The TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned gunsmith and tactical gear aficionado, I’ve seen my fair share of armorer’s benches. Most are a chaotic mess of solvents, springs, and small parts threatening to vanish into the ether. I was seeking a practical solution that offered protection and also added a touch of patriotism to my workspace. That’s when I stumbled upon the TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black.
I was tired of using shop towels that would invariably soak through with cleaning solvents or mar the finish on a newly built AR-15. The promise of a machine-washable, fabric-covered neoprene mat with a bold American flag design was immediately appealing.
Upon receiving the TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black, I was immediately impressed by the vibrant colors and crisp detail of the flag graphic. The neoprene backing felt substantial, promising a non-slip surface, and the fabric top had a smooth, almost luxurious feel. Compared to a simple rubber mat or even a dedicated gun cleaning tray, this TekMat offered a blend of functionality and aesthetics that the others simply couldn’t match. It’s a far cry from the generic black rubber mats I’ve used in the past. My initial impression was excitement; this wasn’t just a tool, it was a statement piece for my workbench.
Real-World Testing: Putting **TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black** to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved a complete teardown and cleaning of my trusty Glock 19 after a particularly dusty range day. I laid the TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black on my workbench, and the non-slip backing held it securely in place. The 11″ x 17″ size proved to be perfect for working on a handgun, providing ample space without overwhelming my bench.
I intentionally dripped solvent and oil onto the mat to see how it would handle the spills. The fabric surface absorbed some of the liquid, preventing it from spreading, while the neoprene backing kept it from soaking through to my workbench. Cleanup was a breeze – a quick wipe with a clean cloth removed the majority of the residue. There was no learning curve; it was ready to use right out of the package.
<h3>Extended Use & Reliability</h3>After several months of regular use, the TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black has become an indispensable part of my gun maintenance routine. It has seen everything from AR-15 builds to shotgun cleanings. The fabric surface has shown no signs of wear, and the colors remain vibrant despite repeated exposure to solvents and oils.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. I’ve thrown it in the washing machine several times (on a cold, gentle cycle) and let it air dry, and it comes out looking as good as new. Compared to the disposable shop towels I used previously, this mat has saved me a considerable amount of money and reduced waste. It outperforms those old methods by a mile.
Breaking Down the Features of **TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black**
Specifications
The TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black measures 11 inches by 17 inches. This provides ample workspace for handguns and smaller firearm components.
It’s constructed from fabric covered neoprene. This combination provides a durable, absorbent, and non-slip surface.
The mat features a printed Old Glory flag graphic. This adds a patriotic touch to any workspace.
TekMat designed it to be machine washable. This makes cleaning and maintenance incredibly easy.
Performance & Functionality
The TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black performs its job admirably. It protects the firearm’s finish from scratches and dings during cleaning or maintenance. The fabric surface effectively absorbs spills, preventing them from spreading and damaging the work surface. The non-slip neoprene backing keeps the mat securely in place, preventing it from sliding around. Its functionality definitely meets my expectations.
The primary strength of the TekMat is its ability to protect both the firearm and the workspace. One area for improvement could be offering a larger size for working on long guns.
<h3>Design & Ergonomics</h3>The build quality of the TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black is excellent. The materials feel durable and well-constructed, and the seams are clean and secure. The weight is substantial enough to keep the mat in place without feeling bulky or cumbersome. It feels comfortable enough to work on for extended periods.
The mat is incredibly user-friendly; there is no learning curve whatsoever. It’s simply a matter of laying it on the workbench and getting to work.
<h3>Durability & Maintenance</h3>Based on my experience, I expect the TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black to last for many years with proper care. The fabric surface is resistant to wear and tear, and the neoprene backing is impervious to most solvents and oils.
Maintaining the mat is incredibly easy. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient for removing minor spills and residue. For more thorough cleaning, it can be machine washed and air-dried.
<h3>Accessories and Customization Options</h3>The TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black does not come with any additional accessories, nor does it offer any customization options beyond the pre-printed flag graphic.
However, its simple and functional design makes it compatible with virtually any gun cleaning or maintenance accessory.
Pros and Cons of **TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black**
Pros
- Protects firearm finish: Prevents scratches and dings during cleaning and maintenance.
- Absorbent fabric surface: Soaks up spills and prevents them from spreading.
- Non-slip neoprene backing: Keeps the mat securely in place.
- Machine washable: Easy to clean and maintain.
- Patriotic design: Adds a touch of style to any workspace.
Cons
- Limited size: The 11″ x 17″ size may be too small for working on long guns.
- No included accessories: Does not come with any cleaning supplies or tools.
Who Should Buy **TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black**?
- Perfect for: Gun owners, gunsmiths, hobbyists, and anyone who regularly cleans or maintains firearms. This is especially useful for those who work on handguns and smaller firearm components.
- Who should skip this product? Those who primarily work on long guns and require a larger work surface might find the 11″ x 17″ size too restrictive.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? Gun cleaning solvent, gun oil, cleaning brushes, and other standard gun cleaning supplies.
Conclusion on **TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black**
The TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black is an excellent addition to any gun owner’s workbench. It provides a durable, absorbent, and non-slip surface for cleaning and maintaining firearms, all while adding a touch of patriotic flair.
Given its functionality, durability, and ease of maintenance, the price is well justified.
I would highly recommend the TekMat Old Glory Flag Armorer’s Bench Mat 11″x17″ Fabric/Neoprene Black to anyone looking for a reliable and stylish way to protect their firearms and workspace. Upgrade your workbench today and show your American pride!
