Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat Review

Real Insights into the Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat

As someone who’s spent over a decade wrestling with gear in environments ranging from dusty workshops to windswept mountain tops, I’ve developed a keen eye for equipment that’s not just functional, but thoughtfully designed. My recent foray into long-range shooting introduced a specific need: a portable, durable, and stable platform that wouldn’t weigh me down. The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat quickly caught my attention with its promise of mobility and enhanced accuracy, a combination often at odds with traditional shooting mats. I was looking for a mat that could easily slide into the side pocket of my rifle bag, something under two pounds that would keep me off the dirt and dew, and ideally offer a bit more than just a barrier between me and the ground.

The initial impression of this shooting mat is one of robust simplicity. The dual-sided camouflage patterns immediately suggest versatility, a key selling point for varied terrain. The feel of the 500-Denier WR Cordura fabric speaks of durability, and the integrated bipod rails hint at practical, thoughtful engineering. I briefly considered a more basic, cheaper mat that rolled up smaller, but the prospect of built-in bipod support and the water-resistant coating on this Crosstac model seemed to justify the investment. My first reaction was a sense of quiet satisfaction; it felt like a tool built by people who understand the demands of the field, not just a marketing exercise.

Real-World Testing: Putting Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat to the Test

My initial testing grounds were a familiar, albeit less glamorous, setting: the concrete floor of my garage during a thorough rifle cleaning and accessory installation session. This allowed me to get a feel for the mat’s texture, its weight when unrolled, and how it lay flat. Following that, I took it out to a local outdoor range during a drizzly, overcast afternoon. Here, the mat served its primary purpose as a barrier against damp ground and gravel, providing a clean, stable surface to prone out and zero my rifle. The true test came during a subsequent weekend trip to a more remote, natural firing point in the hills, where it encountered uneven terrain, pine needles, and patches of damp earth.

The Recon Shooting Mat performed admirably under these varied conditions. On the concrete, it provided a comfortable, albeit thin, cushion and kept tools from rolling away too easily. At the range, its 500-Denier WR Cordura construction meant light moisture beaded right off, preventing me from getting soaked through. The dual-sided camo patterns proved their worth; I switched to the slightly lighter Multicam Arid side when shooting against a dry, sandy embankment, and the standard Multicam when in a more vegetated area. Its intuitiveness is a major plus; there was no need for a complex setup. You simply unroll it, and it’s ready.

Extended use has only solidified my positive impression of this shooting mat. After several months of use, including multiple range days and a multi-day camping trip where it doubled as a makeshift ground cover in my tent vestibule, it shows minimal signs of wear. The fabric remains taut, the stitching is holding firm, and the urethane coating on the inside still beads water effectively. Cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or a rinse with a hose, and it dries relatively quickly. Storing it is also straightforward; it rolls up compactly, secured by flat bungee straps, making it easy to tuck away. Compared to some of the bulkier, heavier mats I’ve used in the past, this Crosstac model offers superior portability without sacrificing essential functionality.

First Use Experience

My first practical application for the Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat was on a slightly damp, uneven patch of ground at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was overcast, with a persistent light drizzle in the air. I unrolled the mat and immediately noticed how well it lay flat, thanks to its construction and the integrated foam layer. My rifle, equipped with a bipod, found a stable resting place on the sewn-in web bipod rails, a feature that significantly enhanced my stability compared to placing the bipod directly on the ground.

The mat performed exactly as advertised during this initial outing. It kept me dry and provided a consistent, clean surface for prone shooting. The dual camo patterns allowed me to choose the side that best blended with my immediate surroundings, a subtle but appreciated detail. There were no unexpected issues; the mat was intuitive to deploy and performed its core function without fuss.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past few months, this shooting mat has become a staple in my range bag. I’ve used it on everything from gravel pits to muddy banks and even a rocky hillside during a recent hunt. Its dual layers of 500-Denier WR Cordura have proven exceptionally durable; there are no signs of fraying or wear on the edges, and the fabric has resisted punctures from small rocks and thorns.

The 1/8in closed-cell foam layer provides just enough insulation and padding to make extended shooting sessions comfortable, even on hard surfaces. Maintaining the mat is simple; a quick brush off or a wash with water is all it usually needs. It rolls up neatly into its compact size, making it an indispensable part of my mobile shooting setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat

Specifications

The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat is engineered with mobility and stability in mind, measuring approximately 14×6 inches when rolled and weighing in at a mere 1.5 lbs for the regular length. Its construction utilizes two layers of 500-Denier WR Cordura, a robust material known for its abrasion resistance and water-repellent qualities. The inside of the fabric is urethane coated for enhanced water resistance, while the outside is treated with a WR (water-repellent) finish. A key feature is the sewn-in layer of 1/8in closed-cell foam, chosen for its water-repelling properties and ability to provide subtle insulation and cushioning.

Integral to the mat’s design are sewn-in web bipod rails on both sides, providing a consistent and stable interface for rifle bipods, a critical element for accuracy. For securing the mat in place, it features grommets that can be used to pin it down with stakes or tie it out, offering versatility in deployment. Flat bungee straps are included to hold the mat closed when rolled, and Molle webbing allows for attachment to other gear. The fabric is also treated with panel stitching to prevent any shifting or bunching during use.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role, the Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat delivers excellent performance. The combination of the stable surface, the excellent grip offered by the Cordura, and the dedicated web bipod rails significantly improves shooting stability, particularly in prone positions. This translates directly into more consistent shot placement, which is crucial for any precision shooting discipline.

The mat’s water-resistance is a standout feature; during prolonged exposure to damp ground, I remained dry and comfortable. The 1/8in closed-cell foam provides just enough barrier to take the sting out of hard surfaces without adding significant bulk or weight. Its versatility extends beyond just a shooting mat; I’ve used it as a makeshift gear mat and even a clean surface for handling optics in the field.

While the mat excels in its core functions, a potential minor drawback for some might be the 1/8in foam thickness. For users seeking substantial padding, it might feel a bit thin. However, for its intended purpose of enhanced mobility and stability, the current thickness is a well-judged compromise.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Recon Shooting Mat is a testament to practical innovation. The dual-sided camo patterns (Multicam and Multicam Arid) offer genuine utility for blending into diverse environments, a thoughtful touch that adds significant value. The 500-Denier Cordura feels substantial and durable without being overly stiff, allowing the mat to lay relatively flat even on uneven ground.

The Molle webbing and grommets are well-placed and robust, offering secure attachment options. The flat bungee straps for securing the rolled mat are a small but appreciated detail, preventing them from snagging on other gear. Its compact rolled size and lightweight 1.5 lbs (regular) design make it incredibly easy to carry and deploy.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my testing and the materials used, the Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat is built for longevity. The 500-Denier WR Cordura is inherently tough and resistant to abrasion, a critical factor for a piece of gear that will inevitably be dragged across various terrains. The urethane coating on the inside is bonded well, suggesting it won’t delaminate easily.

Maintenance is straightforward; the water-resistant nature of the fabric means dirt and moisture can usually be wiped away. For more thorough cleaning, a gentle wash and air dry are sufficient. The closed-cell foam will not absorb water, which aids in quick drying and prevents mildew. The only real concern for long-term durability would be repeated harsh abrasion on the fabric’s coating over many years of intense use, but for its intended purpose, it feels exceptionally well-built.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat comes with a few integrated features that function as accessories. The most notable are the sewn-in web bipod rails on both sides, which eliminate the need for a separate bipod mat or adapter. The flat bungee straps for roll-up security and the Molle webbing for external attachment are also practical additions.

While the mat itself doesn’t have extensive customization options in terms of interchangeable parts, its utility is enhanced by how it integrates with other gear. The Molle webbing allows it to be attached to packs or plate carriers, making it readily accessible. The grommets offer a clear pathway for customization of deployment methods, allowing users to integrate stakes or ropes as needed for their specific environment.

Pros and Cons of Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat

Who Should Buy Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat?

The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat is an ideal choice for mobile shooters who prioritize weight and packability. This includes precision rifle competitors, hunters operating in varied terrain, and tactical operators who need a reliable shooting platform without adding significant bulk to their loadout. Anyone who frequently finds themselves shooting from the prone position on less-than-ideal surfaces, such as damp grass, loose gravel, or uneven dirt, will benefit immensely from its stability and protection.

Conversely, individuals who primarily shoot from established ranges with concrete benches or who require substantial padding for extended comfort might find this mat to be a bit minimalist. Those on a very tight budget might also opt for simpler, less feature-rich alternatives. For those looking to maximize its utility, consider bringing a few tent stakes for pinning it down in windy conditions, and perhaps a small, lightweight tarp to augment it if extreme weather protection is anticipated.

Conclusion on Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat

The Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat stands out as a superbly designed piece of equipment for the discerning shooter who values mobility, durability, and functional enhancements. Its 1.5 lb weight and compact rolled size make it a joy to transport, while the robust 500-Denier Cordura and thoughtful features like the integrated bipod rails and dual camo patterns demonstrate a clear understanding of real-world shooting demands. The water-resistant properties are also a significant advantage, keeping you drier and more comfortable in less-than-ideal conditions.

While the $137.99 price tag places it at the higher end for shooting mats, the value proposition is strong, especially when considering the integrated features that eliminate the need for separate accessories. The 1/8in foam provides just enough insulation and cushioning without compromising its lightweight nature. I would absolutely recommend this Crosstac Recon Shooting Mat to any shooter who prioritizes a stable, portable, and durable platform. It’s an investment that pays dividends in accuracy and comfort, making it a worthwhile addition to any serious gear kit.