Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo Review

First Impressions of Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo

The Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo promises to be a versatile piece of kit for any serious shooter, blending the protection of a gun case with the functionality of a shooting mat. Ulfhednar is a name synonymous with quality, particularly among European shooting circles, so I was eager to see how this “Field”-line offering would stack up, especially given its more accessible price point. My initial thought was could Ulfhednar offer a quality product without the premium Cordura material?

I’ve long struggled with the hassle of carrying a separate gun case and shooting mat to the range. It always felt like overkill, especially for quick practice sessions. The promise of a combined unit that streamlined my gear and offered backpack-style carry was extremely appealing. I wanted to see if the Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo could simplify my range trips without sacrificing protection or comfort.

Upon unboxing, the case feels robust, although the UH-Tex material (more on that later) lacks the unmistakable ruggedness of Cordura. The padding seems generous, and the stitching appears solid, indicating a decent level of build quality. It certainly felt lighter than my current gun case and rolled-up shooting mat combined, a definite plus for portability. While I haven’t directly tested similar combos, most competitors appear to skimp on padding or offer flimsy construction, so I’m hoping this Ulfhednar product strikes a better balance. My initial excitement is tempered by a hint of caution; the UH-Tex will need to prove its worth through real-world abuse.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was slightly damp, with a light drizzle threatening to turn into a full-blown shower. Unfolding the case into a shooting mat was quick and easy, providing a much cleaner and drier surface than the muddy ground.

The rubberized elbow sections offered a comfortable and stable shooting platform. However, the bipod mat proved immediately useful, preventing my rifle’s bipod from sinking into the soft earth. The backpack straps made the trek from my car to the firing line significantly easier than lugging my usual combination of gear. I did notice that the mat surface, while water resistant, wasn’t entirely waterproof, something to keep in mind for wetter climates.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo has held up reasonably well, but shows some wear. The UH-Tex material hasn’t ripped or torn, but shows some abrasion in key spots after being dragged over gravel. I’ve also found that mud and dirt tend to cling to the fabric more readily than they would to Cordura.

Cleaning is relatively straightforward with a damp cloth, although stubborn stains require a bit more effort. Compared to my previous experiences with dedicated Cordura gun cases, the Ulfhednar requires slightly more frequent cleaning to maintain its appearance. Ultimately, it performs its core function well, but the long-term durability of the UH-Tex remains a question mark.

Breaking Down the Features of Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo

Specifications

The Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo boasts the following specifications: it is designed by Ulfhednar, and comes in Black. It is 47.24 inches/120 cm in Length, 11.81 inches/30cm in width, and 2.76 inches/7cm in depth. When unfolded, the shooting mat measures 70.8 inches/180 cm long and 35 inches/90 cm wide. Its weight is 6.5 lbs/2.95 kg, and the recommended load for rifle/gear is 10kg. The key here is understanding how these measurements translate to real-world use and the type of firearms it can accommodate.

These specifications are important because they dictate the size and type of rifle that can comfortably fit inside. The length is suitable for most standard sporting rifles, but longer precision rifles might be a tight squeeze. The weight and folded dimensions affect portability, and the unfolded dimensions determine the size and comfort of the shooting mat.

Performance & Functionality

The Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo performs its primary functions adequately. As a gun case, it offers sufficient padding to protect your rifle from bumps and scratches during transport. The interior Velcro straps effectively secure the rifle, preventing it from shifting around inside the case.

As a shooting mat, it provides a comfortable and stable platform for prone shooting, thanks to the rubberized elbow sections and included bipod mat. However, the UH-Tex material is not as water-resistant as I’d prefer, and the mat can become slippery when wet. The lockable YKK zippers are a nice touch, providing added security and peace of mind. Overall, the performance is satisfactory, but not exceptional. It meets expectations for a mid-range product, but there are areas for improvement.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo is well thought out, balancing functionality and portability. The backpack straps are fully adjustable and comfortable, even with a fully loaded rifle inside. The lightweight construction makes it easy to carry for extended periods.

The conversion from gun case to shooting mat is simple and intuitive, requiring only a few seconds. However, the UH-Tex material lacks the premium feel of Cordura, and the overall aesthetic is somewhat utilitarian. There’s no real learning curve, and the design is user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The long-term durability of the Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo is my biggest concern. The UH-Tex material, while seemingly robust, is not as abrasion-resistant as Cordura. I anticipate that with regular use, the fabric will eventually show signs of wear and tear, particularly in high-stress areas.

Maintenance is relatively easy, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. However, the material’s tendency to attract dirt and stains means that more frequent cleaning is necessary to maintain its appearance. It is difficult to ascertain how long it will last, but I estimate that it will provide several years of reliable service with proper care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo comes with a few useful accessories, including a bipod mat, dedicated cleaning rod holder, bullet loops, and a clear plastic pocket for a phone or data sheets. These additions enhance the overall functionality of the product and provide added convenience for shooters. The interior Velcro rifle straps are essential for securing your firearm, and the lockable main zipper adds a layer of security.

While there are no specific Ulfhednar-branded customization options, the case is compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as MOLLE pouches for attaching additional gear. The ID pocket is a welcome addition, allowing you to easily identify your case.

Pros and Cons of Ulfhednar Gun Case/Shooting Mat w/Backpack Straps Combo