The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long Made a Bold First Impression
After a decade spent elbow-deep in the intricate mechanisms of firearms, I’ve come to appreciate the unsung heroes of gun maintenance. I’m talking about the cleaning mats. My workbench has seen its share of spills and scratches, a testament to the lack of a proper protective surface early in my career. I needed a compact, durable cleaning mat that wouldn’t break the bank.
Enter the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long. The promise of a dedicated, protective space for firearm cleaning and disassembly immediately piqued my interest. The size seemed ideal for handgun work, and the oil/water-resistant surface promised to keep both my firearms and my workspace pristine.
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long arrived rolled neatly in a simple cardboard tube. The initial impression was positive. The rubber felt substantial, and the printed design appeared crisp and clear. It was lightweight and easy to unroll on my workbench.
I considered the Glock Cleaning Mat by TekMat and the Real Avid Master Gun Cleaning Mat. However, I chose the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long for its compact size and price point. It seemed like a solid, no-frills option for basic cleaning tasks.
My first impression was a pleasant surprise. The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long seemed like a practical and affordable solution to my gun cleaning needs. I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long to the Test
First Use Experience
My first use of the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long involved cleaning my trusty Glock 19 after a day at the range. I used it on my workbench in my garage. The garage, while covered, is still prone to temperature fluctuations and occasional dust.
The mat provided ample space to disassemble the Glock 19. It stayed in place without sliding around. The surface easily wiped clean of any solvent or oil residue. I appreciated the added protection it offered against accidental scratches on both my firearm and the workbench.
There were no major issues after the first use. The mat performed exactly as expected. It provided a stable, protective, and easy-to-clean surface for firearm maintenance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long continues to hold up well. It’s become a permanent fixture on my workbench. I’ve used it for cleaning everything from pistols to AR-15 components.
The durability has been impressive. There are no visible signs of tearing or degradation. The rubber surface remains resistant to oils and solvents. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe with a shop rag is usually all it takes.
Compared to my previous method of using shop towels, the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long is a significant improvement. It provides better protection, stays in place, and offers a dedicated, easy-to-clean surface. It’s a more professional and organized solution.
Breaking Down the Features of TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long
Specifications
- The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long is 17 inches in length. This provides ample space for handgun disassembly and cleaning, as well as some smaller rifle components.
- The mat is constructed from 1/8″ thick vulcanized rubber. This provides a durable and protective surface.
- It features a soft, thermoplastic fiber surface. This protects firearms from scratches and marring.
- The surface is oil and water-resistant. This ensures easy cleanup of spills and prevents damage from cleaning solvents.
These specifications matter because they directly contribute to the mat’s functionality and durability. The rubber construction provides a stable and protective base. The oil and water-resistant surface simplifies maintenance.
Performance & Functionality
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long performs its job admirably. It provides a stable, protective, and easy-to-clean surface for firearm maintenance. The size is ideal for handgun work.
Its strengths include its affordability, durability, and ease of use. A minor improvement would be a slightly thicker rubber base for even more cushioning.
The product meets my expectations and offers great value for the price. It effectively protects my firearms and my workspace.
Design & Ergonomics
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long features a simple, functional design. The materials used are of good quality, especially given the low price point. The weight is light, making it easily portable.
The mat is incredibly user-friendly. There is no learning curve involved. Simply unroll it and start cleaning.
Durability & Maintenance
The vulcanized rubber construction suggests that the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long will last for years with proper care. The oil and water-resistant surface makes maintenance simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth should suffice.
Repair is unlikely to be necessary. The mat is designed for simple, reliable performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available. Its simplicity is part of its appeal.
The mat is compatible with all standard firearm cleaning tools and solvents. There are no limitations in that regard.
Pros and Cons of TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long offers excellent value for the money.
- Durable Construction: The vulcanized rubber and thermoplastic fiber surface are built to last.
- Oil and Water-Resistant Surface: Makes cleaning spills and residue easy.
- Protective Surface: Prevents scratches and marring on firearms and work surfaces.
- Compact Size: Ideal for handgun cleaning and easily stored.
Cons
- Limited Size: Might be too small for cleaning long guns.
- No Integrated Parts Tray: Lacks dedicated compartments for small parts.
Who Should Buy TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long?
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long is perfect for handgun owners, casual shooters, and anyone looking for an affordable and practical cleaning mat. It’s ideal for protecting your workbench and keeping your firearms clean.
Those who primarily clean rifles or need a mat with integrated parts trays should skip this product. They might consider a larger mat or one with more advanced features.
A must-have accessory is a good set of cleaning brushes and solvents. These will complement the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long and make gun cleaning a breeze.
Conclusion on TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long
The TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long is a solid and affordable addition to any gun owner’s cleaning kit. It offers excellent protection, durability, and ease of use. The price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend this mat to anyone looking for a simple and effective cleaning solution. It has become an indispensable part of my cleaning routine.
Grab the TekMat Brandon Cleaning Mat Rubber 17″ Long today and experience the difference a dedicated cleaning surface can make! You won’t regret it.