Is the TekMat Molon Labe “Come and Take Them” Gun Cleaning Mat, Black, 11 x 17 Right for You?
As an equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across diverse environments, I’ve learned that the right tools are paramount, especially when dealing with firearms. My workbench often sees the residue of solvents, oils, and the occasional rogue spring. This led me to seek out a mat that could offer protection for both my firearms and my workspace. I stumbled upon the TekMat Molon Labe “Come and Take Them” Gun Cleaning Mat, Black, 11 x 17, attracted by its promise of durability and the subtle nod to historical defiance. My previous setup involved a patchwork of old towels and cardboard, a decidedly amateur approach that often resulted in lost parts and scratched surfaces. The initial impression of this TekMat mat was one of pragmatic functionality; the materials felt robust, and the print, while carrying a message, didn’t detract from its utilitarian purpose. I had briefly considered generic neoprene mats, but their lack of a distinct design and potentially thinner material made me hesitate. This mat offered a sense of immediate relief, a promise of order on my often-chaotic work surface.
Real-World Testing: Putting TekMat Molon Labe “Come and Take Them” Gun Cleaning Mat, Black, 11 x 17 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for this TekMat mat were my home workshop and my dedicated gun cleaning bench. It immediately provided a stable, non-slip surface for disassembly and reassembly of a few handguns. Even with the usual array of small parts, screws, and pins, the mat kept everything contained and prevented anything from rolling off into the abyss of a cluttered bench. The polyester top proved resistant to minor splashes of CLP and gun oil, wiping clean with minimal effort after each session.
I encountered no significant issues during its first few uses; it performed precisely as advertised. The material offered a pleasant tactile feel, neither too slick nor too rough, which is crucial when handling delicate firearm components. It was intuitively simple to deploy and put away, requiring no special instructions or acclimation period.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, often multiple times a week, the TekMat cleaning mat has held up admirably. It has endured repeated cleanings of handguns, some of which can be quite involved. There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear, such as fraying edges or delamination between the polyester top and neoprene backing.
Maintaining the mat is straightforward; a gentle cycle in the washing machine followed by air-drying has consistently returned it to a near-new state, effectively removing accumulated grime and residual oils. Compared to the old towels I used to rely on, which would stain and degrade, this mat offers a far superior and more durable solution. It feels more substantial and forgiving than thinner, cheaper alternatives I’ve encountered.
Breaking Down the Features of TekMat Molon Labe “Come and Take Them” Gun Cleaning Mat, Black, 11 x 17
Specifications
The TekMat Molon Labe “Come and Take Them” Gun Cleaning Mat, Black, 11 x 17 boasts a practical set of specifications designed for its intended purpose. Its dimensions of 11 x 17 inches are ideal for working on most handguns without feeling cramped. The 1/8 inch (0.125 inch) thickness provides a comfortable cushioning effect, protecting both the firearm and the work surface.
The mat is constructed from a blend of polyester for the soft, protective top layer and neoprene rubber for the non-slip backing. This combination is key to its functionality, preventing scratches on the firearm and ensuring the mat stays put. The machine washable feature is a significant plus for maintenance, allowing for easy cleaning after dirty jobs.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary role as a gun cleaning mat, this TekMat model performs exceptionally well. The polyester surface provides a gentle resting place for firearms, effectively preventing scratches that could occur on harder surfaces like wood or metal benches. The neoprene backing is remarkably effective at gripping various surfaces, from finished wood to laminate, keeping the mat and your firearm securely in place during intricate cleaning or maintenance tasks.
Its main strength lies in its protective capabilities and stability. It successfully contains spills and prevents oils and solvents from seeping through to damage your workbench or desk. A minor point for improvement could be the overall ink saturation of the Molon Labe graphic, which, while clear, might wear slightly faster than the base material under extreme, prolonged scrubbing, although I have not observed this yet.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the TekMat Molon Labe “Come and Take Them” Gun Cleaning Mat, Black, 11 x 17 is a balance of functional pragmatism and subtle aesthetic. The all-black color scheme is classic and doesn’t draw unnecessary attention, allowing the “Molon Labe” motif to be a distinctive feature without being overpowering. The print is sharp and well-applied, adding a touch of personal expression to the workspace.
Ergonomically, the mat is a pleasure to work with. Its size is generous enough for common handgun cleaning tasks, providing ample space for tools and components. The soft polyester top is comfortable to lean on or rest forearms upon during extended work sessions, and the neoprene backing ensures it remains stable, eliminating the need to constantly reposition a sliding mat.
Durability & Maintenance
This TekMat cleaning mat is built for durability, especially given its relatively low price point. The polyester/neoprene construction is inherently resilient. After repeated exposure to cleaning solvents and oils, the material shows no signs of degradation, stiffness, or discoloration beyond normal use.
Maintenance is one of its standout features. Being machine washable simplifies the cleaning process immensely. A simple wash on a gentle cycle and air drying is all that’s needed to restore its cleanliness, making it a practical choice for frequent users. I’ve experienced no particular failure points; it’s a well-constructed mat designed for its specific purpose.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TekMat Molon Labe “Come and Take Them” Gun Cleaning Mat, Black, 11 x 17 comes as a standalone item; no additional accessories are included in the package. However, its design lends itself well to being paired with a variety of gun cleaning kits, tool rolls, and organizers. The 11 x 17-inch size is also noted as being perfect for use as a large mouse pad, offering a touch of personal flair to a computer setup if desired.
While there are no direct customization options for the mat itself beyond selecting different graphics or sizes TekMat might offer, its utility as a platform is what matters. It serves as an excellent base for any gunsmithing or cleaning toolkit.
Pros and Cons of TekMat Molon Labe “Come and Take Them” Gun Cleaning Mat, Black, 11 x 17
Pros
- Excellent firearm protection: The soft polyester top effectively prevents scratches and marring on firearm finishes.
- Secure work surface: The neoprene rubber backing provides superior grip, keeping the mat and components stable.
- Easy maintenance: The machine washable design makes cleaning up after messy jobs incredibly simple.
- Durable construction: Made from polyester/neoprene, it’s built to withstand solvents and oils without degradation.
- Appropriate size: At 11 x 17 inches, it offers ample space for most handgun cleaning tasks.
- Affordable: Offers significant value for its quality and features, especially for its price of $13.95.
Cons
- Limited capacity for larger firearms: While great for handguns, it may be too small for long rifles or shotguns.
- Graphic wear potential: Though not observed yet, aggressive scrubbing on the printed areas could eventually lead to some wear.
Who Should Buy TekMat Molon Labe “Come and Take Them” Gun Cleaning Mat, Black, 11 x 17?
This TekMat cleaning mat is ideally suited for handgun owners, hobbyist gunsmiths, and anyone who performs regular maintenance on their firearms. It’s perfect for home use on gun benches, kitchen tables, or even office desks where a dedicated workspace is often a luxury. Its ease of cleaning and durable construction make it a great choice for those who appreciate practicality and long-term value.
Individuals who primarily work with long guns might find the 11 x 17 inch dimensions a bit restrictive. Those requiring a completely sterile environment for critical medical or laboratory applications should look elsewhere, as this mat is designed for the mechanical tasks of firearm maintenance. A good accompanying accessory would be a set of quality gun cleaning tools and a solvent-resistant parts tray to complement the mat’s protective surface.
Conclusion on TekMat Molon Labe “Come and Take Them” Gun Cleaning Mat, Black, 11 x 17
The TekMat Molon Labe “Come and Take Them” Gun Cleaning Mat, Black, 11 x 17 punches well above its weight class, especially considering its accessible price of $13.95. It delivers on its core promise: protecting firearms and work surfaces effectively while offering remarkable ease of maintenance. The combination of a soft, non-marring top and a grippy, solvent-resistant backing makes it a fundamental tool for any handgun enthusiast.
For its intended purpose and price point, the value proposition is undeniable. I would readily recommend this mat to anyone looking for a significant upgrade from basic cleaning solutions. It strikes an excellent balance between functionality, durability, and a touch of personal style, making it a worthwhile addition to any firearm owner’s toolkit.