Have you ever tried to take the perfect shot, only to be distracted by rocks digging into your elbows? Or maybe you’ve ruined a good pair of pants crawling around trying to get a steady aim? Every shooter knows that comfort and stability are key to accuracy. But finding the right shooting mat can feel like navigating a minefield of confusing features and questionable quality.
Choosing a shooting mat isn’t just about comfort; it’s about protecting your gear, improving your focus, and ultimately, enhancing your shooting performance. With so many materials, sizes, and designs available, how do you know which mat will truly meet your needs? It’s frustrating to spend money on something that ends up being uncomfortable, flimsy, or simply the wrong fit for your shooting style.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about shooting mats. We’ll explore the different types, materials, and features to look for. You’ll learn how to choose a mat that provides the perfect balance of comfort, durability, and portability. Get ready to say goodbye to uncomfortable shooting positions and hello to improved accuracy and a more enjoyable experience on the range or in the field. Let’s dive in and discover the perfect shooting mat for you!
Our Top 5 Shooting Mats Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Shooting Mats Prone Padded | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Shooting Mat | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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MidwayUSA Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat Olive Drab | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Outdoor Camping Tactical Training Shooting Mat Anti Slip Pad | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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IC ICLOVER Shooting Mat | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Shooting Mats Detailed Reviews
1. Shooting Mats Prone Padded
Rating: 8.6/10
The Shooting Mats Prone Padded is a large, portable shooting mat designed for comfort and durability. It rolls up for easy transport and offers a waterproof, non-slip surface. With thick cotton padding, a bipod holder, and accessory pockets, this mat is ready for any range or hunting scenario.
What We Like:
- The 1000D nylon construction provides excellent water and abrasion resistance, making it a durable choice.
- It offers ample space for shooters of all sizes with its generous 77″ length and 28″ width.
- Two storage pockets allow you to keep your shooting supplies organized and within easy reach. One pocket even holds bullets and pens.
- The cotton padding and anti-slip mats on the knee and elbow areas enhance comfort during long shooting sessions.
- The bipod holder provides a secure and stable platform for your rifle, preventing unwanted movement.
- Four corner copper buckle holes offer quick setup and allow you to stake the mat to the ground for extra stability.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the 1000D nylon can be a bit stiff initially.
- The pockets, while useful, could benefit from additional closure options for added security.
In conclusion, the Shooting Mats Prone Padded is a well-designed and practical shooting mat that offers comfort, durability, and organization. This mat is a great addition to any shooter’s gear.
2. Shooting Mat
Rating: 8.9/10
The Shooting Mat, Extra Large Folded Shooting Mats Prone Padded Hunting Accessories for Range Hunting is a durable and comfortable shooting platform for range days, hunting trips, or even overnight camping. It provides a padded surface to protect you from the elements and keeps your gear within easy reach. This mat is designed for easy portability and quick setup, making it a great addition to any shooter’s gear bag.
What We Like:
- Made with durable 1000D nylon and EPE padding for long-lasting use.
- The 0.2 inch thick EPE padding offers comfortable cushioning for elbows and upper body.
- It folds up easily and is lightweight for convenient storage and transport.
- Quick release buckles allow for easy attachment to a backpack.
- The mat has a large unfolded size (78″ x 28.5″) to keep you out of the mud and dust.
- Two accessory pockets keep your gear within easy reach.
- Four corner buckle holes allow for quick setup and staking to the ground for stability.
- Versatile use as a shooting mat or ground padding under a sleeping bag.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.2 inch padding, while helpful, might not be thick enough for very rocky or uneven terrain.
- While durable, the 1000D nylon may be susceptible to wear and tear with very heavy use over time.
- The accessory pockets could be larger or have more secure closures for smaller items.
This shooting mat is a practical and well-designed accessory for any shooter or outdoors enthusiast. It offers a comfortable and stable shooting platform that is easy to transport and set up.
3. MidwayUSA Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat Olive Drab
Rating: 9.2/10
The MidwayUSA Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat in Olive Drab is designed for serious shooters. It gives you a stable and comfortable platform for practicing or competing. The mat is built to last and offers several features that enhance your shooting experience. You can take it to high power rifle matches, CMP competitions, or smallbore events.
What We Like:
- The sturdy corner grommets let you stake the mat down, keeping it secure even in windy conditions. Four stakes are included.
- Built-in elbow and knee pads provide extra comfort during long shooting sessions.
- It is legal for use in High Power/CMP Rifle Matches and Smallbore Competitions.
- The bottom of the mat features a textured, non-skid, water-resistant material. This keeps you from sliding around and protects you from damp ground.
- The mat is 74 inches long, providing ample space for most shooters. When you fold out the flap with accessory pockets, the length extends to 85 inches for even more room.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the water-resistant material is good, it’s not fully waterproof. Prolonged exposure to very wet conditions might seep through.
- Some shooters may prefer thicker padding for even greater comfort during extended use.
This shooting mat is a solid choice for competitive shooters looking for a reliable and feature-rich platform. With its thoughtful design and durable construction, the MidwayUSA Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat will help you improve your shooting game.
4. Outdoor Camping Tactical Training Shooting Mat Anti Slip Pad
Rating: 9.4/10
The Outdoor Camping Tactical Training Shooting Mat is a versatile and practical accessory for outdoor enthusiasts. This mat provides a comfortable and protected surface for various activities, from shooting practice to picnics. Made with durable materials and designed for easy portability, it’s a great addition to your gear.
What We Like:
- The 600D PVC Oxford fabric is tough. It resists moisture and wear, making it ideal for outdoor use.
- Its large size (29.5*78 inch) offers ample space for a single person. You can comfortably lie down or spread out your gear.
- It is highly versatile. You can use it for camping, training, hiking, shooting, and more.
- Folding design makes it easy to store and carry. It folds into a compact rectangle or handbag shape.
- The carry strap adds to its portability. You can easily transport it to your desired location.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is designed for single person use only. A larger size option for multiple users would be beneficial.
- The color options are limited to Army Green. More color choices would allow for greater personalization.
In conclusion, this mat is a durable and convenient option for anyone who spends time outdoors. It provides a reliable surface for a range of activities and is easy to transport.
5. IC ICLOVER Shooting Mat
Rating: 9.1/10
The IC ICLOVER Shooting Mat is a tactical, padded mat designed for prone shooting. It has pockets, Molle webbing, and a bipod holder. The mat is extra-large, non-slip, waterproof, and foldable. It’s built for long-range rifle shooting and hunting.
What We Like:
- Spacious and Universal Fit: The 77″L x 28″W size easily fits most shooters from 5’3″ to 6’5″.
- Durable and Waterproof: The 1000D nylon and waterproof coating keep you dry and protected.
- Comfortable Padding: The 0.4-inch thick EPE padding cushions your elbows and knees.
- Smart Storage: Two zipper pockets and Molle webbing offer easy access to your gear.
- Stable Shooting Platform: The bipod holder and grommet holes help you stay steady.
- Portable Design: It folds up compactly for easy carrying to the range or field.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.4-inch padding might not be enough for everyone on very rough terrain.
- While durable, extremely heavy use could still cause wear and tear over time.
The IC ICLOVER Shooting Mat is a great choice for shooters who want a comfortable, durable, and portable platform. Its features make it ideal for both range practice and hunting trips.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Shooting Mat
Shooting mats are essential for comfortable and accurate shooting, whether you’re at the range, in the field, or practicing in your backyard. They provide a stable, clean surface to lie on and protect you from dirt, rocks, and uncomfortable ground. This guide will help you choose the best shooting mat for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a shooting mat, consider these important features:
- Padding: Good padding makes a big difference in comfort. Look for mats with thick, dense foam padding.
- Non-Slip Surface: A non-slip surface is crucial for stability. It prevents the mat and your rifle from sliding around.
- Water Resistance: Shooting often happens in less-than-ideal weather. A water-resistant mat keeps you dry and comfortable.
- Portability: Consider how easily the mat folds up and carries. Look for mats with carry handles or straps.
- Size: The mat should be long enough to accommodate your entire body and wide enough to provide ample space for your gear.
- Durability: The mat needs to withstand repeated use and exposure to the elements. Reinforced stitching and durable materials are important.
- Attachment points: Some mats have loops or grommets to stake the mat down in windy conditions.
- Bipod support: Look for a mat that can accommodate a bipod if you use one. This will improve stability and accuracy.
Important Materials
The materials used in a shooting mat greatly impact its performance and durability. Here’s a breakdown of common materials:
- Outer Shell: Nylon and polyester are popular choices for the outer shell. These materials are durable, water-resistant, and relatively lightweight. Cordura nylon is a particularly tough and abrasion-resistant option.
- Padding: Closed-cell foam is a common and effective padding material. It’s lightweight, water-resistant, and provides good insulation. Open-cell foam is more comfortable, but it can absorb water.
- Non-Slip Material: Rubber or textured PVC are often used on the bottom of the mat to prevent slipping.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors contribute to the overall quality of a shooting mat:
- Improved Quality:
- Reinforced Stitching: Prevents seams from tearing and extends the mat’s lifespan.
- High-Density Padding: Provides better comfort and support.
- Durable Outer Shell: Resists abrasion and water damage.
- Effective Non-Slip Surface: Ensures stability and prevents movement.
- Well thought out carrying system: Makes transport easy and convenient.
- Reduced Quality:
- Thin Padding: Offers minimal comfort and support.
- Poor Stitching: Leads to premature wear and tear.
- Cheap Materials: Prone to damage and offer poor performance.
- Slippery Surface: Creates instability and reduces accuracy.
- Difficult to carry: Makes transport cumbersome and inconvenient.
User Experience and Use Cases
Shooting mats are versatile and can be used in a variety of scenarios:
- Target Shooting: Provides a comfortable and stable platform for practicing at the range.
- Hunting: Protects you from the elements and provides a steady shooting position in the field.
- Long-Range Shooting: Offers a stable base for precision shooting at extended distances.
- Tactical Training: Provides a safe and comfortable surface for practicing shooting drills.
- General Outdoor Use: Can be used as a comfortable surface for camping, picnics, or other outdoor activities.
Think about how you plan to use the mat when making your decision. A hunter might prioritize portability and weather resistance, while a target shooter might focus on comfort and stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size shooting mat should I buy?
A: Choose a mat that is long enough for your entire body to lie on comfortably. Also, consider the width. A wider mat gives you more room for your gear.
Q: Is water resistance really necessary?
A: Yes, water resistance is important, especially if you shoot outdoors. It keeps you dry and comfortable in wet conditions.
Q: How do I clean my shooting mat?
A: Most shooting mats can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Q: What is the best type of padding for a shooting mat?
A: Closed-cell foam is generally considered the best type of padding. It is lightweight, water-resistant, and provides good insulation.
Q: How important is a non-slip surface?
A: A non-slip surface is crucial. It prevents the mat and your rifle from sliding around, improving stability and accuracy.
Q: Can I use a shooting mat for other activities?
A: Yes, shooting mats can be used for other outdoor activities like camping, picnics, or as a general-purpose ground cover.
Q: What is Cordura nylon?
A: Cordura nylon is a high-performance fabric known for its durability and resistance to abrasion, tears, and scuffs. It is often used in the outer shell of high-quality shooting mats.
Q: Are all shooting mats foldable?
A: Most shooting mats are foldable for easy storage and transport. However, some may roll up instead. Check the product description for details.
Q: How do I choose between a folding and rolling shooting mat?
A: Folding mats are often more compact when stored, while rolling mats can be quicker to deploy. Consider your storage space and how quickly you need to set up your shooting position.
Q: Do I need to stake my shooting mat down?
A: Staking your shooting mat down is recommended in windy conditions to prevent it from blowing away or shifting during use. Look for mats with attachment points for stakes.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Robert Contreras, a passionate archery instructor based in the USA. With years of experience under my belt, I’ve dedicated my life to mastering the art of archery and sharing its intricacies with enthusiasts of all levels. Through my website, 10Bows.com, I invite you to explore a treasure trove of tips, techniques, and personal insights that reflect my journey in the world of archery. Whether you’re picking up a bow for the first time or refining your skills, I’m here to help guide you toward precision, focus, and a deeper appreciation for this timeless sport.