Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat, 27x85in Review

Does the Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat Deliver?

As someone who’s spent over a decade navigating diverse environments – from dusty workshops to sterile labs and rugged field locations – I’ve developed a keen eye for gear that truly performs. The Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat, 27x85in entered my life not out of a desire for luxury, but out of necessity. A recent stretch of range days, spent frequently on less-than-ideal surfaces, highlighted a clear need for better ground insulation and a more stable shooting platform. My usual approach of improvising with whatever scraps I could find was becoming tiresome and, frankly, counterproductive. I considered a few generic, no-name mats online, but their vague descriptions and lack of specific features made me hesitant. Upon unboxing this Bob Allen mat, my first impression was one of practical utility; it felt robust, unpretentious, and ready for action. It offered an immediate sense of relief, a tangible solution to a recurring annoyance.

Real-World Testing: Putting the Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test for this shooting mat was during a weekend of extended target practice at a local outdoor range. The surface there is primarily compacted gravel and occasional patches of bare earth, often damp from morning dew or recent rain. Unrolling the Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat, 27x85in was straightforward; its ample 27×85 inch dimensions provided a generous footprint. It immediately created a noticeable barrier between myself and the cold, uneven ground. The texture felt reassuringly grippy, and I experienced no unwanted slippage as I shifted positions.

The mat handled the conditions admirably. Light moisture from the ground didn’t seem to soak through, maintaining a dry platform for my gear and myself. Throughout a full day of shooting, with numerous prone and kneeling sessions, the mat remained stable and comfortable. It was significantly better than lying directly on the ground or trying to arrange extra jackets. My only minor surprise was the initial scent from the foam, a common characteristic of such materials, which I expected to dissipate.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks of regular use have followed that initial outing, with several more range days and even a practice session in a more rudimentary field setting. The mat has proven itself to be a reliable piece of equipment. Daily tasks like rolling it up after use, wiping it down, and securing it for transport have become routine.

Durability has been excellent so far. Despite being rolled and unrolled countless times, and enduring exposure to dirt, sand, and even a light dusting of snow, there are no signs of significant wear. The stitching remains intact, and the fabric shows no fraying. It has maintained its cushioning, providing consistent comfort. Maintenance is refreshingly simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth usually suffices to remove most dirt and debris. Unlike some older mats I’ve used that developed stiff spots or began to crack with age, this mat remains flexible. It’s certainly outperformed budget options I’ve tried in the past, which often start to degrade after just a few uses, and it feels competitive with more specialized, higher-priced alternatives in terms of core functionality.

Breaking Down the Features of the Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat

Specifications

The Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat, 27x85in comes in a generous 27-inch by 85-inch size, offering substantial coverage. Its construction features a water-resistant coated poly fabric for the main body, reinforced with poly webbing for durability. Underneath, a non-slip rubberized surface is designed to keep it firmly in place, even on slick surfaces. The mat is padded with closed cell foam, providing insulation and comfort. When not in use, it rolls up for easy storage and carry, typically secured by adjustable buckles and often featuring a removable strap.

These specifications translate directly into practical benefits. The large dimensions ensure ample space for prone shooting, storing equipment, and a comfortable buffer against the elements. The water-resistant coating is crucial for outdoor use, preventing the mat from becoming a soggy mess. The non-slip rubberized surface is paramount for safety and consistency, preventing the mat from shifting during a critical shot. The closed cell foam is the key to comfort, insulating against cold or hard ground and providing a more pleasant shooting experience, especially during long sessions. The roll-up design with buckles makes it exceptionally convenient for transport, a critical factor for any piece of gear.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Bob Allen shooting mat performs exceptionally well. It successfully creates a stable and comfortable shooting platform, significantly reducing the impact of rough or cold terrain. The non-slip rubberized surface proved highly effective on both dry concrete and damp grass, keeping the mat securely in place. This stability is essential for maintaining a consistent natural point of aim, which is a significant advantage for accuracy.

The mat’s strength lies in its straightforward effectiveness. It excels at its core purpose: providing a better shooting surface. Its water-resistant properties also held up, keeping me dry during a session on dew-laden ground. It meets, and in many aspects exceeds, expectations for a mat in its price bracket. While it doesn’t offer advanced features like integrated bipod supports found on much more expensive, specialized mats, its reliable performance in its intended role is undeniable.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this shooting mat is purely functional, prioritizing utility over aesthetics. The tan color is understated and blends well in outdoor environments. The use of poly webbing for the straps and roll-up mechanism speaks to its durability. The material feels tough and capable of withstanding outdoor abuse.

Ergonomically, it’s designed for ease of deployment and storage. Rolling it up and securing it with the adjustable buckles is quick and efficient, taking mere seconds. The removable shoulder strap, mentioned in user feedback, is a brilliant addition, making it comfortable to carry to and from the range. There’s no real learning curve; it’s intuitive from the moment you unroll it. The only minor point, as noted by some users, is the initial scent from the foam, but this is a common characteristic and not a design flaw.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the materials used, the Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat is built for longevity. For typical range use or tactical applications, it should last for many seasons. The poly fabric is robust, and the poly webbing provides strong anchor points for the securing straps.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick brush or wipe down is usually sufficient to keep it clean. Its water-resistant nature means spills and light moisture won’t penetrate deeply, making it easy to dry out if it does get wet. There are no complex parts to maintain or replace, which is a huge plus for field gear. Potential failure points might include the buckles or the stitching on the straps over very extended, harsh use, but these are common wear points on many rolled mats and appear to be well-constructed here.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat, 27x85in is designed as a self-contained unit, and its primary “accessory” is its integrated removable shoulder strap, which significantly enhances portability. It also features adjustable buckles for secure rolling and storage, making it tidy and compact for transport.

While the mat itself doesn’t lend itself to significant customization in the traditional sense, its broad dimensions and stable platform can be augmented by the user’s existing gear. For instance, adding a shooting pad or a dedicated bipod mat on top could offer additional cushioning or a specialized surface, though the mat itself provides a good baseline. Its compatibility with standard range bags and gear carriers is excellent due to its efficient roll-up design.

Pros and Cons of Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat

Who Should Buy Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat?

This shooting mat is ideal for anyone who spends regular time shooting outdoors, especially in environments where ground conditions are less than ideal. It’s perfect for recreational shooters, hunters, and those participating in practical rifle disciplines or CMP/NRA Hi-Power matches where ground comfort and stability are key. If you frequently find yourself shooting from the prone position on gravel, dirt, or even concrete, this mat will dramatically improve your experience.

Those who absolutely require sterile, medical-grade surfaces or need extreme portability in a minimalist package might want to look elsewhere. However, for most users seeking a durable, comfortable, and effective shooting mat, this Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat, 27x85in is a fantastic choice. A must-have accessory to complement it would be a basic cleaning kit for periodic wipe-downs to maintain its condition.

Conclusion on Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat

The Bob Allen BAT900 Shooting Mat, 27x85in is a testament to effective, no-nonsense gear design. It delivers precisely what it promises: a comfortable, stable, and insulated shooting platform that significantly enhances the experience of shooting outdoors. Its robust construction, thoughtful features like the non-slip base and convenient carrying strap, and excellent value proposition make it a highly recommendable piece of equipment.

Considering its performance, durability, and the noticeable improvement it brings to range days, the price point of $78.79 is more than justified. I would wholeheartedly recommend this shooting mat to anyone looking for a reliable upgrade from improvising on the ground. It’s the kind of dependable gear that allows you to focus on your fundamentals, not on the discomfort of your surroundings.