First Thoughts on the TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM
The TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM isn’t just another cleaning mat; it’s a statement piece. TekMat has carved a niche in the gun cleaning world by offering practical surfaces emblazoned with eye-catching designs. This particular mat, with its bold declaration of “Beer & Guns & Bacon & Freedom,” speaks to a certain, unapologetically American, spirit.
I needed a new cleaning mat. My old one was stained, ripped, and frankly, depressing to look at. The TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM seemed like the perfect blend of utility and personality to inject some much-needed humor into my cleaning routine.
Upon unboxing (or rather, un-tubing), the first thing I noticed was the vibrancy of the print. The white lettering pops against the black background, and the overall design is undeniably fun. It’s lightweight and feels durable enough for basic cleaning tasks.
I considered a few other mats. A solid color mat from a less “loud” manufacturer, and one with a bore diagram of an AR-15. I chose the TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM because, honestly, it made me laugh. It’s a conversation starter and a reminder that even cleaning firearms can be enjoyable.
My initial impression was positive, and I was excited to see how it would hold up to regular use. I was also slightly concerned the loud design would wear off quickly, but only time would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM during a complete teardown and cleaning of my Glock 19 after a range day. The range had been unusually dusty, so I wanted to give the pistol a thorough cleaning. The mat provided a defined space to work within.
The thermoplastic surface proved resistant to the solvents I used, and the small size was manageable on my workbench. The mat’s design provided a much-needed chuckle when disassembling a particularly stubborn roll pin. It did its job flawlessly, and there were no issues with the cleaning agents damaging the graphic print.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use (roughly twice a month), the TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of tearing or significant wear. The print hasn’t faded despite repeated exposure to various gun cleaning solvents.
The mat cleans easily with a damp cloth and mild soap. I’ve even used degreaser on it a couple of times when things got particularly messy. Compared to my previous mat, this one is far easier to keep looking presentable.
Breaking Down the Features of TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM
Specifications
- The TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM is an Original Mat manufactured by TekMat. This ensures a degree of quality.
- Its dimensions are 11″x17″ with a 1/8″ thickness, providing a compact yet sufficient workspace. This makes it suitable for smaller workbenches or for those who prefer a more minimalist setup.
- The surface is made of a thermoplastic material, offering protection against scratches from gun parts. It also resists the effects of common gun cleaning solvents.
- The mat features a black background with white lettering displaying the phrase “Beer & Guns & Bacon & Freedom.” This makes it a standout piece with a unique personality.
- It comes in tube packaging for easy storage and transportation. This is surprisingly useful if you need to take your cleaning kit to the range.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the mat’s functionality and durability. The thermoplastic surface provides a solvent-resistant and scratch-proof area for cleaning and maintaining firearms. The 11″x17″ size is ideal for pistols and smaller rifles, offering enough space without being cumbersome.
Performance & Functionality
The TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM performs its job admirably. It provides a protected surface for disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling firearms. The thermoplastic material is resistant to most common gun cleaning solvents, preventing damage to the workbench below.
The mat’s small size is both a strength and a weakness. It’s easy to store and transport, but it may be too small for larger firearms like AR-15s or shotguns. Overall, it meets expectations for a basic cleaning mat.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM is good for its price point. The thermoplastic material is durable and the print is well-applied. The mat is lightweight and easy to roll up for storage.
The design is inherently user-friendly; there’s no learning curve. You simply unroll it and start cleaning.
Durability & Maintenance
The TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM is reasonably durable. It is designed for cleaning and protecting firearms from scratches. Maintenance is simple, requiring only a wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it is primarily a cleaning surface. However, it pairs well with any standard gun cleaning kit. There are no customization options available for the mat itself, other than choosing a different design from TekMat’s extensive catalog.
Pros and Cons of TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM
Pros
- Provides a protective, solvent-resistant surface for cleaning firearms.
- The “Beer & Guns & Bacon & Freedom” design adds a touch of humor to gun maintenance.
- The compact 11″x17″ size is ideal for smaller workbenches and easy storage.
- The price is very affordable, making it an excellent value.
- Easy to clean and maintain with basic household products.
Cons
- The 11″x17″ size may be too small for larger firearms.
- The loud design might not appeal to everyone.
Who Should Buy TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM?
The TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM is perfect for casual shooters, pistol owners, and anyone who appreciates a bit of humor in their gun cleaning routine. It’s an excellent choice for beginners who need a basic, affordable cleaning mat. It is also great for anyone looking for a conversation starter in their gun room or range bag.
Those who prefer a more serious or professional-looking cleaning surface should probably skip this product. Also, those who regularly work on large rifles or shotguns might find the 11″x17″ size too restrictive.
A good gun cleaning kit and some quality gun oil are must-have accessories to pair with this mat.
Conclusion on TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM
The TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM is more than just a cleaning mat; it’s a statement. For a mere $8.49, it provides a functional and entertaining surface for gun maintenance. The thermoplastic material is durable and solvent-resistant, while the bold design adds a touch of personality to an otherwise mundane task.
The price is absolutely justified. It’s a worthwhile investment to protect your workbench and add some fun to your cleaning routine.
I would absolutely recommend the TEKMAT MAT BEER/GUNS/BACON & FREEDOM to anyone looking for an affordable and humorous cleaning mat. Buy it, unroll it, and enjoy your beer, guns, bacon, and freedom while keeping your firearms clean and well-maintained!