7 Best Shooting Mats

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The best shooting mats provide not only comfort but also stability and protection from the elements, ensuring you can stay focused during extended shooting sessions.

Whether you’re braving rugged terrain, dealing with unpredictable weather, or aiming for precision at the range, a durable, water-resistant shooting mat with ample padding can enhance your overall shooting experience.

With a variety of options available, it’s important to consider key factors such as material durability, padding, size, portability, and additional features when choosing the best shooting mat for your needs.

Let’s look at the best Shooting Mats.

Best Shooting Mats

 

1) NcStar Roll-Up Shooting Mat

NcStar Roll-Up Shooting Mat

 

 

 

The NcStar VISM Roll-Up Shooting Mat stands out as the best shooting mat, designed with both comfort and convenience. Manufactured by experts at NcSTAR, this shooting mat offers more than just a surface to shoot from; it combines durability, portability, and versatility, making it an essential accessory for any shooting enthusiast.

This mat is constructed from tough PVC material that is both water and chemical-resistant, ensuring longevity and resistance to the elements. Whether you’re shooting in wet or rugged environments, this mat will provide a durable, stable surface for prone shooting.

Measuring 69″ in length and 35″ in width, it offers ample space for shooters of all sizes, while the .30″ padding adds extra comfort for extended sessions on the ground. Additionally, the mat features slip-resistant elbow and knee panels, preventing you from sliding during recoil and maintaining a secure shooting position.

One of the most convenient aspects of the NcStar Roll-Up Shooting Mat is its compact design when stored. It rolls up to a size of 19.5″ wide by 8.5″ high, secured with two hook-and-loop straps, making it easy to carry to your shooting location.

The integrated carry handle and adjustable shoulder strap provide versatility in transport options, and the shoulder strap can even serve double duty by helping to secure a firearm bipod in place, preventing rifle movement under recoil.

Versatility is key with this shooting mat. Beyond its primary use, the NcStar VISM Roll-Up Shooting Mat can also be used as ground padding under a sleeping bag when camping or even rolled up to serve as a pillow.

This adaptability, combined with its durability and compact design, makes it one of the most practical and high-performing shooting mats on the market.

Key Features

  • Comfort and Durability: Made from tough PVC material with water and chemical resistance, ensuring long-lasting use in any environment.
  • Compact and Portable: Rolls up to a compact size of 19.5″W X 8.5″H and includes a carry handle and adjustable shoulder strap for easy transport.
  • Slip-Resistant Design: Elbow and knee slip-resistant panels provide stability during shooting, making it easier to stay in position.
  • Multi-Purpose Use: Can also be used as camping padding or as a support for firearm bipods, preventing rifle movement under recoil.

Pros

  • Durable, water and chemical-resistant material
  • Compact roll-up design with easy transport features
  • Slip-resistant panels for enhanced stability
  • Versatile use beyond shooting, such as camping ground padding
  • Ample padding for comfort during prone shooting

Cons

  • It may feel bulky for extended hiking or carrying over long distances

Get  it on Amazon or Optics Planet

 

2) MidwayUSA Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat

MidwayUSA Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat

 

The MidwayUSA Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat is  one of the best shooting mats, a top-tier choice for shooters seeking durability, comfort, and thoughtful design. Built with input from some of the best shooters in the industry, this shooting mat is designed to perform in competition settings, from local matches to the prestigious national matches at Camp Perry.

With the success of the original Competition Shooting Mat as a foundation, the Pro Series takes things to the next level, offering more robust features tailored to serious marksmen.

One of the most significant upgrades is its longer and wider design, providing extra space for a comfortable shooting position. The mat’s .35″ thick padding offers a supportive cushion, making prone shooting more comfortable for extended periods. The addition of non-skid elbow and knee pads ensures that you maintain a stable position even during recoil, making it ideal for precision shooting in competitions.

The mat is also equipped with heavy-duty sewn webbing, specifically designed for bipod preload, allowing you to stabilize your shot with maximum accuracy.

The MidwayUSA Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat is also highly versatile and practical. It includes two accessory pockets for essential gear, as well as two pen pockets, providing convenient storage for small items like tools or scorecards. The mat’s textured, non-skid bottom is both water-resistant and durable, ensuring that it stays in place on wet or uneven ground.

With corner grommets and four metal stakes, the mat can be securely fastened, preventing movement in windy conditions. Its fold-out flap containing accessory pockets adds extra length, giving you a generous 85″ of total length when fully extended.

Designed for serious shooters, the MidwayUSA Pro Series is legal for High Power/CMP Rifle Matches and Smallbore Competitions, making it a go-to option for competition use.

It’s easy to transport, folding into a compact size with a carry handle and adjustable shoulder strap, and at 6.2 pounds, it strikes a balance between sturdiness and portability.

Key Features

  • Upgraded Design: Longer, wider, and thicker padding for enhanced comfort and space during shooting.
  • Non-Skid Pads: Elbow and knee pads provide stability, preventing slipping during recoil.
  • Bipod Preload Webbing: Sturdy sewn webbing helps stabilize your shot by allowing proper bipod preload.
  • Ample Storage: Two accessory pockets and two pen pockets provide easy access to gear and tools.
  • Secure in All Conditions: Equipped with four metal stakes and corner grommets to keep the mat firmly in place.
  • Durable Construction: Made from 400D PVC Coated Polyester, ensuring water resistance and long-lasting durability.

Pros

  • Spacious, padded, and comfortable for long shooting sessions
  • Non-skid elbow and knee pads for improved stability
  • Includes accessory and pen pockets for extra convenience
  • Bipod preload webbing adds precision shooting support
  • Compact foldable design with a carry handle and shoulder strap for easy transport
  • Includes metal stakes for secure placement in all conditions

Cons

  • Bulkier when folded compared to roll-up models

Get it on Amazon

 

3) VooDoo Tactical Roll-Up Shooter’s Mat

VooDoo Tactical Roll Up Shooter's Mat

 

 

The VooDoo Tactical Roll Up Shooter’s Mat is an excellent choice for marksmen seeking a lightweight, versatile, and highly functional shooting mat.

This mat combines padded protection with a compact design that makes it ideal for both competitive shooting and tactical use. Built with attention to detail, it provides everything a shooter needs for convenience and comfort during extended shooting sessions.

The lightweight padded protection ensures that you can shoot comfortably from the prone position without feeling the harsh ground beneath you. Measuring 69″ long and 48″ at its widest point, this mat gives ample space for shooters of various sizes.

One of its standout features is the fold-out elbow wings, which offer extra surface area to support your arms, enhancing stability and comfort. The mat easily rolls up into a compact size of 8″ x 20″, making it portable and easy to transport to and from the shooting range.

Designed with functionality in mind, the VooDoo Tactical Roll Up Shooter’s Mat includes several practical storage solutions. It features a sewn-in data book pocket with a pen holder, perfect for keeping track of your shooting adjustments and notes. The removable tool pouch, ammo pouch, and bullet slots provide quick and easy access to all your essential gear, ensuring you’re always prepared for your next shot.

Additionally, the adjustable straps with quick-release buckles make setting up and packing away the mat a breeze. For added convenience, the extra male end “E” buckles allow you to attach the mat to your pack, making it even more versatile for field use.

Whether you’re in a competition or a tactical setting, the VooDoo Tactical Roll Up Shooter’s Mat offers both protection and practicality. Its combination of portability, functionality, and thoughtful design elements makes it one of the best shooting mats available for shooters who need a reliable mat in various situations.

Key Features

  • Lightweight and Padded: Offers protection and comfort in the prone shooting position, preventing discomfort from the ground.
  • Fold-Out Elbow Wings: Provides additional support and surface area for your arms, enhancing stability while shooting.
  • Compact and Portable: Rolls up into a compact size of 8″ x 20″, making it easy to transport.
  • Integrated Storage: Includes a sewn-in data book pocket with pen holder, a removable tool pouch, ammo pouch, and bullet slots for quick access to essential items.
  • Quick-Release Buckles and Straps: Adjustable straps with quick-release buckles make setup and takedown simple and efficient.
  • Attachment Compatibility: Extra male end “E” buckles allow the mat to be attached to a pack for easy transport in the field.

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Fold-out elbow wings add extra comfort and support
  • Ample storage for tools, ammo, and shooting data
  • Rolls up into a compact, portable size
  • Adjustable straps and quick-release buckles for easy setup
  • Can be attached to a backpack for convenience

Cons

  • Smaller size may feel less spacious for larger shooters

Get it on Amazon or Optics Planet

 

4) Crosstac Precision Long Range Shooting Mat

Crosstac Precision Long Range Shooting Mat

 

 

The Crosstac Precision Long Range Shooting Mat is designed for shooters who demand comfort, durability, and tactical efficiency during long-range sessions. Made from rugged 1000D Cordura fabric, this mat offers exceptional durability and is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor environments.

Its polyurethane coating on the inside provides reliable water resistance, while the water-repelling exterior ensures that you can use the mat in damp or wet conditions without worrying about your gear or comfort.

One of the standout features of the Crosstac Precision Mat is its integral bipod rail. This built-in rail allows you to securely stabilize your bipod, ensuring greater accuracy and precision when taking long-range shots. This feature is particularly useful for competitive shooters or hunters who need their shots to be consistently accurate.

Additionally, the panel design allows you to carry your weapon inside the mat, reducing the need for additional bags or straps, and making your gear easier to manage when moving between shooting positions or in the field.

The mat’s dimensions, 36 inches by 79 inches, offer plenty of space to shoot from a prone position while remaining comfortable. The ultra-premium foam, rated for use in temperatures as low as -20°F, ensures superior insulation and padding, allowing you to shoot comfortably even in cold weather conditions.

Despite its robust construction, the Crosstac Precision Mat is designed to roll up compactly for easy transport, making it both practical and portable.

Key Features

  • 1000D Cordura Fabric: Durable and water-resistant for long-lasting use in tough outdoor environments.
  • Integral Bipod Rail: Built-in rail for securing your bipod, providing greater shot stability and precision.
  • Weapon-Carrying Panel Design: Allows you to carry your weapon inside the mat, streamlining your gear for convenience.
  • Water Resistance: Polyurethane-coated inside for reliable water resistance and an exterior that repels moisture.
  • Ultra-Premium Foam: Rated to -20°F for enhanced comfort and insulation during cold weather shooting.
  • Large Surface Area: Generous size of 36in x 79in provides ample space for shooting from the prone position.

Pros

  • Durable 1000D Cordura material with water-resistant properties
  • Integrated bipod rail for added stability
  • Can carry a weapon inside the mat, reducing the need for extra bags
  • Comfortable padding that works well in extreme cold
  • Rolls up compactly for easy transportation

Cons

  • Larger size might not suit shooters who prefer more compact mats

Get it on Optics Planet

 

5) LIVANS Tactical Shooting Mat

LIVANS Tactical Shooting Mat

 

The LIVANS Tactical Shooting Mat as one of the best shooting mats is constructed from 900D nylon fabric, this mat provides exceptional durability while keeping you comfortable during long hours spent in prone or kneeling positions. Whether you’re engaging in advanced shooting, hunting, or military applications, the rugged design ensures that the mat can handle the demands of outdoor activities without compromising on user comfort.

One of the standout features of the LIVANS Tactical Shooting Mat is its low-profile and easy roll-up design. It features padding in the elbow area, giving you the necessary comfort while maintaining a slim profile. This lightweight mat rolls up easily into a compact 4″x8″ size, making it incredibly easy to transport.

When unfolded, it provides a generous 78.5″ x 31.5″ surface area, offering ample space for shooters of all sizes. With its compact design and portability, this mat is perfect for shooters who need a lightweight option that doesn’t skimp on performance.

The mat also comes equipped with a stake-down design, featuring metal grommet holes that allow you to pin it to the ground during windy conditions.

This makes it ideal for long-range shooting, hunting, or any outdoor activity where stability is crucial. Additionally, the MOLLE compatibilitywith two rows of 1″ military-spec webbing—provides extra functionality, allowing you to secure extra gear directly to the mat.

Whether you’re in a shooting competition or a tactical environment, this feature adds a practical element for users who need to carry additional equipment.

Lastly, the quick-lock buckles make it easy to roll up and secure the mat for storage. The carry handle further enhances its portability, and the mat comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring that you’re covered if any quality issues arise.

Key Features

  • Durable 900D Nylon Construction: Keeps you comfortable while providing long-lasting durability in demanding conditions.
  • Low-Profile, Lightweight Design: Rolls up into a compact 4″x8″ size with elbow padding for added comfort and portability.
  • Stake-Down Design: Metal grommets for securing the mat to the ground, making it ideal for windy conditions during long-range shooting or hunting.
  • MOLLE Compatible: Equipped with two rows of military-spec webbing to attach extra gear as needed.
  • Quick-Lock Buckles and Carry Handle: Easy to secure, transport, and store, making it convenient for outdoor shooters.

Pros

  • Durable and water-resistant 900D nylon fabric
  • Compact and lightweight design, easy to roll up and carry
  • Metal grommets for staking down in windy conditions
  • MOLLE compatibility for added gear
  • Quick-lock buckles for easy setup and packing

Cons

  • Limited padding, only in the elbow area, which may not provide full-body comfort

Get it on Amazon

 

6) US PeaceKeeper Tactical Shooting Mat

US PeaceKeeper Tactical Shooting Mat

 

 

The US PeaceKeeper Tactical Shooting Mat is widely regarded as one of the best shooting mats on the market, offering a perfect blend of durability, comfort, and practical features. Crafted from rugged 1000D water-resistant nylon, this mat is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor shooting, making it a top choice for competitive shooters, hunters, and tactical professionals alike.

Known for its reliability and excellent design, US PeaceKeeper products are designed to deliver both performance and affordability, and this mat is no exception.

One of the standout features of the US PeaceKeeper Tactical Shooting Mat is its impressive .75-inch thick padding made from high-density closed-cell foam. This ensures that shooters can stay comfortable even on rocky or uneven terrain, without feeling the ground beneath them.

The mat is also generous in size, measuring 81.5″ in length and 36″ in width, which ensures your elbows and legs won’t hang off the edges, giving you a stable shooting platform. Whether you’re shooting in a competition or practicing at the range, this mat is designed to keep you in the zone.

For added functionality, the mat includes a textured, non-slip surface in the elbow area, preventing your arms from sliding while you line up your shot. The inclusion of multiple pockets,such as an ammo pouch and a gusseted pocket for accessories—allows shooters to keep important gear close at hand.

There’s even a ballistic cheat sheet window, which is a great feature for long-range shooters who need quick access to their dope cards. Three quick-release buckle straps make folding the mat and transporting it easy, while the detachable shoulder strap adds to its portability.

Built for those who demand performance, the US PeaceKeeper Tactical Shooting Mat is not just tough but also designed with the shooter in mind, offering all the essentials in a sleek, foldable package. It even comes with a lifetime warranty, further underscoring its quality and durability.

Key Features

  • High-Density Padding: The .75-inch thick closed-cell foam padding provides excellent comfort, ensuring rocks and debris won’t interfere with your shooting.
  • Generous Size: At 81.5″ x 36″, this mat offers ample room, so your elbows and legs stay on the mat, ensuring a stable and comfortable shooting position.
  • Durable Material: Made from water-resistant 1000D nylon, this mat is built to last and can handle tough outdoor conditions.
  • Non-Slip Elbow Surface: Textured areas keep your elbows from sliding, providing added stability during shooting.
  • Multiple Pockets: Includes an ammo pouch, gusseted pocket for accessories, and a ballistic cheat sheet window for quick access to shooting data.
  • Quick Release Buckles: Three wide straps secure the mat when folded for easy transport.
  • Portable Design: Detachable shoulder strap for easy carrying.

Pros

  • Thick padding ensures comfort even on uneven terrain
  • Large size prevents arms and legs from hanging off the mat
  • Durable, water-resistant 1000D nylon construction
  • Convenient pockets for ammo and accessories
  • Non-slip elbow surface for stability
  • Easy to fold and transport with quick-release buckles and shoulder strap
  • Lifetime warranty for peace of mind

Cons

  • Larger folded size might take up more space when transporting

Get it on Amazon

 

7) JIPIMON Tactical Shooting Mat

JIPIMON Tactical Shooting Mat

 

 

The JIPIMON Tactical Shooting Mat stands out as one of the best shooting mats for long-range shooters, hunters, and tactical professionals. Designed with comfort, durability, and convenience in mind, this mat offers exceptional features that enhance any outdoor shooting experience.

Measuring a generous 78 inches in length and 28.5 inches in width, it provides ample room to keep your body clear of mud, dust, or moisture, ensuring a clean and stable shooting platform during extended sessions in the field.

One of the key highlights of the JIPIMON mat is its comfortable design, which includes padded sections specifically for your elbows and knees. This padding ensures that even on uneven or rocky terrain, you’ll have a comfortable and stable shooting experience.

Whether you’re in a prone position for long-range shots or need extra cushioning during hunting or military applications, the JIPIMON mat provides the support you need.

Built to withstand tough outdoor conditions, this mat is made from high-quality 1000D nylon, polyester, and EPE padding fabric. The durable construction ensures that the mat can handle most weather conditions and terrains, offering excellent longevity for those who frequently shoot outdoors. Its water-resistant properties further enhance its performance in the field, keeping you dry and comfortable.

When it comes to portability, the JIPIMON Tactical Shooting Mat excels. Weighing just 900g, it is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry. The mat rolls up compactly and fits into the included carrying bag with a convenient adjustable shoulder strap for effortless transportation.

The bag’s drawstring opening keeps the mat clean and protected when not in use, while a zippered pocket on the bag allows for the storage of small accessories or gadgets, making it even more functional for shooters on the go.

Key Features

  • Extra Large Size: Unfolded dimensions of 78″ x 28.5″ offer ample space, ensuring your entire body stays clean and dry during shooting sessions.
  • Padded Sections: Features thick padding for elbows and knees, providing comfort and stability on uneven ground.
  • Durable Construction: Made from tough 1000D nylon, polyester, and EPE padding fabric, designed to withstand weather and terrain conditions.
  • Lightweight and Portable: Weighs just 900g, making it easy to carry. Comes with a carrying bag featuring an adjustable shoulder strap and drawstring opening.
  • Convenient Storage: The carrying bag includes a zippered pocket for storing gadgets and accessories, adding extra convenience for shooters.

Pros

  • Large surface area ensures full body coverage
  • Padded sections offer comfort and support during long shooting sessions
  • High-quality, durable materials built for tough outdoor conditions
  • Lightweight and easy to carry with an adjustable shoulder strap
  • Convenient storage pocket on the carry bag for accessories

Cons

  • Lacks built-in pockets for ammo or additional gear on the mat itself
  • Not as thickly padded throughout, with padding focused only on elbows and knees

Get it on Amazon

Next Read: 5 Best Shooting Tripods

What are Shooting Mats Made of?

Shooting mats are typically made from durable, weather-resistant materials such as nylon, often 1000D nylon for added toughness, or polyester, which can be coated with polyurethane to offer water-resistant and water-repellent properties. Many shooting mats also feature closed-cell foam or EPE padding for comfort and protection against rough terrain, particularly in key areas like the elbows and knees.

These materials are chosen for their ability to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, provide comfort during long shooting sessions, and ensure easy portability by allowing the mats to roll or fold compactly.

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Shooting Mats

When choosing the best shooting mats, there are several key factors to consider to ensure comfort, durability, and functionality. Here are most important factors:

1) Material Durability

The material of the shooting mat is crucial for its durability and longevity, especially when used in tough outdoor conditions. Most high-quality mats are made from 1000D nylon or polyester, which offer resistance to tears, abrasions, and weather elements.

These materials are also often coated with polyurethane for water resistance, ensuring that the mat can endure various terrains and environmental factors without wearing out quickly. A durable material is essential to withstand regular use during long-range shooting, hunting, or military applications.

2) Padding and Comfort

Shooting often involves lying prone for extended periods, which makes adequate padding a necessity. The best shooting mats feature closed-cell foam or EPE padding, especially around pressure points like the elbows and knees.

Thicker padding, typically around 0.35 to 0.75 inches, provides comfort on uneven or rocky ground, preventing discomfort and fatigue. A well-padded mat allows the shooter to maintain focus and stability without being distracted by discomfort, making it an essential factor for those who shoot regularly.

3) Size and Coverage

A shooting mat should be large enough to fully support the shooter’s body, preventing limbs from hanging off the mat. Mats usually range from 70 to 85 inches in length and 28 to 36 inches in width.

Larger mats provide better coverage, allowing for a full range of movement without pulling the shooter out of position. However, they should also be compact enough when folded or rolled up to be easily transported. The best mats strike a balance between providing ample space when unfolded and easy portability when packed.

4) Portability and Storage

Portability is a significant factor, especially for those who need to carry their mat across long distances. Look for mats that can be easily rolled or folded into compact sizes, often with integrated handles or shoulder straps for convenient transport. Some mats also come with carrying bags or compression straps that make them more manageable.

In addition, mats with quick-release buckles or compact fold designs ensure that they can be set up or stowed away efficiently, which is essential for field use.

5) Non-Slip and Water Resistance

Outdoor shooting often takes place in unpredictable weather and uneven terrains, so a mat’s ability to repel water and provide a non-slip surface is critical. Many high-quality shooting mats are designed with textured, non-slip materials on the underside to prevent the shooter from sliding, especially on wet or slick surfaces.

Mats with water-resistant coatings or materials, such as polyurethane-coated nylon, protect the user from moisture, keeping them dry even in damp or muddy conditions.

6) Additional Features and Functionality

Shooting mats often come with extra features designed to enhance their functionality. Some include built-in bipod rails to stabilize your weapon, pockets for ammo or logbooks, and even ballistic cheat sheet windows for quick reference during competitions.

Others may feature MOLLE-compatible webbing for attaching gear or stake-down grommets to secure the mat in windy conditions. These additional features can make a mat more versatile and user-friendly, improving overall performance and convenience in the field.

7) Price and Value

Lastly, the price-to-value ratio should be considered. While high-end shooting mats often come with premium features such as ultra-durable materials, ample padding, and multiple storage options, it’s essential to evaluate if these extras justify the cost. There are affordable options that still offer decent durability, comfort, and portability. A good shooting mat should offer long-lasting value, making the investment worthwhile for frequent shooters without breaking the bank.

Read Also:  6 Best Shooting Targets for Rifles

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, investing in a quality shooting mat is crucial for enhancing your shooting experience, whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a beginner.

The right mat not only provides comfort and stability but also protects you from dirt, moisture, and uneven surfaces, allowing you to concentrate fully on your target.