Here’s What I Think of the Tekmat Armorers Bench Mat 11″x17″ Cz P-07/09 Pistol
Working with firearms, especially for maintenance and customization, demands a clean, organized, and protective workspace. My previous setup often involved a makeshift arrangement of old towels and newspapers, which were messy, inefficient, and frankly, a bit of a hazard for delicate parts. This is precisely why I found myself looking for a dedicated armorer’s mat, specifically one tailored for my CZ P-07/09 pistols. After a bit of searching, I stumbled upon the Tekmat Armorers Bench Mat 11″x17″ Cz P-07/09 Pistol. It promised a dedicated surface with specific firearm diagrams, a feature I found quite intriguing.
My need for a better workbench solution was born from a series of frustrating incidents. Dropping small springs, losing track of pins on a cluttered surface, and the constant fear of scratching my pistol’s finish were becoming the norm. I needed something that would contain small parts, protect the firearm, and offer a visual guide to the internals. While I considered generic neoprene mats or even just a larger cutting board, the allure of a specifically designed mat, complete with an exploded view of my favored pistol, was too strong to ignore.
Upon unboxing the Tekmat, my first impression was one of practical utility. The mat felt substantial, with a good weight to it that suggested it wouldn’t slide around easily. The printed diagram was crisp and clear, immediately setting it apart from any ad-hoc solution I’d used before. It offered a tangible sense of professionalism to my otherwise amateur gunsmithing endeavors, and the potential for improved organization was evident.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tekmat Armorers Bench Mat 11″x17″ Cz P-07/09 Pistol to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial foray with the Tekmat was during a routine cleaning and lubrication session for my CZ P-07. I spread it out on my workbench in the garage, a space that, while usually organized for my hobbies, can get a bit dusty. The mat immediately provided a defined area, a clear “zone” for all the pistol’s components. Disassembling the pistol, I found that the smaller parts – pins, springs, and the magazine base plate – stayed put surprisingly well on its surface.
The material offered a good balance between grip and allowing for easy repositioning of the firearm itself. I didn’t experience the frustrating tendency of the pistol to slide around as I often did with my old towel setup. The printed diagram was also incredibly helpful, especially when reassembling. Even though I’m familiar with the P-07, having the exploded view readily available served as a fantastic quick reference, confirming the placement of each component. No major surprises, just a smooth, controlled experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several weeks, this armorer’s mat became an indispensable part of my bench. It’s seen action with multiple firearms, including my CZ P-09, and has handled the occasional spill of gun oil or cleaning solvent with aplomb. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth or a run through the washing machine (yes, I tested its machine washable claim) has kept it looking and performing like new.
Durability hasn’t been an issue. The neoprene backing has maintained its grip, and the printed diagram remains vivid, showing no signs of fading or wear despite repeated exposure to solvents and mechanical contact. Compared to the fabric mats I’ve used in the past that frayed or stained permanently, this mat has proven its EPDM rubber backing and neoprene construction to be significantly more robust. Storage is also a breeze; it rolls up neatly, taking up minimal space.
Breaking Down the Features of Tekmat Armorers Bench Mat 11″x17″ Cz P-07/09 Pistol
Specifications
The Tekmat Armorers Bench Mat 11″x17″ Cz P-07/09 Pistol measures in at a compact but functional 0.35 x 11.20 x 16.95 inches, with a height of 0.3500 inches. This size is ideal for benchtop work, providing enough real estate for most pistol disassembly and reassembly without overwhelming a smaller workspace. The primary material is a durable neoprene surface, backed by the aforementioned EPDM rubber.
This combination is key to its performance. The neoprene top provides a soft yet firm surface that protects both the firearm and the workbench from scratches and impacts, while the rubber backing ensures the mat stays put, a crucial element when handling small, easily lost parts. The mat is also specified as machine washable, a significant convenience for maintaining cleanliness. The Master pack size of 50 units suggests this is geared towards retailers or professional gunsmiths, but for individual purchase, you get one highly functional mat.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary role as a work surface for firearm maintenance, this mat excels. It effectively contains small parts, preventing them from rolling off the bench or disappearing into crevices. The surface offers just enough friction to keep components in place, yet it’s smooth enough to allow for easy manipulation and inspection of parts.
The biggest functional advantage is the integration of the CZ P-07/09 pistol’s exploded diagram. This isn’t just decorative; it serves as a practical guide for disassembly and reassembly, particularly useful for those less familiar with the platform or when working on a complex variation. It undeniably speeds up the process and reduces the chance of errors. Its main weakness, if one could call it that, is its size; while perfect for pistols, it might feel a bit small for larger rifle components.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward yet highly effective. The 11″x17″ dimensions are thoughtfully chosen for pistol work, offering a clear work area. The print quality of the exploded diagram is excellent, with sharp lines and clearly labeled parts, making it easy to identify each component.
Ergonomically, it’s designed for bench use. It lies flat and doesn’t shift, which contributes to a stable and comfortable working experience. There’s no real “learning curve” to using the mat itself; its utility is immediate and intuitive. The material feels good underhand, neither too slick nor too sticky, contributing to a positive tactile feedback during manipulation of parts.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my extended use, this mat appears to be built for longevity. The neoprene and EPDM rubber construction is inherently resistant to abrasion and chemical exposure, common in gun cleaning environments. I’ve yet to see any signs of fraying, peeling, or degradation of the printed diagram.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. For minor spills, a damp cloth is usually sufficient. For more significant messes, tossing it into a washing machine is incredibly convenient and effective at restoring its pristine condition. There’s nothing particularly tricky to watch out for, making it a low-maintenance addition to any workbench.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular Tekmat Armorers Bench Mat 11″x17″ Cz P-07/09 Pistol comes as a single unit, with no additional accessories included in the basic package. Its primary customization, if you can call it that, is the specific firearm diagram printed on it. This mat is designed specifically for the CZ P-07/09, offering a targeted solution rather than a universal one.
While it doesn’t come with accessories, its design makes it compatible with all standard gunsmithing tools and cleaning supplies you’d typically use. The mat itself is the feature, providing a protective and informative surface for whatever tools you bring to the task.
Pros and Cons of Tekmat Armorers Bench Mat 11″x17″ Cz P-07/09 Pistol
Pros
- Clearly printed exploded diagram of the CZ P-07/09 pistol, aiding in assembly and disassembly.
- Durable construction using neoprene and EPDM rubber for longevity and resistance to chemicals.
- Non-slip backing keeps the mat securely in place on the workbench, preventing unwanted movement.
- Machine washable for easy and convenient cleaning after use.
- Compact 11″x17″ size is ideal for pistol work, fitting well on most benchtops.
Cons
- Limited size may be insufficient for larger firearm components like rifle uppers or full-sized shotgun parts.
- Specific firearm model means it’s not a universal solution if you work on a wide variety of guns.
- $13.99 price point is reasonable, but for those on an extremely tight budget, other generic options might seem more appealing initially.
Who Should Buy Tekmat Armorers Bench Mat 11″x17″ Cz P-07/09 Pistol?
This mat is an excellent choice for any CZ P-07 or P-09 owner who performs their own cleaning, maintenance, or minor modifications. It’s particularly beneficial for new owners still learning the ins and outs of their firearm, as the included diagram provides invaluable visual guidance. Even experienced gunsmiths will appreciate the organized and protected workspace it offers.
Those who should probably skip this specific model are individuals who work on a very wide array of firearms, including many different rifle platforms, as the size and specific diagram might not be ideal. Someone looking for a purely generic workbench mat might also find other options more appealing, though they would miss out on the built-in visual reference. For enhancing the P-07/09 maintenance experience, consider picking up a good set of gunsmithing screwdrivers and a quality cleaning solvent to complement the mat.
Conclusion on Tekmat Armorers Bench Mat 11″x17″ Cz P-07/09 Pistol
The Tekmat Armorers Bench Mat 11″x17″ Cz P-07/09 Pistol offers exceptional value for its price. At just $13.99, it delivers a significant upgrade to any workbench dedicated to CZ pistols. The combination of a durable, protective surface and a detailed exploded diagram creates a functional and educational tool that simplifies firearm maintenance.
Its performance in protecting components and organizing workspace is solid, and the ease of cleaning is a major plus. I would absolutely recommend this mat to anyone who owns a CZ P-07 or P-09 and wants to improve their gunsmithing experience. It’s a small investment that pays dividends in reduced frustration and a cleaner, more efficient workflow.