Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat Review

The Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat Made a Bold First Impression

As someone who’s spent over a decade elbow-deep in the guts of firearms, particularly the venerable 1911, a reliable cleaning surface is non-negotiable. The Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat promised a dedicated, organized space for this meticulous task, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

My old setup involved a hodgepodge of rags, cardboard, and a perpetually overflowing parts bin; cleaning a 1911 became a scavenger hunt. I needed a solution that offered both protection for my workspace and organization for the myriad small parts that inevitably get scattered during disassembly. Unboxing the Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat, I was immediately struck by its size and the integrated parts tray. The mat felt robust, and the printing of the 1911 exploded diagram seemed clear and helpful.

Compared to a generic gun cleaning mat or simply using a workbench surface, the Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat offers a dedicated and specialized cleaning area. It directly addresses the needs of 1911 owners, something a universal mat simply can’t do. My initial reaction was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism; the potential for a cleaner, more organized workspace was tantalizing, but I needed to see it in action to be truly convinced.

Real-World Testing: Putting Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat to the Test

First Use Experience

My first foray with the Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat was after a long day at the range, putting my trusty .45 through its paces. I used it on my workbench, which I typically try to protect with layers of cardboard, but still gets marred over time. The Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat provided ample space to completely disassemble the 1911, with room to spare.

The oil-resistant surface proved its worth immediately; spills of CLP and solvent wiped up easily without leaving any residue. I really appreciated not having to worry about damaging my workbench. The built-in parts tray was a godsend; no more crawling around on the floor looking for runaway detent pins. I didn’t need any time to get used to it; the layout was intuitive, and the printed diagram was surprisingly helpful as a quick reference.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat has become an indispensable part of my cleaning routine. It has stood up remarkably well to repeated cleanings and the occasional accidental scrape from a steel punch. The mat still looks new, and the printed diagram remains clear and legible.

The oil-resistant surface continues to repel solvents and oils effectively, preventing any damage to my workbench. Maintenance is a breeze; a quick wipe down with a clean rag is all it takes. Compared to my previous chaotic cleaning sessions, the Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat has significantly improved my workflow, saving time and frustration. It definitely outperforms my previous methods, and I wish I had gotten one sooner.

Breaking Down the Features of Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat

Specifications

The Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat is specifically designed for cleaning and maintaining 1911-style pistols. It features an oil-resistant surface that protects work surfaces from chemicals and spills. The integrated parts tray keeps small components organized and prevents loss.

The mat includes a printed exploded diagram of a 1911, providing a visual guide for disassembly and reassembly. The mat’s dimensions are generous enough to accommodate a fully disassembled 1911 with room to spare. These specifications are important because they directly address the needs of 1911 owners, providing a dedicated, organized, and protective cleaning surface.

Performance & Functionality

The Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat performs its job exceptionally well, providing a secure and organized space for cleaning and maintaining a 1911. Its oil-resistant surface effectively protects work surfaces from chemicals and spills, while the parts tray keeps small components organized and prevents loss. The printed diagram is a helpful quick reference guide.

The mat’s main strength is its dedicated design for the 1911 platform. The size and layout are perfectly suited for this specific firearm. One area for potential improvement would be adding a small raised edge around the perimeter to further contain spills. It definitely meets my expectations and has streamlined my cleaning process.

Design & Ergonomics

The Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat features a simple, functional design that prioritizes practicality. The materials used are durable and oil-resistant, ensuring a long lifespan. The weight is light enough for easy portability, but substantial enough to prevent it from sliding around on the workbench.

The layout of the mat is intuitive, with ample space for all the components of a disassembled 1911. There’s virtually no learning curve; it’s ready to use right out of the package.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the quality of materials and construction, the Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat should last for years with proper care. It’s resistant to tearing, chemicals, and abrasion. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe down with a clean rag after each use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat itself does not come with any additional accessories. However, it enhances the usability of other cleaning tools, such as brushes, solvents, and gun cloths. It doesn’t offer any direct customization options, but its utility makes it a valuable addition to any 1911 owner’s cleaning kit. The parts tray could potentially be upgraded with different inserts, but it functions well as is.

Pros and Cons of Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat

Who Should Buy Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat?

The Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat is perfect for any 1911 owner who regularly cleans and maintains their firearm. It’s ideal for gunsmiths, competitive shooters, and recreational shooters alike. It’s especially beneficial for those who value organization and want to protect their work surfaces from chemicals and spills.

Someone who rarely cleans their 1911 or prefers to have it professionally cleaned might not find it as essential. A must-have accessory to complement the mat would be a good set of gun cleaning brushes and solvents.

Conclusion on Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat

The Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat is a well-designed and practical tool for any 1911 enthusiast. It provides a dedicated, organized, and protective surface for cleaning and maintaining this iconic firearm. The price is absolutely justified given its functionality, durability, and the peace of mind it provides.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Real Avid/Revo 1911 Smart Mat to anyone who owns a 1911 and values a clean, organized workspace. If you’re tired of chasing runaway parts and worrying about spills, this mat is a worthwhile investment. Get yours today and experience the difference!