Best Gun Cleaning Mat 2024: Top Picks for Firearm Maintenance
Gun cleaning mats are essential tools for firearm maintenance. They protect surfaces from oils, solvents, and scratches during the cleaning process. A good mat also keeps small parts organized and prevents them from rolling away. Gun cleaning mats come in various sizes to fit different firearms and workspaces.
Most gun cleaning mats are made of padded rubber or neoprene. These materials are oil-resistant and easy to clean. Some mats have printed diagrams of specific firearms to help with disassembly and reassembly. Others have raised edges to contain spills and keep cleaning supplies in place.
When choosing a gun cleaning mat, size is a key factor. The mat should be large enough for your firearm and cleaning supplies. Material quality is also important for durability and stain resistance. We tested several gun cleaning mats to find the best options for different needs and budgets.
Best Gun Cleaning Mats 2024
We've researched and tested the top gun cleaning mats available this year. Our list includes durable, oil-resistant options that protect your work surface and keep small parts organized. These mats provide a safe space for cleaning and maintaining your firearms.
Falko Tactical Premium Gun Mat
We think this mat is a top choice for gun cleaning due to its thickness, durability, and protective features.
Pros
- Extra thick for better protection
- Oil and solvent resistant surface
- Comes with storage case
Cons
- May have an initial odor
- Larger size might not fit small spaces
- Higher price point than some alternatives
We tried out the Falko Tactical Premium Gun Cleaning Mat, and it really stood out. At 1/4 inch thick, it's much sturdier than other mats we've used. This extra padding kept our work surface safe from scratches and dings.
The mat's surface is great at repelling oils and solvents. We spilled some cleaning solution by accident, but it wiped right off without soaking through. This feature saved us a lot of hassle and kept our workspace clean.
We liked how the mat stayed put during use. Its non-slip backing gripped our table well, even when we were working on heavier firearms. The 36x12 inch size gave us plenty of room for a rifle and our cleaning supplies without feeling cramped.
Rolling up the mat for storage was easy. It comes with a tube case, which is handy for travel or keeping it dust-free between uses. When we unrolled it again, it laid flat right away.
We noticed a slight smell when we first opened the package. It faded after we left the mat out for a few hours. This minor issue didn't take away from the mat's overall quality and usefulness.
Real Avid Universal Smart Mat
The Real Avid Universal Smart Mat is a solid choice for gun cleaning, but it may not be ideal for all maintenance tasks.
Pros
- Large 43x16 inch size fits rifles and shotguns
- Oil-resistant surface protects work areas
- Magnetic parts tray keeps small components secure
Cons
- Relatively thin padding
- May not lie completely flat initially
- Pricier than basic cleaning mats
We found the Real Avid Universal Smart Mat to be a handy tool for gun maintenance. Its 43x16 inch size gave us plenty of room to work on full-sized rifles and shotguns. The oil-resistant surface kept our workspace clean, letting us use it on various surfaces without worry.
The magnetic parts tray was a standout feature. It kept tiny screws and springs in place, saving us from the frustration of lost parts. We liked how the mat rolled up for easy storage when not in use.
While the mat worked well for basic cleaning, we noticed it was a bit thin for some tasks. It didn't always lie perfectly flat right out of the box. For light maintenance, it's great, but for more intense work, a thicker mat might be better. Despite its higher price, we think it's a good buy for most gun owners who clean their firearms at home.
Drymate Gun Cleaning Mat
We can't recommend this mat for gun cleaning due to its thinness and tendency to collect debris.
Pros
- Large size fits most firearms
- Waterproof backing
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Thin material
- Collects lint and metal shavings
- Requires frequent cleaning
The Drymate Gun Cleaning Mat seems promising at first glance. It's big enough to accommodate most firearms, which is nice. We like that it has a waterproof backing to protect surfaces underneath.
But when we used it, we noticed some issues. The mat is quite thin, which doesn't inspire confidence in its durability. We found that lint and fuzz stick to the surface easily. This is a problem because it can mix with gun oil and create a mess.
More concerning is how the mat collects metal shavings from cleaning. These tiny pieces can be hard to remove and might even pose a safety risk. We had to clean the mat often, which was a hassle. While it's cheap, we think spending a bit more on a better option would be wise.
Raiseek Rifle Mat
We recommend this cleaning mat for gun owners who want a durable, feature-rich surface for maintenance tasks.
Pros
- Magnetic area for small parts
- Non-slip bottom
- Compartments for organization
Cons
- Ships rolled up
- May develop creases
- Liquids can pool on surface
The Raiseek Rifle Cleaning Mat offers a solid workspace for gun maintenance. Its 36" x 10" size fits most rifles and shotguns. We like the non-slip bottom that keeps the mat in place during use.
A standout feature is the magnetic area on the top right. It's great for keeping tiny screws and springs from rolling away. The mat also has built-in compartments, which help sort parts during disassembly.
While the mat's soft polymer surface protects both guns and tables, we noticed it can trap liquids. Solvents and oils don't soak through, but they can pool if not wiped up quickly. The mat also tends to keep its rolled shape at first, so it may need time to flatten out.
OneTigris Magnetic Gun Mat
We found this gun cleaning mat to be a solid choice for firearm maintenance, but it has some drawbacks to consider.
Pros
- Large size for multiple guns
- Built-in magnets for parts
- Easy to clean surface
Cons
- Doesn't lay flat initially
- Prone to creasing
- Magnets may magnetize parts
The OneTigris gun cleaning mat offers plenty of space for working on rifles and pistols. We liked the 36-inch by 10-inch size, which gave us room to spread out parts and tools. The surface is split into sections, making it easy to organize everything.
One standout feature is the 10 magnetic spots built into the mat. These helped us keep track of small parts during cleaning. But we noticed the magnets could sometimes make gun parts magnetic, which might attract metal shavings at the range.
The rubber surface cleans up well with just a quick wipe. It also guards against scratches. We did find that the mat takes time to lay flat after unrolling. It can develop lasting creases if not stored properly. While the material keeps spills contained, it's not fully waterproof.
Buying Guide
When shopping for a gun cleaning mat, there are a few key factors to consider:
Size
We recommend choosing a mat large enough to accommodate your firearms and cleaning supplies. Common sizes range from 12x24 inches for pistols to 36x12 inches for rifles.
Material
Look for durable, oil-resistant materials like neoprene or rubber. These will protect your work surface and absorb spills.
Padding
A padded mat helps cushion your firearms and prevents scratches. Aim for at least 1/8 inch thickness.
Non-slip backing
This feature keeps the mat in place while you work.
Cleaning diagrams
Some mats include helpful diagrams of common firearms. These can be useful references during cleaning.
Chemical resistance
Choose a mat that won't break down when exposed to solvents and cleaning chemicals.
Portability
If you plan to travel with your mat, look for one that's lightweight and easy to roll up.
Price
Gun cleaning mats range from $10 to $50+. Higher-priced options often offer better quality and more features.
Warranty
A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protection for your purchase.
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Size | Fits your firearms |
| Material | Protects surfaces |
| Padding | Prevents scratches |
| Non-slip | Keeps mat in place |
| Diagrams | Aids in cleaning |
By considering these factors, we can choose a gun cleaning mat that meets our needs and protects our firearms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gun cleaning mats are essential tools for firearm maintenance. We've compiled answers to some common questions about selecting and using cleaning mats in 2024.
What features should I look for in a cleaning mat?
A good gun cleaning mat should be waterproof and oil-resistant. Look for thick padding to protect your work surface. Non-slip backing keeps the mat in place. Some mats have printed diagrams or rulers, which can be helpful.
Which brands offer the best extra-large gun cleaning mats in 2024?
Real Avid and Tipton make great extra-large mats. These can fit long rifles or multiple handguns. Hoppe's and TekMat also offer big sizes for 2024. Extra-large mats give more workspace for parts and tools.
Are there any top-rated gun cleaning mats that are made in the USA?
Yes, several top brands make mats in the USA. TekMat produces American-made mats of high quality. Sage & Braker offers USA-made waxed canvas mats. These support local manufacturing and often have great build quality.
Can I get a custom-designed gun cleaning mat, and where?
Custom gun cleaning mats are available from some online retailers. You can add personal images or text. GunMat.com and CustomGunMats.com offer these services. They make great gifts for gun enthusiasts.
What are the benefits of gun cleaning mats with built-in magnetic parts holders?
Magnetic parts holders keep small pieces organized. They prevent lost springs or pins during cleaning. These mats can speed up the cleaning process. The magnets are usually strong enough to hold parts securely.
Do professional gunsmiths recommend any specific gun cleaning mats?
Many gunsmiths like TekMat for its durability and printed diagrams. Wheeler mats are also popular for their quality. Some prefer simple, unprinted mats for versatility. The choice often depends on personal preference and specific needs.