Let’s Dive into MTM Quick Rest
The MTM Quick Rest is a straightforward, no-frills rifle rest designed for quick and easy zeroing or accuracy testing. Made by MTM, a name known for practical and affordable shooting accessories, this rest promises a stable platform in a lightweight package. Its simplicity and low price point make it an intriguing option for shooters who need a basic rest without the complexities of adjustable models.
I was looking for a lightweight and portable rest to keep in my truck. I needed something for quick range checks and impromptu shooting sessions on my property. My heavier, more elaborate rests are great for serious bench shooting, but overkill for quick function checks after cleaning or transporting a rifle.
My first impression upon unboxing was its minimalist design. It’s a single piece of molded red plastic; lightweight yet seemingly sturdy enough for its intended purpose. The integrated handle is a nice touch, and the padded feet look like they’ll prevent scratches on my shooting benches.
Compared to a Caldwell Stinger or a Bog DeathGrip tripod, the MTM Quick Rest is significantly less adjustable and robust. I picked it over those options because I valued portability and simplicity above all else for this particular application. Those more complex rests offer far superior stability and adjustability, but they also come with added weight and setup time.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity was appealing, but I was concerned about stability with heavier rifles. The price was certainly right, so I hoped it would deliver on its promise of a quick and simple shooting rest.
Real-World Testing: Putting MTM Quick Rest to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the MTM Quick Rest at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and slightly breezy, providing a good baseline for evaluating its performance. I used it with a variety of rifles, including a lightweight .22LR, a mid-weight AR-15, and a heavier bolt-action .308.
The .22LR was perfectly stable on the rest, providing a solid platform for accurate shots. The AR-15 also performed well, with minimal wobble. The .308, however, presented a slight challenge.
The rest felt a bit less secure with the heavier rifle. There was a noticeable wobble, especially when chambering a round.
It took a few minutes to get used to the height and positioning of the rest. The non-adjustable height meant I had to adapt my shooting position to match. However, once I found a comfortable stance, it was relatively easy to use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of occasional use, the MTM Quick Rest has held up reasonably well. It shows no signs of cracking or breaking despite being made of plastic. The red color, while initially bright, has faded slightly from sun exposure.
The plastic material is surprisingly durable for its weight. I have not observed any significant wear and tear from normal use. The padded feet still provide adequate grip and protection for my shooting surfaces.
Cleaning is a breeze; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. It requires virtually no maintenance beyond that. This is a major advantage over rests with multiple moving parts that need regular lubrication or tightening.
Compared to my previous experience with sandbag rests, the MTM Quick Rest is far more convenient. It is significantly lighter and easier to transport. However, it lacks the fine-tuned adjustability of a good set of sandbags.
Breaking Down the Features of MTM Quick Rest
Specifications
The MTM Quick Rest is a single-piece, molded plastic rifle rest. It is red in color and features a built-in handle for easy carrying. The rest has padded feet to prevent scratching surfaces and a non-marring shooting pad to protect the firearm.
- Manufacturer: MTM.
- Color: Red.
- Material: Plastic.
The plastic construction keeps the rest lightweight, making it easy to carry and transport. The padded feet and shooting pad are essential for protecting both the firearm and the shooting surface. The non-adjustable design prioritizes simplicity and ease of use.
Performance & Functionality
The MTM Quick Rest performs its primary function adequately: providing a stable platform for sighting in rifles. It offers a noticeable improvement in stability compared to shooting freehand. However, it falls short of the stability offered by more elaborate, adjustable rests.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and portability. Its weakness is the lack of adjustability. It meets the basic expectations for a lightweight, inexpensive rifle rest, but does not exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The MTM Quick Rest features a simple, functional design. The one-piece molded plastic construction is lightweight and easy to handle. The integrated handle makes it convenient to carry.
The build quality is decent for the price point. The plastic feels reasonably sturdy, but it’s not as robust as metal or composite rests. There is virtually no learning curve; it’s ready to use straight out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its plastic construction, the long-term durability of the MTM Quick Rest is a potential concern. However, after several months of use, it shows no signs of structural weakness. Proper storage and avoiding excessive weight will likely prolong its lifespan.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. The smooth plastic surface is easy to wipe clean. There are no moving parts to lubricate or adjust, making it virtually maintenance-free.
Accessories and Customization Options
The MTM Quick Rest is a basic product with limited customization options. It does not come with any additional accessories beyond what is integrated into its design (padded feet, non-marring pad, handle). Its simple design doesn’t lend itself well to modifications.
Due to its fixed height and shape, it is not readily compatible with aftermarket accessories like adjustable platforms or clamping mechanisms. The focus of the MTM Quick Rest is on simplicity and affordability, rather than customization.
Pros and Cons of MTM Quick Rest
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight and Portable: Easily transportable due to its light weight and built-in handle.
- Extremely Affordable: Very budget-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
- Simple and Easy to Use: No assembly or adjustments required; ready to use right out of the box.
- Non-Marring Shooting Pad: Protects the firearm’s finish from scratches.
- Durable Enough for Light Use: The plastic construction is surprisingly robust for its weight and cost.
Cons
- Limited Adjustability: The fixed height and angle may not suit all shooters or rifles.
- Less Stable with Heavier Rifles: Can exhibit some wobble with larger caliber or heavier firearms.
Who Should Buy MTM Quick Rest?
The MTM Quick Rest is perfect for:
- Casual shooters who need a simple and affordable rest for occasional use.
- Hunters who want a lightweight and portable rest for zeroing rifles at hunting camp.
- Anyone looking for a basic rest for rimfire rifles or airguns.
Who should skip this product?
- Competitive shooters who demand maximum stability and adjustability.
- Shooters who regularly use heavy magnum rifles.
- Those seeking a rest with fine-tuned adjustments for precision shooting.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None; the point is simplicity! If you are going to modify it, consider a better, more flexible rest.
Conclusion on MTM Quick Rest
The MTM Quick Rest delivers exactly what it promises: a quick, simple, and affordable rifle rest. It’s not the most stable or adjustable option on the market, but it excels in portability and ease of use. The plastic construction is surprisingly durable for its weight and cost.
The price is definitely justified for what you get. This is an excellent value for shooters who prioritize simplicity and portability over precision and adjustability.
I would recommend the MTM Quick Rest to anyone looking for a basic, lightweight rifle rest for occasional use. It’s perfect for quick range checks, rimfire shooting, or as a backup rest to keep in your vehicle. If you need a no-frills, budget-friendly solution, give the MTM Quick Rest a try.