional tool, not just an accessory.

Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 was during a deep clean of my Marlin 336 lever action rifle. I set it up on my workbench in the garage. The mat immediately provided a stable and protected surface.

I used various solvents and oils during the cleaning process. I was pleased to find that none of them stained or damaged the mat’s surface. The generous size allowed me to spread out my tools and components without feeling cramped. There were no issues after using it for the first time.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 has proven to be remarkably durable. It has handled numerous firearm cleanings and small repairs without showing any significant signs of wear and tear. The dye sublimation printing remains vibrant and hasn’t rubbed off, even with repeated exposure to solvents.

The mat is incredibly easy to clean. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove any residue. Compared to my previous experience with mats that stained easily or required harsh chemicals to clean, this Midwest Industries mat has been a welcome improvement. It outperforms in both durability and ease of maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12

Specifications

The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. It measures 36 inches in length and 12 inches in width. This provides ample space for working on most firearms.

The mat is constructed of 1/8″ vulcanized rubber with a soft, heat-bonded polyester top. This combination offers both protection and a comfortable work surface. The non-slip textured rubber base ensures that the mat stays firmly in place on your workbench. This prevents unwanted movement during firearm maintenance. The dye sublimation printing ensures that the graphics won’t wear or rub off over time, and the mat is solvent and oil resistant. This further enhances its durability and longevity.

Performance & Functionality

The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 excels at its primary job: providing a safe and protected surface for working on firearms. It is accurate to say it provides safety for both the firearm and the work surface. The size is ample for most firearms, and the solvent resistance is a crucial feature for anyone who regularly cleans their guns. There are really no significant weaknesses in its functionality.

This mat meets and exceeds my expectations. I wanted a durable, solvent-resistant surface, and that’s exactly what I got. The non-slip base is particularly useful, preventing the mat from sliding around even when I’m applying force during disassembly or reassembly.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 is immediately apparent. The materials feel premium, and the construction is solid. The mat has a comfortable weight that keeps it anchored to the workbench without being cumbersome to move.

The design is user-friendly. There is no learning curve. It’s simply a matter of unrolling the mat and getting to work. The graphic of the lever action is a nice touch for those who appreciate those types of firearms.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction, I expect the Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 to last for many years. The vulcanized rubber and heat-bonded polyester are both known for their durability. The solvent and oil resistance further extends its lifespan.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any residue. More stubborn stains can be addressed with a mild soap and water solution.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12 doesn’t come with any accessories. Customization options are limited to the choice between the Lever Action Series and the AR-15 Series mats.

However, the mat is compatible with any standard gun cleaning tools, solvents, and oils. It works seamlessly with any existing firearm maintenance setup.

Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Gun Mat Lever Action Series 36×12