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The Complete Guide to AR-15 Grips: Selecting the Perfect Grip for Your Build
Nov
At Dirty Bird Guns and Ammo, we understand that AR-15 grips are of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of AR-15 customization. Whether you’re building a new rifle or upgrading an existing one, your choice of grips – both pistol grip and forward grip – can dramatically impact your shooting performance, comfort, and control. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about selecting the perfect grips for your AR-15.
Understanding AR-15 Grip Types
When discussing AR-15 grips, we need to consider two main categories: AR-15 pistol grips and forward grips. Each serves a distinct purpose in enhancing your control and handling of the rifle.
The pistol grip is your primary interface with the rifle, affecting everything from trigger control to overall shooting comfort. Modern AR-15 pistol grips have evolved significantly from the original A2-style grip, offering various angles, textures, and ergonomic features to enhance shooting performance.
Forward grips, mounted on the handguard, provide additional control and stability. These include vertical foregrips for maximum control during rapid fire, angled foregrips offering a more natural wrist position, hand stops for consistent hand placement, and hybrid designs that combine features of different grip styles.
Popular Pistol Grip Options
Magpul MOE Grip
The Magpul MOE grip stands as the most popular grip on the market today, and for good reason. It perfectly represents Magpul’s unwavering commitment to quality, versatility, and reliability in the AR-15 platform. The MOE grip’s ergonomic design offers a significant improvement over the standard A2 pistol grip, providing enhanced control and comfort for a wide range of shooters. Its durable polymer construction ensures years of reliable service, while the sturdy removable cap allows shooters to store small back-up parts and equipment – a feature that proves invaluable in the field.
For those seeking enhanced grip texture, Magpul offers the MOE+ version, which features a comfortable rubber overmolding that provides additional tackiness and superior grip retention in wet conditions. This rubberized coating gives shooters the added confidence of a non-slip surface while maintaining the same proven ergonomics of the standard MOE. The MOE+ has become particularly popular among shooters who operate in challenging weather conditions or those who simply prefer a softer, more tactile feel.
The grip’s thoughtfully designed texture provides sure handling in various conditions without being overly aggressive, making it comfortable for both casual range sessions and high-round-count training days. The grip angle has been carefully considered to work with modern shooting stances while reducing fatigue during extended use. The MOE’s widespread adoption by both civilian and professional users speaks to its effectiveness and reliability. For shooters looking to upgrade from their standard A2 grip, the MOE represents an excellent value, offering premium features at an accessible price point.
BCM Gunfighter Grip
Favored by many professional users, the BCM Gunfighter features a more vertical grip angle optimized for modern shooting stances. Available in multiple texture options, its slim profile works well with various hand sizes. The grip’s design enhances trigger control and performs excellently in both tactical and competition environments. The more aggressive angle promotes a modern shooting style while maintaining comfort during extended use.
Hogue Overmolded Grip
When comfort is the priority, the Hogue Overmolded Grip stands out from the crowd. Its soft rubber exterior incorporates finger grooves that enhance control without compromising comfort. The grip excels in wet-weather performance and provides superior recoil absorption, making it particularly well-suited for extended range sessions. The overmolded design creates a secure hold that remains comfortable even during high-round-count training days.
Strike Industries Enhanced Pistol Grip
Strike Industries takes a modern approach with their Enhanced Pistol Grip, offering modular construction with adjustable palm swells. These AR-15 grips incorporate various texture options and includes a practical storage compartment. Available in multiple colors and angles, it allows shooters to customize both the functionality and appearance of their rifle while maintaining excellent ergonomics and control.
Forward Grip Options
Vertical Foregrips
Vertical foregrips represent the most traditional approach to forward grip design, offering shooters maximum control over their rifle. These grips provide positive hand placement and excel at recoil management. Many models include storage options for additional functionality. Vertical foregrips prove particularly useful when shooting while wearing plate carriers or body armor, and they excel in close-quarters situations where rapid target transitions are essential.
Hand Stops
For those seeking a minimalist solution, hand stops offer an excellent balance of functionality and simplicity. These low-profile devices prevent forward hand slip while maintaining a slim profile on your handguard. They provide an excellent reference point for consistent hand placement and work particularly well with the modern c-clamp grip technique. The minimal footprint keeps weight down while still offering crucial control benefits.
Hybrid/Angled Foregrips
Hybrid and angled foregrips bridge the gap between vertical grips and hand stops, offering shooters versatility and improved ergonomics. The angled design promotes a natural wrist position that many shooters find comfortable during extended sessions. These grips often prove ideal for longer-range precision work while still maintaining the ability to transition quickly for close-range engagements. Their design makes them a strong choice for shooters who need their rifle to perform across various distances and positions.
Key Factors in Grip Selection
Your shooting style and intended purpose should heavily influence your grip selection. Home defense applications typically demand emphasis on quick target acquisition and positive control. Competition shooters often prioritize speed and the ability to transition smoothly between positions. Precision shooters generally focus on stability and comfort for extended sessions. For general-purpose use, seek a balance of these attributes to maintain versatility.
Personal physiology plays a crucial role in grip selection. Shooters with larger hands often benefit from fuller grip profiles, while those with smaller hands typically find better control with slimmer designs. Consider your finger length when evaluating grips with finger grooves or similar features. The grip angle should complement your natural wrist position and shooting stance.
Material selection significantly impacts both performance and comfort. Modern polymers offer an excellent balance of durability and weight savings. Rubber overmolded AR-15 grips provide maximum comfort and secure handling in various conditions. Some manufacturers offer aluminum options for shooters seeking premium feel and ultimate durability. The texture pattern of your chosen grip becomes particularly important when shooting in adverse conditions.
Environmental considerations should factor into your decision-making process in regards to AR-15 grips. Wet conditions may require more aggressive texturing to maintain positive control. Shooters in hot climates might prefer ventilated designs for comfort during extended sessions. Cold weather use often demands compatibility with gloves. High-volume shooters should prioritize comfort features to prevent fatigue during long range sessions.
Installation Guidance for AR-15 Grips
Installing a new pistol grip requires attention to detail and proper procedure. Always begin by ensuring proper safety protocols are followed and the weapon is clear. When removing the existing grip, take care to maintain control of the safety detent and spring, as these small parts can easily be lost. During installation, ensure proper safety spring engagement before securing the grip screw. Follow manufacturer torque specifications to prevent damage while ensuring secure attachment.
Forward vertical-style grip installation varies depending on your mounting system. Modern handguards typically utilize M-LOK attachment points, while some older designs may use Picatinny rails. Ensure proper alignment before securing any mounting hardware. Many manufacturers recommend using thread-locking compound to prevent loosening during use. Double-check all mounting hardware for proper torque and security before use.
Use-Specific Recommendations for Vertical AR-15 Grips
For home defense applications, consider a vertical foregrip that provides positive control under stress. The pistol grip should feature aggressive texturing to ensure solid purchase in any condition. Ensure your grip choices maintain compatibility with your weapon light setup and other critical accessories.
Competition shooters often benefit from a lightweight hand stop or angled grip that facilitates quick transitions between firing positions. Your pistol grip selection should optimize trigger reach and control for rapid, accurate fire. Pay particular attention to how your grip choice affects your ability to maintain a consistent shooting position.
General-purpose applications call for versatile grip configurations that perform well across multiple scenarios. A moderately textured pistol grip paired with a hand stop or short vertical grip often provides the best balance of control and adaptability. Focus on comfort and control rather than specialized features that might limit versatility.
AR-15 Grips Final Thoughts
Selecting the right grips for your AR-15 is a personal decision that depends on various factors including your shooting style, physical characteristics, and intended use. While there’s no universal “best” option, understanding the advantages and limitations of different grip types will help you make an informed decision.
Remember that AR-15 grips are not just about comfort – it’s about enhancing your control, accuracy, and overall shooting performance. Consider trying different options at your local range or borrowing from fellow shooters before making your final decision. The right grip combination can significantly improve your shooting experience and capabilities with your AR-15.