Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat Review

Is the Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat All Talk?

As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear across diverse environments – from the sterile hum of a lab to the gritty reality of a workshop and the unforgiving expanse of the field – I’ve developed a keen eye for what works and what’s just marketing fluff. My workbench, a carefully curated ecosystem of tools and materials, recently needed an upgrade in its firearm maintenance area. Specifically, I was tired of flimsy cloths and the constant worry of scratching delicate finishes or damaging crucial components. This led me to the Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat, a product that promised a spacious, protective surface for my prized rifles. I’d been eyeing similar mats from other brands, but the specific mention of “Lever Action Series” piqued my interest, suggesting a thoughtful design for a particular firearm type. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of practical utility; the mat felt substantial without being overly bulky, and the color scheme was understated yet functional.

The need for a dedicated, reliable gun mat became acutely apparent after a particularly frustrating session trying to reassemble a vintage lever-action rifle on a standard shop towel. Every tiny screw and spring seemed determined to roll away or get lost amidst the fabric’s folds, and I inadvertently introduced a minor scratch to the polished blued receiver. That experience was the catalyst. I needed a surface that offered both protection for the firearm and organization for the small parts and tools involved in the maintenance process. My search led me to this Midwest Industries offering. I briefly considered generic, unbranded mats found on online marketplaces, but the allure of a product designed by a reputable firearms accessories manufacturer, promising specific features like non-slip textured rubber base and solvent and oil resistance, was too strong to ignore.

Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat to the Test

My primary testing ground for the Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat has been my dedicated firearm maintenance bench, a space that sees regular use for everything from routine cleaning and lubrication to more involved disassembly and reassembly of various rifles and handguns. I specifically chose this mat because of its stated suitability for rifles, which often demand more surface area and robust protection than smaller handguns. The initial setup was effortless; I simply unrolled it onto my existing workbench, and its weight kept it securely in place without any need for adhesives or fasteners.

During my first few weeks of using this mat, I subjected it to a variety of common maintenance tasks. This included applying cleaning solvents, lubricating oils, and even a small amount of gun grease. The mat’s solvent and oil resistant properties were put to the test, and I was pleased to find that spills beaded up, allowing for easy cleanup with a simple wipe of a rag. I also deliberately placed small pins, springs, and screws onto its surface, and the slightly textured fabric did an admirable job of preventing them from skittering across the bench. Its 36″x12″ padded work area proved ample for even longer rifle components, providing a safe haven for parts during field stripping.

Over several months of consistent use, the Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat has proven itself to be a reliable and durable addition to my workshop. There are no visible signs of excessive wear, such as fraying edges, peeling layers, or significant fading of the printed design. The 1/8″ vulcanized rubber construction with its soft heat bonded polyester top layer has held up remarkably well against the occasional bump from tools and the consistent presence of firearms. Cleaning remains a simple affair; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth or a more thorough scrub with a mild degreaser is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous experience with generic shop towels or thin felt mats, this specialized mat offers superior protection and a more organized workspace, effectively mitigating the risks of scratches and lost components.

First Use Experience

I tested this mat primarily on my home gunsmithing bench, a solid wooden surface already equipped with various tools. The mat was immediately placed down for a detailed cleaning and reassembly of a Winchester Model 1894. Its size provided a comfortable expanse for laying out all the parts without feeling cramped.

Performance was notable from the outset; the mat’s texture prevented small parts from rolling away, a common frustration during lever-action rifle maintenance. Even with liberal application of CLP, the liquid did not soak through to the bench, attesting to its non-slip textured rubber base and barrier properties.

Ease of use was absolute; it’s essentially a roll-out surface. There was no assembly or complex setup required, making it intuitive from the very first moment I placed it down.

A minor surprise was how well the printed design, featuring a stylized lever-action rifle graphic, stayed put. It didn’t show any immediate signs of scuffing or wear from tools being placed on or around it.

Extended Use & Reliability

After months of regular use, the mat remains in excellent condition, far exceeding the lifespan of lesser alternatives. I’ve used it on average at least twice a week for various firearm maintenance tasks.

Its durability is evident; there are no tears, delamination, or significant flattening of the padding. The 1/8″ vulcanized rubber base continues to provide excellent grip, and the polyester top surface resists most common gun cleaning chemicals without degrading.

Maintenance is straightforward; a quick spray with an all-purpose cleaner and a wipe with a microfiber cloth is usually all that’s needed. It stores easily by rolling it up or laying it flat.

Compared to previous experiences with basic felt mats, this Midwest Industries model offers a significant upgrade in protection and longevity. It feels like a product designed for repeated, robust use rather than a disposable item.

Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat

The Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat is designed with the firearm enthusiast in mind, offering a practical blend of protection and functionality. Its core promise is a secure and clean workspace, crucial for any level of firearm maintenance. The specifications are straightforward, yet each element plays a vital role in its overall effectiveness.

The spacious 36″x12″ padded work area is one of the mat’s most compelling features. This generous size allows ample room for laying out components of even longer firearms, such as lever-action rifles, without them overlapping or falling off the edge. The padding itself, constructed from 1/8″ vulcanized rubber topped with soft heat bonded polyester, provides a cushioned surface that safeguards delicate firearm finishes from scratches and dings that can easily occur on hard work surfaces.

Specifications

The key technical specification for this gun mat is its dimensions: a generous 36 inches in length and 12 inches in width. This provides a substantial surface area, which is particularly beneficial for larger firearms like rifles, ensuring all parts can be laid out in an organized manner. The manufacturer is Midwest Industries, a known name in firearm accessories, lending a degree of confidence in the product’s design and intent.

The material composition is crucial: it’s constructed from 1/8″ vulcanized rubber for the base, contributing to its non-slip textured rubber base feature, and a soft heat bonded polyester top surface. This combination is designed to protect your firearm from scratches while also being resistant to common workshop chemicals. The color is a practical Black/Blue, which helps to mask stains and dirt, keeping your workspace looking cleaner for longer. The gun type is specified as Rifle, reinforcing its suitability for larger firearms. Finally, it proudly states USA as its Country of Origin.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat performs admirably. Its main job is to provide a safe, non-abrasive, and organized surface for working on firearms, and it excels at this. The non-slip textured rubber base is highly effective, keeping the mat firmly planted on my workbench even when I’m maneuvering a heavy rifle or reaching for tools.

The soft heat bonded polyester surface does a fantastic job of protecting finishes; I’ve laid down polished steel parts and blued receivers without any concern for scratches. Its solvent and oil resistant nature means that common gun cleaning chemicals bead up rather than soaking in, making cleanup quick and preventing permanent stains. However, while excellent for routine maintenance, it’s not intended for heavy-duty machining or tasks involving extreme heat or sharp metal shavings.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat is practical and user-centric. The Black/Blue color scheme is aesthetically pleasing without being flashy, and it effectively hides minor dirt and oil marks, maintaining a professional appearance on the workbench. The 36″x12″ dimensions offer excellent ergonomics for rifle work, providing ample space to spread out components without feeling cluttered.

The 1/8″ vulcanized rubber base feels robust and provides sufficient cushioning. The soft polyester top layer is smooth enough to protect delicate surfaces but has a subtle texture that helps prevent small parts from sliding away. Its flexibility allows it to roll up for storage but it lays flat quickly when unrolled, minimizing any learning curve for use.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a strong suit for this gun mat. The 1/8″ vulcanized rubber is known for its resilience and resistance to abrasion and chemicals. The soft heat bonded polyester top layer is securely attached, showing no signs of peeling or separation even after consistent use involving solvents and oils.

Maintenance is exceptionally easy. Most common gun cleaning fluids, oils, and greases wipe away with a soft cloth and perhaps a mild degreaser. The solvent and oil resistant properties prevent stains from setting in permanently, and the material does not seem to degrade from exposure to typical firearm maintenance products.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat is a standalone product, meaning it does not come with any additional accessories. There are no specific customization options for the mat itself, such as interchangeable inserts or variable sizing. However, its design is intended to complement existing toolkits and organizational systems on a workbench.

It is compatible with a wide range of gun cleaning tools, brushes, and solvents. The printed graphic on the mat is dye sublimation printing, which is designed to resist wear and rubbing off, a nice touch that adds to its longevity and aesthetic appeal.

Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat

Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat?

This gun mat is an excellent choice for any firearm owner who performs their own cleaning, maintenance, or minor repairs, particularly those who own rifles. It’s ideal for home gunsmiths, hobbyists, and anyone looking to protect their firearms and their workspace from the inevitable spills and scratches associated with gun care. The USA manufacturing is also a point of appeal for those who prefer to support domestic products.

Those who require a sterile, medically-approved surface or who work with extremely high-temperature processes would need to look elsewhere. Also, individuals who need intricate organization for hundreds of tiny pins and springs might find this mat a bit too simple, preferring mats with built-in magnetic sections or compartments. For anyone needing a reliable, protective, and easy-to-clean surface for routine rifle maintenance, this Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat is a solid investment.

Conclusion on Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat

The Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat has proven to be a highly functional and durable accessory for any firearm enthusiast. Its generous size, protective padding, and robust, non-slip base make it an invaluable tool for maintaining firearms safely and efficiently. The solvent and oil resistant properties, coupled with the long-lasting dye sublimation printing, ensure both the mat and your workspace remain in good condition over time.

At $37.99, the value proposition is strong, especially considering its USA origin and the quality of materials used. It significantly enhances the gun maintenance experience compared to using makeshift solutions. I would readily recommend this mat to anyone who takes pride in their firearms and their workshop. If you’re looking for a reliable, well-made surface to protect your rifles during cleaning and maintenance, this Midwest Industries Lever Action Series 36×12 Gun Mat is an easy choice and a worthwhile addition to your gear.