TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT Review

The TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT Made a Bold First Impression

As a seasoned gunsmith and tactical gear enthusiast, I’ve spent years meticulously cleaning and maintaining firearms. I’ve seen my share of makeshift cleaning stations – old towels, repurposed cardboard boxes, and the occasional kitchen counter much to my wife’s dismay. The TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT promised a dedicated, organized workspace and frankly, after years of chasing down rogue springs, it was time to invest in a proper cleaning solution.

My main motivation was simple: preventing small parts from disappearing into the abyss of my garage. I also wanted a surface that wouldn’t scratch the finish of my prized 1911 pistols. The advertised parts diagram was also enticing.

Upon receiving the TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT, I was immediately impressed with its size. The rolled-up mat was compact and easily fit into my range bag. Unrolling it revealed a generously sized workspace, noticeably larger than some of the cheaper mats I’ve seen at gun shows.

I considered other options, like the Hoppe’s Gun Cleaning Mat or the Real Avid Master Cleaning Station. However, the TIPTON offering stood out due to its detailed 1911 exploded view and the promise of superior oil absorption at a budget-friendly price point of $14.49.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The mat felt substantial, the printing was clear, and the overall design exuded quality. I was eager to put it to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT during a routine cleaning of my Colt Government Model 1911 after a day at the range. The range was relatively dry, but the 1911 was definitely showing signs of carbon buildup. Setting up the mat on my workbench was a breeze.

The TIPTON MAT’s padded neoprene surface immediately proved its worth. It prevented any accidental scratches or dings to my 1911’s blued finish. The exploded diagram proved to be invaluable, especially when reassembling the sear and disconnector.

The TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT absorbed the gun oil and solvent effectively. There were no messy puddles or drips running onto my workbench. I experienced no issues during the initial cleaning.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT has held up remarkably well. I typically clean my firearms at least twice a month, and the mat shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The printing is still crisp and clear, even after repeated exposure to solvents.

I’ve noticed only slight fading of the ink in areas where I frequently use bore cleaner. Even with this slight change, the diagram remains perfectly legible. The neoprene material has maintained its padding and continues to protect my firearms from scratches.

Cleaning the mat is surprisingly easy. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and a mild detergent. The TIPTON MAT continues to outperform the old towel and cardboard box setup I used previously.

Breaking Down the Features of TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT

Specifications

• Material: Padded neoprene. This provides a cushioned surface that protects firearm finishes and absorbs oils and solvents.
• Print: Screen-printed exploded view of a 1911 pistol. The diagram is invaluable for easy part identification during disassembly and reassembly.
• Size: (Dimensions not explicitly stated, but generously sized). The size provides ample workspace for firearm maintenance.
• Portability: Rolls up for easy storage and transport. This makes it convenient to take to the range or a friend’s house.
• Application: Designed for cleaning and disassembling 1911-style pistols. This offers a dedicated workspace.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the functionality and user experience. The neoprene material provides a protective and absorbent surface. The exploded diagram simplifies maintenance.

Performance & Functionality

The TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a safe, clean, and organized workspace for cleaning and maintaining 1911 pistols. The exploded diagram is a fantastic reference tool, especially for those less familiar with the intricate workings of the 1911 platform.

The strength is the mat’s ability to keep small parts organized and prevent them from getting lost. An area that could be improved might be adding magnetic strips for holding pins and other small metal parts. It meets and exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The TIPTON MAT’s design is simple yet effective. The neoprene material is durable and provides a comfortable, non-slip surface. The weight is light enough for easy transport.

The layout of the exploded diagram is clear and concise. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT is built to last. The neoprene material is resistant to most common gun solvents and oils. The mat is also easy to clean, ensuring it remains in good condition for years to come.

Minimal maintenance is required. A quick wipe-down after each use is sufficient to keep it clean.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT doesn’t come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with any standard gun cleaning tools and solvents. No customization options are available, but the mat’s primary function is to provide a dedicated workspace.

Pros and Cons of TIPTON 558-680 1911 MAINTENANCE MAT