NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray Review

First Thoughts on the NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray

The NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray promises comfort and convenience for shooters on the go. Manufactured by NcStar, this mat aims to provide a portable and durable platform for prone shooting, doubling as ground padding for camping. After years of using everything from old blankets to dedicated (and expensive) shooting mats, I was intrigued by the NcStar’s budget-friendly approach and compact design.

My biggest problem has always been finding a shooting mat that’s easy to carry and comfortable. The dedicated mats I’ve owned were bulky, while makeshift solutions lacked adequate padding and durability. I needed something that could withstand the rigors of outdoor shooting and offer a decent level of comfort without breaking the bank or my back.

Unboxing the NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray, my first impression was that it seemed surprisingly lightweight. The urban gray PVC material felt reasonably tough to the touch, though I immediately wondered about its long-term resistance to abrasion. The roll-up design with hook and loop straps appeared practical, and the carry handle and shoulder strap suggested ease of transport.

Compared to higher-end shooting mats from brands like Creedmoor or Armageddon Gear, the NcStar obviously lacks the premium materials and robust construction. However, those mats often come with a significantly higher price tag. Cheaper options like generic yoga mats or surplus military blankets simply don’t offer the same level of dedicated functionality. I chose the NcStar because it seemed to strike a reasonable balance between affordability, portability, and basic functionality.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The price point was certainly appealing, but I remained skeptical about its long-term durability and comfort. Only real-world testing would reveal whether the NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray could truly deliver on its promises.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray at a local outdoor shooting range. The range had gravelly ground and minimal shade, making a comfortable shooting platform essential. I also used it on an impromptu backcountry target shooting session on a somewhat muddy hillside.

The mat provided a noticeable improvement in comfort compared to shooting directly on the ground. The .30″ of padding was adequate for absorbing the impact of rocks and uneven terrain, though it wasn’t plush. It was fairly easy to unroll and roll back up, even with a bit of mud clinging to it. One surprise was how well the shoulder strap worked to secure the bipod, reducing rifle movement during recoil.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray has held up reasonably well, though some signs of wear are starting to appear. The PVC material shows some scuff marks from contact with rocks and gravel, but no major tears or punctures yet. The hook and loop straps are still functioning properly, but I suspect they may be the first point of failure.

Cleaning the mat is relatively simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and mud. Compared to my previous experiences with bulky, hard-to-clean shooting mats, the NcStar is a definite improvement in terms of maintenance. While it doesn’t offer the superior comfort or durability of high-end mats, it performs admirably for its price.

Breaking Down the Features of NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray

Specifications

• Size: The mat measures 69″ x 35″, providing ample space for prone shooting. This size is suitable for most shooters, offering enough room to maneuver and maintain a stable position.
• Color: It comes in Urban Gray, a neutral color that blends well with various outdoor environments. This is a practical choice for tactical applications where concealment is important.
• Material: Constructed from tough and durable PVC material, making it water and chemical resistant. This provides a degree of protection against the elements and accidental spills.
• Padding: Features .30″ of padding for enhanced comfort when shooting from the prone position. While not exceptionally thick, it provides a noticeable improvement over bare ground.
• Portability: Rolls up into a compact size of 19 1/2″ x 8 1/2″ and is secured with two hook and loop straps. This compact roll makes it easy to transport and store.
• Carry Options: Includes a carry handle and an adjustable shoulder strap for easy transport. The shoulder strap also doubles as a bipod securing strap, preventing forward rifle movement under recoil.

Performance & Functionality

The NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray performs its primary job of providing a comfortable and stable shooting platform reasonably well. The slip-resistant elbow and knee panels help maintain a solid shooting position. While the padding isn’t luxurious, it’s adequate for most shooting scenarios.

The main strength is its portability. It’s lightweight and easy to roll up and carry, making it ideal for shooters who need to move frequently. A potential weakness is the long-term durability of the PVC material, especially under harsh conditions. Overall, it meets expectations for a budget-friendly shooting mat.

Design & Ergonomics

The NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray has a simple, functional design. The urban gray color is practical and unobtrusive. The weight is manageable, making it easy to carry over longer distances.

The design is user-friendly. There’s no learning curve involved; simply unroll and start shooting.

Durability & Maintenance

The PVC material seems reasonably durable, but I anticipate some wear and tear over time, especially with frequent use on rough surfaces. The re-enforcement cross stitching in critical areas is a welcome addition, enhancing its resistance to tearing. It is easy to clean with a damp cloth.

With proper care, the NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray should last for a few seasons of regular use. I would recommend storing it indoors when not in use to prolong its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the carry handle and shoulder strap. There are no customization options available. While aftermarket accessories aren’t really applicable to a shooting mat, the user could add their own padding or modifications if desired.

Pros and Cons of NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray

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Who Should Buy NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray?

The NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray is perfect for:

• Casual shooters who need a portable and affordable shooting mat for range use.
• Hunters who require a lightweight mat for prone shooting in the field.
• Campers seeking a dual-purpose mat for shooting and ground padding under a sleeping bag.

This product should be skipped by:

• Professional or competitive shooters who require premium comfort and durability.
• Individuals who frequently shoot on extremely rocky or uneven terrain and need maximum padding.

A must-have modification would be adding additional padding if maximum comfort is needed.

Conclusion on NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray

The NcStar Roll Up Shooting Mat Urban Gray offers a practical and budget-friendly solution for shooters seeking a portable and functional shooting platform. While it doesn’t boast the high-end features or exceptional durability of more expensive mats, it provides adequate comfort and convenience for casual use. The price is absolutely justified.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and easily transportable shooting mat. It’s a great option for beginner to intermediate shooters who don’t want to invest in a pricier, more specialized mat.

Get out there, stay comfortable, and shoot straight!

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