Shooting Mats

[jakk280rem]

I decided my next firearm related purchase will be a shooting mat. I want to increase my shooting proficiency by shooting prone, something I have never done before.

It rains alot here in Oregon, so I will need something waterproof. Padded is a must. It will be mostly for range use, with perhaps an occasional jaunt t the coyote fields, so size and weight is not really much of a consideration, within reason. Call it around 4 or 5 pounds. Would prefer something that covers as much of my body as possible to keep the pant legs mud free. Camo is a plus, but not needed. Don't need a Swiss Army mat, pockets, flaps or convertible drag bags.

So, what do you use? What do you think I should use? I've web browsed mats from Galati, Triad, Blackhawk!, Eberlestock, U.S. Peacekeeper, Midwau and others, but don't really have a point of reference. Thanks for the help.

 

[Centurian22]

Would a foam sleeping pad (like found in the camping section) meet the requirements? Just what popped into my head for waterproof, padded, full size, light weight, and simple. I have one, I'll have to remember to throw it in the truck next range trip to try some prone work. Thanks for making me think about this.

 

[Bwana John]

The "deluxe" shooting mat that Midway sells is very nice for the money.http://www.midwayusa.com/product/276544/midwayusa-pro-series-competition-shooting-mat-pvc-coated-polyester-olive-drab

The most comfortable, best mat I have used is from Creedmoor Sports, (get the extra padding and the knee rubber) http://www.creedmoorsports.com/shop/Creedmoor_Camo_Roll_Up_Mat.html

 

[taliv]

The triad one rocks.

However it's also the kind of thing you could make yourself if cost is a factor. You can find all the material for sale in any Camo pattern you like. Heck you could take a tarp from Walmart and sew it around a sleeping bag pad.

The part near the front is supposed to be high friction to keep your elbows from slipping. It's nice but some are meant to be used with leather shooting jackets and are uncomfortable in short sleeves.

Some will have loops in the front to hook your bipod into for loading the bipod.

Make sure you get one that dries out fast and is mold resistant.

 

[loose noose]

jakk, I've been using a neoprene pad that was designed to go under a sleeping bag for years, infact I just pulled it out to check the brand name and there isn't one. It is very light weight and has two straps to wind it up and secure it. It is water proof and very comfortable, it is kind of like an egg carton design if ya know what I mean. I believe I got it at WalMart. It's wide enough to put my spotting scope and rifle pads down on. It also doesn't accumulate dirt like a lot of other material would. Anyway just a thought.

 

[410.bird.shot]

I have a Creedmoor roll up mat and I couldn't be happier. They aren't cheap, but I waited years for this one and I have not been disappointed at all. I would recommend you spring for the carry case, even though you could get by without it. They do offer a variety of camouflage, but this might not be what you're looking for. Check out the options and feel free to PM if you want. See: http://www.creedmoorsports.com/shop/Shooting_Mats/

410.bird.shot

 

[lightman]

The one from Sinclair is pretty nice. Lightman