What to Expect from the Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats
For anyone who spends time working on firearms, particularly those with a classic lineage like the Colt Single Action Army, the right workspace is paramount. I recently acquired the Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats, a specialized mat designed to safeguard both your valuable firearm and your work surface. The need for such a mat arose from a persistent problem: a cluttered workbench where small parts, oils, and solvents threatened to damage my prized possessions and the surfaces beneath them. After a few close calls with a dropped screwdriver near a vintage revolver, I knew a dedicated workspace solution was overdue. My initial impression of this mat was one of sturdy, functional design; the material felt robust and the printing crisp, promising a professional feel. I briefly considered generic vinyl mats, but the specific detailing and armorers focus of this Tekmat model tipped the scales. It offered a sense of immediate order and a promise of protection, a welcome relief from the usual haphazard bench setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for this armorers mat were my personal workshop and my dedicated reloading bench. I subjected it to the typical rigors of firearm maintenance: field stripping a revolver, cleaning components, and meticulously reassembling. The mat performed admirably, providing a stable platform for even the smallest pins and springs. Exposure to common gun cleaning solvents and light machine oil showed no adverse effects; the liquids beaded up rather than soaking in, making cleanup straightforward. There was no noticeable sliding or shifting, even when I intentionally applied a bit of pressure while manipulating parts. I was pleasantly surprised by how intuitive its use was; no extensive setup or learning curve, just unroll and get to work.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, this mat has proven to be a reliable workhorse. It’s become an indispensable part of my firearm maintenance routine, protecting my workbench from scratches and preventing crucial small parts from rolling away. The 1/8in vulcanized rubber backing has shown no signs of cracking or losing its grip, and the thermoplastic fiber surface remains intact, free from significant wear despite repeated contact with tools and firearm components. Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth or a bit of degreaser, and it rolls up neatly for storage, taking up minimal space. Compared to the generic mousepads or old towels I used previously, this mat represents a significant upgrade in both protection and professionalism.
Breaking Down the Features of Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats
Specifications
The Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats boast a solid set of specifications designed for the firearm enthusiast. Its 11 x 17 inch dimensions offer ample real estate for detailed work on most handguns, including larger models like the Colt SA Army. The 0.125 inch (1/8 inch) thickness provides a substantial protective buffer, crucial for preventing scratches to both firearms and delicate work surfaces. The construction features a cloth-topped neoprene surface, which is noted for its water-resistant, fade-proof, and oil-resistant properties, attributed to the dye-sublimation printing process. This ensures the printed graphics, like the detailed Colt SA Army diagrams often found on such mats, remain vibrant and informative over time. The vulcanized rubber backing is specifically engineered to prevent sliding, ensuring the mat stays put during intricate tasks. This combination of materials creates a durable, functional, and protective workspace.
Performance & Functionality
Functionally, this Tekmat mat excels at its primary job: creating a safe and organized environment for firearm maintenance. The thermoplastic fiber surface offers a gentle cushion that prevents firearms from being scratched, a critical feature when dealing with blued finishes or polished surfaces. Its absorbency for cleaning solvents is adequate, preventing them from immediately seeping through to your bench. The sturdy construction means that even when disassembling complex mechanisms, smaller parts like springs and detents tend to stay put rather than skittering across a hard surface. The mat’s ability to withstand repeated cleaning and exposure to various gun oils and solvents without degrading is a significant performance strength. It effectively creates a contained workspace, minimizing the risk of lost or damaged components during maintenance or cleaning.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats is both practical and aesthetically pleasing for an armorers tool. The black color provides a neutral backdrop that makes small parts easily visible, a smart choice for detailed work. The 11inx17in size offers a generous working area, allowing for complete disassembly and reassembly without feeling cramped. While specific graphic details can vary on Tekmat models, the implication for this Colt SA Army specific mat is that it likely features relevant schematics or historical information, adding an educational element. The 0.125 inch thickness contributes to a pleasant tactile feel underhand, providing just enough give to be comfortable during extended work sessions without feeling mushy or unstable. The material itself feels durable and substantial, giving confidence in its protective capabilities.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, the Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats are built to last for the discerning firearm owner. The cloth-topped neoprene construction is inherently resistant to abrasion and tearing, common issues with lesser mats. The dye-sublimation printing is a significant factor in its long-term resilience, as the ink is impregnated into the fibers, making it fade-proof and resistant to scratches from tools and firearm parts. Maintenance is refreshingly simple; most common gun cleaning fluids, oils, and even light grease can be wiped away with a soft cloth and a mild cleaner, or even just soap and water. The water-resistant nature means spills won’t immediately damage the mat or the underlying surface. There are no obvious wear points that would suggest premature failure, pointing towards a long service life.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular listing focuses on the Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats as a standalone item, so there are no included accessories or explicit customization options for the mat itself. However, the nature of these mats is that they often feature specific firearm schematics or branding, suggesting Tekmat offers a range of designs catering to different firearm types. While you cannot customize the mat’s core material or size directly, the wide array of designs available from Tekmat serves as a form of customization for enthusiasts looking for a particular aesthetic or informational graphic. For instance, a collector of Colt firearms might specifically seek out the Colt SA Army version for its thematic relevance and potentially detailed diagrams. It is compatible with standard gun cleaning kits and tools, making it a seamless addition to existing maintenance setups.
Pros and Cons of Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats
Pros
- Superior Work Surface Protection: The 0.125 inch vulcanized rubber backing effectively shields workbenches from scratches, oils, and solvents, preserving their finish.
- Firearm Safety: The soft thermoplastic fiber surface prevents firearms, especially delicate blued or polished finishes, from being scratched or damaged during cleaning and disassembly.
- Enhanced Stability: The non-slip rubber backing ensures the mat remains securely in place, preventing it from sliding during intricate work and keeping small parts contained.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Constructed with water-resistant, fade-proof, and oil-resistant dye-sublimation printing, this mat is built to withstand repeated use and exposure to cleaning chemicals.
- Generous Working Area: The 11 x 17 inch dimensions provide ample space for disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling most handguns, promoting an organized workflow.
Cons
- Limited Specificity: While this is the Colt SA Army version, it might not contain diagrams or information relevant to every single firearm an owner possesses, necessitating multiple mats for diverse collections.
- No Built-in Organization: The mat provides a safe surface but lacks integrated compartments or magnetic strips for holding small parts, which some users might prefer for enhanced organization.
- Size Constraint: While 11×17 inches is ample for handguns, larger rifles or more extensive projects might require a bigger mat or additional surface area.
Who Should Buy Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats?
The Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats are an excellent investment for any firearm owner who values the integrity of their firearms and their workspace. This includes hobbyist gunsmiths, collectors of classic firearms like the Colt Single Action Army, and anyone who performs regular cleaning and maintenance on their handguns. It’s particularly suited for those who work on a dedicated bench or table where protection from chemicals and scratches is a concern. Those who prioritize a clean, organized, and professional-looking workspace will also find significant value.
However, individuals who primarily work with very large firearms such as long rifles might find this mat too small for comprehensive disassembly and reassembly. Also, users who need a sterile environment for medical or scientific applications should look elsewhere, as this mat is designed for firearm oils and solvents, not stringent laboratory cleanliness. For optimal use, consider pairing this mat with a good set of cleaning tools and perhaps a small container or tray for organizing small parts, as the mat itself does not offer these organizational features.
Conclusion on Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats
Overall, the Tekmat Armorers 11inx17in Colt SA Army Bench Mats deliver precisely what they promise: a durable, protective, and functional surface for firearm maintenance. The quality of materials, particularly the robust 1/8in vulcanized rubber backing and the resilient cloth-topped neoprene with its oil-resistant printing, justifies its price point exceptionally well. It effectively safeguards both your valuable firearms and your workbench, while the non-slip surface adds a crucial layer of safety and organization to the often messy task of gun cleaning.
For anyone who handles handguns regularly, especially those who appreciate specific branding and potentially informative graphics like those associated with the Colt SA Army, this mat is a highly recommended addition to their toolkit. While it doesn’t include integrated part organizers, its core function of protection and stability is executed flawlessly. If you’re looking to elevate your firearm maintenance routine and ensure your tools and firearms are treated with the respect they deserve, this Tekmat bench mat is a worthy and practical investment.