Ever found yourself eye-to-eye with a rifle, prone in the wilderness, and feeling every pebble, thorn, and jagged edge beneath you? Trust me, the romance of getting down and dirty loses its appeal real quick when discomfort kicks in. Enter the unsung hero of every shooter’s arsenal: the shooting mat. Having the best shooting mats not only protects you and your rifle but also helps you focus solely on the shot, with no distractions and no discomfort.

If you’re wondering whether a shooting mat is really necessary, let me tell you—it’s not just a luxury, it’s a must. Unless you enjoy feeling every rock and twig beneath you, or risking damage to both yourself and your rifle, a good shooting mat is essential. With so many mat options on the market, you might be thinking, “Which one’s right for me?”. Well, don’t worry. In this article, I’ve done all the legwork for you, so read on to find the best shooting mat for your needs.

How I Set Out To Review The Best Shooting Mats

As someone who’s spent hundreds of hours prone shooting, both on active duty and in competitions, I’m very familiar with all the different types of shooting mats. I own quite a few of them and have even been sent some by the companies for review.

When I started writing this article, I compiled all of the mats that made a positive impression on me. Then, to make sure I wasn’t missing anything, I contacted some of my peers in the industry to discuss their favorite mats and got their input as well. Because of this, I am able to give you a comprehensive rundown of the top-notch tactical mats available today. So, let’s get right into it.

List of the Best Shooting Mats

Like I said earlier, there are certain things that make each different, and depending on what you’ll be using it for, one might be a better option for you. However, there really are 5 shooting mats that I know will be a good pick for you, and I’ve tried to make it so each one below is better suited for specific use types.

Here is a list of my favorite shooting mats:

1. Crosstac Precision Range Shooting Mat
2. US Peacekeeper Shooting Mat
3. Voodoo Tactical Shooters Mat
4. MidwayUSA Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat
5. Padded Magic Carpet Mat

Best Shooting Mats

1. Crosstac Precision Range Shooting Mat		Bipod rail Panel design 1000-Denier cordura, water resistant	Check Amazon
2. US Peacekeeper P20300 Tactical Shooting Mat		Water-resistant 1000 denier nylon Fully padded, high density cell foam Folded ammo pouch, gusseted pocket	Check Amazon
3. Voodoo Tactical Roll Up Shooter’s Mat		Imported Designed for the field High durability and reliability Integrates with your other equipment	Check Amazon
4. Midwayusa Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat		Sturdy corner grommets Elbow and knee pads Legal for High Power/CMP rifle matches Legal for Smallbore competition	Check Amazon
5. Padded Magic Carpet Mat		Constructed Heavy Duty PVC Minimalist Shooter’s Mat. Heavy Duty Light Weight Elastic bands for easy Transportation	Check Price

Reviews

Above, I listed my favorites on the market. Now, in this section, I’m going to give some details on each and discuss why I listed them in this order. As you’ll see, there is some room for argument here, and if you have any experience with any of these, be sure to leave a grade on that mat, as well as discuss it in the comments.

With that said, let’s look at each:

Crosstac Precision Range Shooting Mat Review

The Crosstac Precision Range Shooting Mat stands as the pinnacle of shooting mats—it’s the high-end choice, and let me tell you, it’s worth every bit of its price. From the moment I unrolled it, the stability and comfort it offered became apparent. This isn’t just a mat; it’s a platform that ensures a stable shooting base, ideal for long-range precision shooting.

What sets this apart is the superior cushioning and durability. The foam construction is top-notch, maintaining both comfort and stability even in challenging conditions. It’s the sort of reliability that doesn’t compromise; it keeps me focused on my shot, not on the discomfort of the ground.

Sure, it’s on the pricier side, but for serious shooters or those planning extended sessions, this investment pays dividends. The size, when laid out, is perfect—ample room for both me and my gear, keeping everything clean and off the ground. Admittedly, when folded, it’s a tad bulky, but that’s a small trade-off for the quality it delivers.

For me, the decision was clear: I wanted a mat that mirrored the standards of serious marksmanship. The Crosstac Precision Range Shooting Mat emerged as the best overall choice for its durability, comfort, and stable platform—traits that make it indispensable for anyone serious about their shooting game.

For a review of this mat, check out the Crosstac Precision Range Shooting Mat Review here.

Crosstac Precision Range Shooting Mat Pros and Cons

US Peacekeeper P20300 Tactical Shooting Mat Review

I have to say, the US Peacekeeper P20300 Tactical Shooting Mat has been a game-changer for my precision shooting endeavors. Ranked second among the best shooting mats, it’s earned its spot for a couple of solid reasons.

First off, this thing is a beast – super thick and quite sizable at 72″ in length and 36″ in width. That might not suit everyone looking for portability, but for durability and comfort, it’s unbeatable. The ample space ensures my elbows stay comfortably on the mat without dangling off, providing the stability needed for a steady shot.

Sure, it’s a bit bulkier compared to some other options, but when I’m setting up for those long-range shooting sessions, this mat is my go-to. The non-slip area for elbows, pockets for ammo, and even a ballistic cheat sheet window are thoughtful add-ons that make it stand out.

If I had to nitpick, I’d mention its bulkiness as a potential travel hassle. But for dedicated shooting sessions where I need that extra padding and space, this mat is a winner. Its versatility and sturdiness make it a reliable companion across various shooting environments, ensuring years of dependable service.

Check out our US Peacekeeper Shooting Mat Review here.

US Peacekeeper Shooting Mat Pros and Cons

Voodoo Tactical Roll Up Shooter’s Mat Review

Ranked third among the best shooting mats, the Voodoo Tactical Roll Up Shooter’s Mat stands out for its remarkable lightweight design. Personally, I’ve found its quick roll-up feature incredibly convenient, making setup and packing up a breeze during shooting sessions. However, this mat lands in the third spot due to a few factors.

While its weight and portability are unparalleled, I noticed a slight trade-off in padding. This lack of substantial padding became noticeable after a couple of uses, especially when spending extended periods in the prone position. The discomfort in my elbows highlighted this issue. Despite this, the mat’s clever design with additional pockets and elbow room did enhance its usability. The ability to attach it to my rifle case has been a game-changer for my shooting gear setup, adding a practical touch.

A helpful tip I discovered is folding the mat before rolling it up to maintain a clean surface for subsequent use. This feature has proven invaluable, especially when transitioning between shooting positions on various surfaces.

Although it doesn’t top my personal list due to the padding concerns, the Voodoo Tactical Roll Up Shooter’s Mat earns its spot for shooters tight on space or those seeking extreme portability without compromising too much on functionality.

Check out the full Voodoo Tactical Mat Review here.

Voodoo Tactical Roll Up Shooter’s Mat Pros and Cons

MIDWAYUSA Pro Series Competition Shooting Mat Review

The MidwayUSA mat is such a great mat! I like this mat as it is a great shooting mat for tactical and long range shooters. Midway mats are known for their durability and stable shooting platforms, and this one is no exception.

I really like how the MidwayUSA Competition mat provides just enough padding to make it comfortable. It also is super portable with a great shoulder strap and has a ton of pouches for ammo and whatever else you need stored. it’s also easy to clean and maintain.

However, this Midway mat is a little too big for my taste. While it excels in comfort and functionality, its size might deter those seeking a more streamlined option, especially if you’re used to the simplicity of an original competition shooting mat, which tends to be more compact and lightweight. Compared to the top 3 mats, the MidwayUSA mat leans towards the bulkier side, impacting its portability and overall convenience. That said, if size isn’t a concern for you, then this padded mat is still a solid choice and will provide a comfortable shooting position.

You can find our full MidwayUSA Shooting Mat review here.

MIDWAYUSA Shooting Mat Pros and Cons

Padded Magic Carpet by Eberlestock Review

If you’re looking for a minimalist, light-weight shooting mat, the Magic Carpet by Eberlestock is a great choice. As the fifth pick on my list, it strikes a fine balance between cost and performance, making it a practical investment for any shooter.

As mentioned, the Magic Carpet shooting mat is light-weight and rolls up into a small package which is great to hang off the side of your range bag or rifle case and won’t weigh you down when you’re on the move.

This might not be the best shooting mat, but it made my list because it really is another top-of-the-line tactical shooting mat to have. It’s made from durable materials and is padded for comfort. It’s very well made and very comfortable to shoot on. I would highly recommend this mat to any serious shooter.

Its padding might not be the thickest, yet it delivers a commendable level of comfort for those extended hours at the range. This mat has been a reliable companion during my shooting sessions, offering a decent level of support without being too hefty on the wallet.

For an individual review of this mat, check it out here.

Magic Carpet Shooting Mat Pros and Cons

Buyers Guide

If you’re shooting long-range or generally shooting in the prone position, you’re going to want a shooting mat. Spending a bit of time at the range in the prone position won’t be fun if you’re dealing with rocks sticking into you or dust blowing up in your face. A shooting mat will help make your day a little more comfortable and it’s a great addition to your shooting accessories.

Below I will be going into some considerations when looking for a shooting mat starting with the times you might want one, and then looking more into the features.

Purpose – The first question you should be asking yourself is what you are planning on using your mat for. Here are some common uses for a shooting mat.

• Long-range shooting – If you’re into long-range shooting, you know that you’re going to want to be comfortable. Whether you’re in a shooting competition, or you’re just at the range to confirm your dope, you’re going to want something that’s padded and generally a little larger than a mat that you’d take hunting. I like a mat that is a little wider and has some comfortable padding. I also don’t need to roll this up super small or lightweight as it’s generally just going from the truck to the ground.
• Hunting – If you’re new to hunting, now you know that the key to success is having the right gear. A lightweight, waterproof option that will roll into a small package that you can hang off your pack is a great addition to your next trip.
• Zeroing your scope – Generally, you’re probably not spending a lot of time setting up your scope and zeroing it in. Yes, it’s an important step that you should take a little bit of time on, but it’s not going to be hours. But having a simple, lightweight mat that you can set up on the ground will get you out of the dirt and dust. I love my shooting mat for this – I can take my time, get all my mounting tools out, and set up my little ‘workspace’ well without losing anything in the dirt.

Materials – The best tactical mats are made from durable materials that can withstand repeated use and abuse. If you’re going to use it for extended periods of time when shooting long range, or if you’re planning on taking a mat hunting, consider a mat that’s more resistant to water– you don’t want water soaking through the mat over time or a moisture soaked mat growing mold in your hunting gear.

Size – Consider the size of the mat. You want a mat that is large enough to provide a stable platform but not so large that it gets in the way or is difficult to transport. A good idea is to lie down in the prone shooting position on the floor at home with your firearm comfortably in front of you and take note of where your elbows sit and where your legs go. This will give you an idea of the width and length you’ll need. This is not a science, it’s just a guide to estimate your body’s footprint so you get something that will support you and be comfortable.

Features – Consider the features you need. Some tactical mats come with features like built-in ammo pouches and gun rests. These can be helpful, but they are not essential. Some features that I look for are a mat that has extra padding for comfortable shooting, a storage pocket for my dope book, and a shoulder strap and handles for easy transport. I also like to get an adjustable strap that I can then tether the mat to my rifle case.

Best Shooting Mats – FAQs

What features should I look for in a shooting mat?

Look for durability, water resistance, and enough padding for comfort. If you plan on shooting for long periods, extra features like non-slip surfaces, ammo pouches, or even knee/elbow pads can be a nice bonus.

Are heavier shooting mats better?

Not always. Heavier mats usually offer more padding and durability, which is great for rough terrains or long-range shooting. But if you need something portable for frequent moves, a lighter mat might be a better fit. It’s all about finding the right balance.

How do I maintain my shooting mat?

Most mats just need a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after use. For stubborn dirt, use mild soap. Just make sure to store it in a dry spot to avoid mold or material damage.

Will a shooting mat keep me dry on wet ground?

Many mats are water-resistant, but it varies. If you’re shooting in soggy conditions, look for one with better waterproofing or even consider using a tarp underneath for extra protection. Check the material details if you expect wet ground.