ABI Force Rigid Drag Mat Review: Infield Maintenance Made Easy

Maintaining a pristine infield is crucial for optimal gameplay, and the ABI Force Rigid Drag Mat revolutionizes this process. This innovative tool offers groundskeepers an efficient and versatile solution for pre-game preparation and in-game touch-ups, significantly reducing the time and effort required for infield maintenance. Its robust design tackles various field conditions, from sandy to clay-heavy surfaces, ensuring consistent results regardless of the terrain.The ABI Force Rigid Drag Mat excels through its unique combination of features. A tapered leveling bar precisely distributes material, addressing low spots and ensuring a smooth playing surface. A sturdy steel mesh effectively smooths out bumps and cleat marks, leaving the field in peak condition. Combined with a convenient pivot lift system, this drag mat offers unparalleled control and maneuverability, making it a valuable asset for any groundskeeping team striving for efficiency and quality.

Pros And Cons

ABI rigid drag mag
  • Six-foot reach
  • Tapered leveling bar for material movement
  • Steel rigid mesh for a smooth finish and removal of undulations/cleat marks
  • Tapered edges to prevent material escape during spins
  • Engineered slop in hitch point for manipulation and leveling bar adjustment
  • Pivot lift system for tapered lifting off the field
  • Suitable for quick pre-game or in-between drags
  • Effective for various infield mixes (sandy, clay, limestone)

Read more: Heavy-Duty Baseball Drag Mat: 5 Top-Rated Choices

Overview: The ABI Force Rigid Drag Mat

The ABI Force Rigid Drag Mat is a versatile tool designed for efficient infield maintenance. Its six-foot reach and robust construction make it suitable for various field conditions, from sandy to clay-heavy surfaces, even those with limestone shavings. This drag mat excels at pre-game preparation and quick touch-ups between innings, addressing surface irregularities with ease.

Close-up of the ABI Force Rigid Drag Mat, highlighting its six-foot reach and leveling bar.
Close-up of the ABI Force Rigid Drag Mat, highlighting its six-foot reach and leveling bar.

The design incorporates a tapered leveling bar for adjusting material distribution and a steel rigid mesh for smoothing out undulations and cleat marks. Its compact and maneuverable design makes it a practical addition to any groundskeeping arsenal. This tool effectively addresses common infield issues.

Performance and Features

The tapered leveling bar effectively moves material, addressing low spots created during gameplay. The steel mesh smooths out any bumps or divots caused by cleats, leaving a pristine playing surface. Its functionality extends beyond simple leveling; it efficiently addresses common field irregularities, improving playability.

Demonstration of the leveling bar's adjustability.
Demonstration of the leveling bar's adjustability.

The six-inch taper on the edges prevents material from escaping during turns, maintaining a clean and consistent finish. The engineered slop in the hitch point allows for easy manipulation of the leveling bar, offering flexibility in adjusting its position or fully removing it for mesh-only use. This adjustability enhances the drag mat's overall versatility.

Highlighting the six-inch taper on the edges of the drag mat.
Highlighting the six-inch taper on the edges of the drag mat.

Ease of Use and Maneuverability

The pivot lift system allows for controlled raising and lowering of the drag mat, ensuring smooth transitions between dragging and transport. The ability to lift the leveling bar independently before the mesh makes field-to-field transitions seamless, minimizing disruption. This feature is particularly beneficial in multi-field complexes.

Showing the drag mat in action, emphasizing ease of use.
Showing the drag mat in action, emphasizing ease of use.

Its compact design ensures ease of maneuverability. It's designed for quick, efficient work, making it a time-saver for groundskeepers. The lightweight yet durable construction allows for a one-pass drag, significantly reducing the time needed for field preparation and maintenance.

Final Verdict

The ABI Force Rigid Drag Mat proves to be a valuable asset for infield maintenance. Its combination of features, including the leveling bar, steel mesh, and pivot lift system, makes it exceptionally versatile and efficient. The ease of use and durable construction justify the investment for groundskeepers seeking to improve field quality.

The presenter giving a positive review of the product.
The presenter giving a positive review of the product.

While the price point might be higher than some basic drag mats, the superior performance, time-saving features, and long-term durability make it a worthwhile investment for those who value efficiency and quality infield maintenance. The ABI Force Rigid Drag Mat stands out due to its versatility and ease of use, making it a top choice for groundskeepers.