TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT Review

The TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT Made a Bold First Impression

The TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT for the HECKLER & KOCH USP, measuring 11″x17″, isn’t the flashiest piece of gear on my workbench, but it promises to be a workhorse. At a mere $6.99, it’s an incredibly accessible entry point into the world of dedicated gun cleaning and maintenance surfaces. My initial impression is that it aims for functionality over frills, and I’m keen to see if it delivers.

For years, I’ve used a combination of old towels, cardboard, and the occasional lucky find of a rubber mat. While functional, they were never ideal. They lacked dedicated organization and were difficult to clean. The TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT seemed like a solution to tame the chaos.

Upon removing it from the packaging, the mat felt surprisingly sturdy for its price point. The material has a slight texture, promising a grip that will keep small parts from rolling away into the abyss of my workbench. The printing is clear and depicts an exploded view of the H&K USP, which is a nice touch. It’s far from the elaborate, oversized mats I’ve seen for AR-15s, but for the USP, its compact size felt right.

Compared to a generic rubber shop mat I have, the TEKMAT is thinner and less cushioned, but features specific diagrams for the H&K USP. Against a larger, more expensive gun cleaning mat meant for rifles, the TEKMAT is obviously smaller and lacks the same level of premium feel. Ultimately, the TEKMAT won out for this specific pistol because of its compact size, specific diagram, and low cost.

I’m cautiously optimistic. My initial excitement isn’t explosive, but there’s a sense of anticipation. This could be the little organizational tool I’ve been missing.

Real-World Testing: Putting TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test took place on my somewhat cluttered workbench, during a routine cleaning of my H&K USP after a range trip. The mat immediately provided a defined workspace, a welcome change from the usual sprawl. The surface held the pistol and its disassembled parts securely, preventing them from sliding around as I worked.

Cleaning solvents and oils beaded up on the surface of the TEKMAT, making cleanup a breeze. I intentionally dripped some Hoppe’s No. 9 on the mat to test its resistance to common chemicals. Wiping it clean left no visible stains or residue.

The detailed diagram of the USP proved surprisingly useful, even for someone intimately familiar with the platform. It served as a quick reference, ensuring I didn’t miss any steps during reassembly. There were no immediate issues. The mat stayed in place and provided a secure, organized workspace.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT continues to perform admirably. It has become a permanent fixture on my workbench, seeing action at least once a week.

Durability has been impressive so far. Despite repeated exposure to solvents and the occasional accidental scrape from tools, the surface shows no signs of significant wear or tear. Minor scuffs are easily wiped away, and the printing remains clear and intact.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any grime or residue. For more stubborn stains, a mild detergent works wonders. Compared to constantly replacing paper towels or wrestling with slippery rubber mats, this TEKMAT is a significant upgrade. It outperforms my previous cleaning methods in terms of organization, ease of cleaning, and protection of my workbench.

Breaking Down the Features of TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 11″ x 17″ provide a compact yet sufficient working area for the H&K USP pistol. This size is ideal for smaller workbenches or for those who prefer a more focused workspace.
  • Material: Constructed from a thermoplastic fiber top and vulcanized rubber base, the TEKMAT offers a good balance of grip and durability. The thermoplastic fiber is resistant to common solvents, while the rubber base prevents slippage.
  • Diagram: Features a detailed exploded view of the HECKLER & KOCH USP pistol, with labeled parts. This diagram is invaluable for disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly, especially for those less familiar with the platform.
  • Solvent Resistance: Designed to resist common gun cleaning solvents, protecting your work surface. This feature prevents damage to your workbench and ensures the longevity of the mat itself.
  • Price: At $6.99, this mat is an extremely affordable option for any gun owner. It’s a small investment that provides significant benefits in terms of organization and protection.

These specifications directly impact the performance and user experience by providing a safe, organized, and informative workspace for gun maintenance. The solvent resistance protects both the user’s workbench and the mat itself, extending its lifespan.

Performance & Functionality

The TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT excels at its primary function: providing a stable and organized surface for cleaning and maintaining the HECKLER & KOCH USP. It keeps small parts from rolling away and protects the workbench from scratches and spills.

Its strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. There are no moving parts or complex features to malfunction. Its weakness is its limited size, which might be restrictive for larger projects or more complex firearms. It meets expectations for basic cleaning and maintenance tasks, but doesn’t offer advanced features found in more expensive mats.

Design & Ergonomics

The TEKMAT‘s design is straightforward and functional. The materials are lightweight and provide a comfortable, non-slip surface.

It is undeniably user-friendly. The diagram is clear and easy to understand, and the mat requires no setup.

Durability & Maintenance

The materials used in the TEKMAT suggest a reasonable lifespan with proper care. The vulcanized rubber base should resist cracking or crumbling, while the thermoplastic fiber top is designed to withstand solvent exposure.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down after use. With routine cleaning, it should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT itself does not come with any accessories, nor does it offer customization options. Its primary function is to provide a dedicated workspace, and it does so without the need for additional features.

It’s compatible with any standard gun cleaning tools and solvents.

Pros and Cons of TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT

Pros

  • Incredibly affordable at only $6.99.
  • Provides a dedicated and organized workspace.
  • Solvent-resistant surface protects your workbench.
  • Detailed H&K USP diagram for easy reference.
  • Easy to clean and maintain.

Cons

  • Relatively small size might be limiting for some users.
  • Lacks cushioning compared to thicker mats.


Who Should Buy TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT?

The TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT is perfect for H&K USP owners who want a dedicated, affordable, and easy-to-clean workspace for gun maintenance. It’s ideal for both novice and experienced gun owners who appreciate organization and want to protect their work surfaces.

Those who need a larger workspace for working on multiple firearms or require heavy cushioning should skip this product. Owners of other pistol types would need to seek a different TEKMAT specific to their firearm.

Must-have accessories include standard gun cleaning tools, solvents, and lubricants.

Conclusion on TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT

The TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT is a simple but effective tool that significantly improves the gun cleaning and maintenance experience. It provides a dedicated workspace, protects your workbench, and offers a handy reference diagram, all at an incredibly affordable price.

At $6.99, the price is more than justified. It’s a small investment that provides a tangible benefit in terms of organization, convenience, and protection.

I would absolutely recommend the TEKMAT ARMORERS BENCH MAT to any H&K USP owner. It’s an inexpensive and effective way to upgrade your gun cleaning setup. Stop using those old towels and get yourself a TEKMAT!


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