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Providing a clean and durable work surface in the field, the Field Mat is a collaborative effort between Emdom USA and Military Morons to give shooters the ability to carry accessories or cleaning supplies in a collapsible roll.

Released in 2019, the Field Mat is a 23″ (L) x 19″ (W) cut of nylon (Multicam is 500D Cordura while other colors are 1000D) that provides for an easily transportable working space that can be used to cover any space. From there disassembly of firearms, stored cleaning tools, or secured accessories can utilized. Each corner of the mat metal grommets that allow for it to be secured to any surface as necessary.

On one side of the unrolled mat are two 9″ (L) x 3″ (W) x 1″ (H) accessories pouches that can be opened and laid flat to maximize access. Inside each are a variety of different sized pouches secured via hook-and-loop that can accommodate a variety of items, such as cleaning rods, bore snakes, weapon lights, multi-tools, and more. On the top exterior of the left accessory pouch is a 4” (L) x 2” (W) (female) hook-and-loop field for name tapes or morale patches.

In front of the right-side accessory pouch is a 6” (L) x 4” (W) field of (female) hook-and-loop that comes with a 14” length of 1” wide of VELCRO® BRAND ONE-WRAP® Tape that can be cut to desired lengths. Emdom recommends two 4” lengths and two 3” lengths that can be used to secure springs, pins, and other small parts to the hook-and-loop field.

In front of the left-side accessory pouch is a removable 7″ (W) x 7″ (L) dump tray made from an oil-resistant, rubberized material and secured to the mat via hook-and-loop on the underside. The tray is a high visibility blue that allows for darker parts, such as pins, springs, etc. to be more easily identifiable. Snap-closures in each corner allow the tray to either lay flat when not in use or secured to for the tray.

On the underside of the field mat is an 8″ (W) x 18″ (L) storage pocket divided into two compartments and secured via a single full-length zipper enclosure.

Two shock cord loops on one side of the mat keep it secure when compressed or rolled, while a 1” nylon webbing loop between the accessory pouches facilitates in carrying, hanging, or to secure it.

The Field Mat is available in Multicam (featured), Black, Coyote, SDU Grey, and Ranger Green.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Good (4/5): At an MSRP of $58.99 (color dependent), the Field Mat by Emdom USA gives the user a portable and secure means to store a variety of accessories and cleaning supplies. Roughly the size of a rolled towel, the Field Mat contains a number of useful features for immediate action and care of the firearm, or storage of suppressors and other shooting accessories needed. Condor previously had a Roll-Up Cleaning Mat ($19.99) similar to the one by Emdom, but did not have anything near the functionality and as eventually discontinued. Turbon does also make a roll-up Cleaning Mat ($30) that is similar but also specifically just for cleaning accessories. The Field Mat from Emdom combines a number of features and storage that allow the mat to expand use beyond just for simple after range cleaning, and as such gives it a good scoring for cost.
• Durability – Good (4/5): Made dominantly from 500D Cordura (for Multicam, or 1000D nylon in any other color), the only aspect of the Field Mat material that isn’t nylon was the rubberized dump tray, the outer material inside the zippered accessory pockets, and the shock cord retention bands. All of which held up well during use, for both cleaning and transporting. Eventually oil and carbon did begin to impart to the nylon, but per Emdom, the mat (with the dump tray removed) was able to be easily hand washed. The dump tray itself was simply wiped off as well and during the course of evaluation did not stain. Given the durability and abrasion resistance to the 500D materials, it is more likely that the shock cords securing the rolled up field mat will fail over the long term, before the field mat itself and thankfully those are easily replaced. Overall the simplicity and materials in the Field Mat gave it a good scoring for its durability and long term usage.
• Functionality – Excellent (5/5): From a functional aspect the Field Mat did an excellent job in a more purposeful design and improved materials over older versions. The YKK zippers kept the accessory pouches secure and slid easily. There was a little difficulty in turning the tight corners some, but nothing that inhibited access. The accessory pouches were large enough for a variety of firearms-related accessories, so the option was there for those who want to transport the bolt carrier group securely in the pouch, and break their carbine down into an upper/lower carry. Likewise, there could be the ability to transport a suppressor as well as tools in one accessory pouch, as well as cleaning tools in the other. Otherwise the large mat provided plenty of room that gave the user a clean space to work on firearms, and the dump tray gave a secure space for smaller pieces without risk of blowing away and spilling the contents. When rolled and secure, the interior nylon loop also gave a convenient means by which to hang or secure the mat to a pack or cable via carabiner (not included).
• Weight – Average (3/5): At 11 ounces (empty), the Field Mat’s relative weight provided a good way to compartmentalize, carry, or store needed accessories and/or cleaning tools. While the overall weight of the mat increases with what is contained, either way it can only hold a fixed volume. For its use, and the limited number of comparable products on the current market, made for the Field Mat to be of an approximate (or of average) weight for the materials used. A heavier denier of nylon besides 500D and 1000D could be used to make the product more abrasive resistant – but doing so would also increase the weight and therefor in its current configuration it gave the perfect balance.

Overall Rating – Good (16/20)

Product Link: https://www.emdomusa.com/Emdom-MM-Field-Mat-p/eu177.htm

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via STL Shooting Enthusiasts, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

Bringing together dual fabrics, the Warlock Insulated Glove by Viktos combines the padded features of cold-weather gloves and added textured grip to provide the wearer with greater tactile control, durability, and improved comfort.

Made from a dual chassis using an insulated fabric backhand, with an AX suede Laredo leather palm, the Warlock Insulated Glove affords a good-degree of cold weather protection with adequate enclosure around the hand and fingers. This synthetic leather extends up and around the front half of each finger and thumb for increased protection. Flexible four-way stretch fabric between the fingers allows for in-depth articulation.

On the top of each finger is a welded Thermo Plastic Rubber (TPR) panel for added protection.

Between the thumb and forefinger are reinforced segments that will protect the hand web and material from compromise, be it through abrasion or impact. This is especially good for handgun users of compact and sub-compact handguns due to risk of contact with the slide.

Each finger includes touch-screen compatible segments for use on smartphones or other devices. 

The Warlock Insulated Glove features a hook-and-loop enclosure around the wrist bone that secures the glove, as well as anchors a nylon pull loop that aids in donning the glove.

The Warlock Insulated Glove is available in Greyman (featured), Black, Ranger, Coyote and Black Camo with sizing between Small to 3XL.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Excellent (5/5): With its list price of $45, the Warlock Insulated Glove by Viktos is an affordable option for moderate cold weather gloves that will likely extend the end-user’s time longer than other light-use range/duty gloves. The leather and padded chassis will help ensure abrasion and impact resistance against most of the expected contact points to be encountered, while still being comfortable. In comparison, some of the market alternatives for this type of glove would include SKD’s PIG High Altitude Glove Cold Weather ($64.95), First Spear’s Operator Glove ($82.97), or the Coldshot Sensor Gloves ($50.00) from Outdoor Research. And while the market has a diverse range for this type of accessory in terms of design and material, the Warlock Insulated Glove was the more affordable for its design giving it a excellent rating for its overall cost and the market.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The padding on the back chassis of the Warlock gave the gloves a very comfortable feel, being soft enough to contour across the back of the hand while still affording full coverage. Likewise, the leather palm was not stiff nor rigid, and easily contoured to the various surfaces encountered or firearm grip. The thumb and fingertips left a minor amount of bulk due to the difference/transition in materials and the rest of the fingers that utilize breathable four-way stretch fabric, but this was also beneficial as a cold weather glove due to the fact these will be the contact points that take the most abrasion and feel exposure to temperature first. Flexibility around the wrist was comfortable due to the elastic panel on the top of the glove that worked in conjunction with the hook-and-loop tab on the bottom. This way a secure and comfortable fit was achieved.
• Durability – Average (3/5): While the Warlock did provide light-to-moderate range use, the leather palms gave it an appropriate (or average) level or durability that protected the hand from most hard surfaces (save for puncture or slashing surfaces that would often necessitate a Kevlar lining). The same leather material also extended from the palm, down the bottom length of the fingers, and around the front half of the fingers. This ensured the fingertips were properly protected from hard or abrasive surfaces. The stitching appeared to be one continual line throughout most of the glove, with only bartack added to minimal stress points. And while the hook-and-loop (male) panel does also double as a point of anchoring for the nylon loop, again there was minimal reinforcement stitching and some minor fraying was noted of the nylon loop over continual contact to hook-and-loop (male) segments. Additionally, some “plucking” of the exterior fabric to the backhand was noted during the period of review after brushing the Warlock up against harsher hook-and-loop (male) panels of plate carriers, and an issue that could become exacerbated over greater time.
• Functionality – Fair (2/5): From a functional aspect, the Warlock Cold Weather Glove did what was expected, it protected the backhand with its non-slip style of padding material, while giving the palm and fingers extended protection with a pliable leather. Placing the hook-and-loop enclosure on the bottom of the wrist gave the strap an added bonus of not snagging on surfaces encountered, accessories, or other items on the outward facing side of the wrist. With little noted re-enforcement stitching, the nylon loop was better suited as a means to finish fitting the Warlock once already on the hand, or a means by which to hang the glove. Using it as the sole means to don the Warlock will most likely result in the eventual stitching’s failure, as some people tend to put on range/duty gloves like they are donning nitrile gloves for surgery. One negative function noted was the inconsistently to utilize the integrated touch-screen aspect of the Warlock’s finger tips. Using an iPhone during evaluations, while the screen and larger icons could be manipulated with some trial-and-error—smaller commands/functions or icons couldn’t be readily selected with any precision as the glove’s signature against the touchpad would blot out the desired area. Viktos may want to changing the stitch design more as a triangle at the fingertips and allow for a more focused point of screen control.
• Weight – Average (3/5): Weighing 2.9 ounces for the pair at a size large, the Warlock Insulated Glove was a lightweight and insulated additive to the range in the modest winter weather. Its materials, thickness, and size did not contribute to overall bulk or restriction in range of motion, and otherwise kept the fingers/hand comfortable. Alternatively, the SKD’s PIG High Altitude Glove Cold Weather (3.0 ounces), First Spear’s Operator Glove (2.8 ounces), or the Coldshot Sensor Gloves (3.9 ounces) from Outdoor Research.. Given the listed market alternatives, they all demonstrate that the Warlock is of an appropriate (or average) weight among its competitors.

Overall Rating – Above Average (17/25)

Product Link: https://www.viktos.com/collections/gloves/products/warlock-insulated-gloves

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.

As the days begin to warm, it can be difficult to remain cool on a sunbathed range range while wearing the traditional collared shirt or polo. Viktos has developed the Range Trainer Coolmax Polo that affords the wearer an ideal level of breathability and light woven fabric that will still allow one to keep a professionalized appearance.

Released in 2022, the Range Trainer Coolmax Polo uses a proprietary Coolmax fabric (polyester blend) specifically designed for its four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and passage of heat. The fabric is permeated with Silvadur, which uses silver ions bound to the polyester to reduce unwanted odors.

At the neck, the Range Trainer has a professional collar for a comfortable fit, with hidden snap buttons to ensure a secure closure. A fabric loop provides an anchor point for clip-on microphones, lanyards, sunglasses, or other similar devices.

Both shoulders have added NyCo (a nylon-cotton ripstop blend) reinforcement for added abrasion resistance against rifle slings, gear, or other surfaces.

The left sleeve features a single pen slot that is easily accessible and provides for a place to keep writing aids, pen lights or other similar items.

At the bottom, the hem of the shirt is a split-tail design with a slight extended coverage on the back to mitigate pulling when bent over or stretching.

The Range Trainer Coolmax Polo is available in Greyman (featured), Multicam Black, and Black while comes in sizes between XSmall and 3XL.

Product Evaluation Scores:

• Cost – Average (3/5): At an MSRP of $70, the Range Trainer Coolmax Polo is one of several shirts in the Viktos product line, and one intent on giving a more professionalized appearance for the end-user on range or elsewhere. Made of a variety of lightweight materials, the design of the Range Trainer is to provide added reinforcement to high-abrasion areas, while providing the breathability over typical 100% cotton polos. Alternatives for the Range Trainer Coolmax Polo include 5.11’s Performance Polo ($48.00), the Coldblack Short Sleeve Polo ($55.99) from Vertx, or the Caliber Polo ($75.00) from Triple Aught Design. The market price for range collard shirts is driven by design and (predominantly) material, thus the Range Trainer Coolmax Polo provides a light and effective shirt that gives the wearer comfort and breathability on the range at an appropriate (or average) cost.
• Comfort – Good (4/5): The Range Trainer had a great deal of breathability in the fabric due to its light and open weave pattern. This allowed for easy airflow across the shoulders and upper back that notably assisted in heat mitigation. The difference in comparison to a regular cotton shirt or collared polo was apparent as the Range Trainer’s lightweight polyester material felt more flexible, and offered improved moisture wicking. This made it ideal for wear in the summer when ventilation is key, but less so in obviously winter due to heat loss. The reinforced shoulder panels also added a fair degree of abrasion prevention to the neck and shoulders from rifle slings or other associated gear. Multiple wash cycles did yield in a slight curl of the collar (likely due to tightening of the fabric in the dryer), but nothing that was easily remedied with light ironing.
• Durability – Average (3/5): While the Range Trainer was made from a polyester blend of material that remained light and breathable, it had the same level of durability as other range shirts. The fabric was still susceptible to some stains or other resins common to carbon and other elements (and although color fade from UV exposure was not noted with the Greyman version—it could be something experienced with darker colored versions of the polo). While the polyester would provide some level of durability when worn with other gear, during movement it was observed when the polo was pressed against (female) hook-and-loop, the fabric did snag/pull slightly at the threading. It’s likely that over time and with enough heavy wear/abrasion the Range Trainer will likely need to be replaced, but this is common among most shirts for range use.
• Functionality – Good (4/5): While the Range Trainer was intended as a base layer polo that provided a professional appearance, maintained good breathability, and an appropriate abrasion resistance, the Silvadur material did provide some minor level of day-long odor control provided the shirt was given a typical level of body oil associated to sweat (which in turn is associated to the bacteria that exists naturally). Naturally, when not cleaned, then the Silvadur material was over-whelmed by the standing odor of unwashed clothing. So take the hint, and wash your clothes guys after wearing it. Otherwise the reinforced shoulder panels served as the main useful purpose for the Range Trainer and helped defray the abrasion or a rifle sling well. The concealed snap buttons also helped to maintain a lowered exterior appearance so as not to appear overly-formal, but functional to keep the collar secured for the duration of time on the range. Other design elements like the pen pocket and radio loop were good accents for those needing those aspects. One recommendation would be the length of the polo’s rear material could have been slightly longer than currently to prevent slippage, as over time and with more dynamic movements that necessitated bending at the waist often cause the back of the polo to ride up, (thus necessitating to be tucked back in afterwards). A longer rear length would ensure even at max bend, the polo remains tucked in under the belt line.
• Weight – Average (3/5): At a mere 9.3 ounces (for a reviewed XL), the Range Trainer Coolmax Polo had a similar weight to those of other range or cotton shirts with similar features and materials. The Coolmax fabric and Silvadur treatment afforded the shirt to be very light and breathable, while not making the overall fabric excessively heavy (esp. when wet or when the fabric was burdened with sweat). In contrast, 5.11’s Performance Polo (6.8 ounces), the Coldblack Short Sleeve Polo (8.46 ounces) from Vertx, or the Caliber Polo (7.33 ounces) from Triple Aught Design all illustrate that while the weight varies in mere ounces, the Range Trainer Coolmax Polo was still the heaviest option and appropriate (or average) amid the market with its added reinforcement whereas others did not.

Overall Rating – Above Averge (17/25)

Product Link: https://www.viktos.com/products/range-trainer-polo

I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.

The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.