Hand-Picked Daily GUN DEALS, and Exclusive Coupons Codes >>>

8 Best AR-15 Foregrips [Hands-On]: Vertical & Angled

Want more control of your AR-15? We hands-on review some of the most popular options from traditional vertical grips to angled and even some special foregrips.

The AR-15 market in the United States is saturated with just about every kind of accessory you might even think you’d need…everything from lights, bayonets, to even chainsaws.  

Banish 30 Gold on AR-15
Not a chainsaw…but still a fun upgrade!

But what about foregrips? What are some options for those?

Lucky for you, we’re going to tackle that very subject…

And tell you about some great ones that are on the market, how to use them, and what they can do for you.

Best AR-15 Foregrips
Best AR-15 Foregrips

So, let’s jump in!

Table of Contents

Loading...

What is an AR-15 Foregrip?

It can actually describe a pretty broad category of devices you add to the handguard in order to offer a different kind of grip.  

When holding an AR-15, shooters typically hold the handguard under the bottom with their support hand in a cupping grip.

However, over the years different objects have been added to these handguards to change the way the support hand merges with the gun.  

This is often based on the personal preferences of the shooter.

What Does It Do?

The general idea of the foregrip is to help you with recoil control.

While the AR platform chambered in .223 or 5.56 is not an untamable beast when you pull the trigger, rapid fire or full-auto variants can make it more difficult to control shot placement.  

The concept of the foregrip is a handle, offering more resistance to recoil impulse than a round handguard, which allows you to snug the rifle harder into your shoulder.  

You can also push foregrips into barricades to stabilize shooting positions.

In this article, I’m going to cover a few foregrip sub-categories: vertical, horizontal, and special.  

Vertical foregrips are pretty common and they are essentially a bar mounted to the bottom of the handguard of an AR.  

Referred to as the “broomstick” in the military, the vertical foregrip has come in a few different variations and they offer some distinct advantages.

AR-15 Slidefire, Lisa Jean
AR-15 Slidefire, Lisa Jean

Horizontal is a category that means the grip typically runs more along the bottom of the handguard, but it still manages to give you more of a grip to pull the rifle into your shoulder.

Special grips are exactly that. They may base their design on one of the above categories but are different enough to warrant a special section of their own.

Best Vertical Grips & Foregrips

1. Daniel Defense Vertical Grip

This vertical grip is an excellent choice. Made of polymer, it comes in different colors and will work with Keymod or M-LOK so you can pick the one that works best for your rifle.  

A prime example of the vertical foregrip, it is shaped to fit the hand with rounded edges and flat sides.

Daniel Defense Vertical Grip
Daniel Defense Vertical Grip

It’s 3.25-inches tall and 2-inches wide, so it fits most hands.  

Shooters with larger mitts will feel like their hand is hanging off a bit but they will still have good purchase.

This grip points straight down and allows the shooter to grab it and pull the rifle into the shoulder more firmly.

In the next photo, you can see a variant of the traditional broomstick grip, more of a ¾ grip where the bottom of the handguard is still used, but the grip provides resistance to the rear.

Daniel Defense Vertical Grip (2)
Daniel Defense Vertical Grip

Shooters using this grip will notice a difference in controlling the recoil impulse. A sight picture is typically not that tough to reacquire when using the grip to pull the buttstock into your shoulder.

In addition, it changes the ergonomics of the support arm causing a bit less strain on the wrist than a traditional cupping grip on the handguard. 

Gold Standard in VFG
32
at Daniel Defense

Prices accurate at time of writing

Prices accurate at time of writing

Available Coupons

2. Magpul M-LOK MVG

The Magpul version of the vertical grip is very similar to the Daniel Defense, though a bit more rounded.

It too is made of polymer, comes in a variety of colors and can mount right up to your rail. Where you mount the grip can dictate how you hold it.

This can be changed with the amount of real estate you have on your handguard.

Magpul VFG
Magpul VFG

The MVG is similar in almost all ways to the Daniel Defense grip though I noticed the M-LOK hardware was a bit beefier and the price is much less.

Shooters using this old broomstick style hold have to be careful that they are pulling directly back into the shoulder, otherwise shot placement can suffer.

Magpul VFG (2)
Magpul VFG

I enjoy shooting with a vertical foregrip, though I do not use the traditional broomstick shooting style.

Both of these grips are great choices for long shooting days (training) if you don’t have a sling as they held you distribute the weight of the rifle while you are in low ready, or just resting the weapon muzzle down.

12
at Brownells

Prices accurate at time of writing

Prices accurate at time of writing

Available Coupons

Horizontal or Angled Grips

Another variety of the foregrip is horizontal or angled grips. Serving the same purpose, these grips are a bit more stretched out but still offer the same advantages of the vertical grips in different ways.

3. Magpul Angled Fore Grip (AFG)

The AFG is another great polymer option from Magpul that answers the same riddle with a different approach.  

Shooters will note the same traditional grip on the bottom of the handguard, though it angles the hand down a bit.  

This subtle change makes the wrist bend slightly less, creating a more ergonomic placement.

Magpul AFG
Magpul AFG

Shooters who prefer thumb-over-bore will find the AFG is a great addition.  

Some other benefits are that it cups the hand and gives you reference points.  

You can also pull back and develop some good shoulder pressure with the rear bumper—improving recoil recovery for follow-up shots

Magpul AFG (2)
Magpul AFG

The front bumper can be jammed into barricades as a stabilization point for that type of shooting as well.  

This grip is a great value and comes in different styles with as many as five different colors.

25
at Palmetto State Armory

Prices accurate at time of writing

Prices accurate at time of writing

Available Coupons

What’s your take on the AFG? Rate it below!

Readers' Ratings

4.98/5 (1545)

Your Rating?

The SI Curved Foregrip is a great choice for those who like a more traditional grip position for the support hand.  

The bumpers cup the hand really well and allow the gun to be driven forward as well as pulled back into the shoulder.  

The inside of the foregrip is serrated and allows for great retention.

Strike Industries LINK Curved Foregrip
Strike Industries LINK Curved Foregrip

Strike Industries is known for some cool innovations and this foregrip does not disappoint.  

It comes with the Link system which allows it to be mounted to either M-LOK or Keymod. Made out of coated aluminum, the Link is tough and very lightweight. 

Strike Industries LINK Curved Foregrip (2)
Strike Industries LINK Curved Foregrip
Best Angled Foregrip
31
at OpticsPlanet

Prices accurate at time of writing

Prices accurate at time of writing

Available Coupons

Special Grips

At least a couple of products currently on the market defy specific categorization because of their approach to accomplishing the same mission of the foregrip.  

5. Ryker Grip

The Ryker Grip represents a complete departure from the traditional methodology.  

The developers at Ryker studied the body mechanics of shooting and moving a rifle. They then created a product that has a lot of shooters scratching their head — until they try it.

Ryker FIST Grip (3)
Ryker Grip

The guys at Ryker have some interesting military backgrounds and they have done some testing with active-duty military who have given them feedback.  

Also, the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) recently gave the thumbs up to the Ryker Grip so even though it looks totally different, some serious shooters have given it the nod.  

Ryker FIST Grip
Ryker Grip

The basic concept is that it serves as an ergonomic grip which mounts on the side of the rifle.  

This places the thumb up, and palm in, toward the rifle. Having used this unorthodox grip, I can tell you it removes a lot of the binding that happens in the wrist and forearm.

Shooters can drive the gun with surprisingly better accuracy and speed.

Ryker FIST Grip (2)
Ryker Grip

The Ryker is made of polymer and is tough.  

It currently must mount on a side Picatinny rail, sadly that limits what handguards can use it. It is reversible so lefties need not despair. 

74
at Ryker USA

Prices accurate at time of writing

Prices accurate at time of writing

Available Coupons

6. Mid-Evil Industries 360 VFG

The 360 VFG (vertical foregrip) is a great evolution of the traditional broomstick.

The unit mounts to your rail like a standard grip, but that’s where the similarities end.  

With a twist of the bottom portion of the shaft, the upper portion loosens and can rotate.

Mid-Evil Industies 360 VFG
Mid-Evil Industries 360 VFG

You can curve the 360 VFG back, forward, and even out to the side.  

You can hit just about any angle as it rotates on a ball pivot at the base. Once you have it in the position you like, simply tighten the end and it locks into place.

Mid-Evil Industies 360 VFG (2)
Mid-Evil Industries 360 VFG

The whole unit is made of aluminum, weighs 5.2 ounces, and measures 3 7/8-inches long.  

The end of the grip can unscrew exposing the hollow handle for battery storage. It comes in four colors and is available for Picatinny, Keymod, and M-LOK!

99
at OpticsPlanet

Prices accurate at time of writing

Prices accurate at time of writing

Available Coupons

7. Bravo Company KAG

Developed by BCM in conjunction with Travis Haley (Haley Strategic Partners), the Kinesthetic Angled Grip is a minimalist approach that brings maximum results.

The KAG reminds me of a comma and it is every bit as useful.

This small grip has a foot firmly planted in the horizontal and vertical foregrip worlds.

Mounted on the bottom of your handguard, the KAG serves as a great reference point for the back of your hand.

Bravo Company KAG
Bravo Company KAG

It is so small, you hardly notice its presence but it is extremely comfortable.

It cups the back of your hand and also angles it down slightly, releasing some of the binding that happens in the joints when you raise a file.  

Bravo Company KAG (2)
Bravo Company KAG (2)

Despite its small size, it holds enough of your hand to allow you good backpressure, pulling the rifle snugly into your shoulder.

With the KAG you can shoot a traditional support grip (albeit more ergonomic) or a thumb-over-bore.

The KAG comes any color you want, as long as that color is black.

Best Barricade Stop
18
at Brownells

Prices accurate at time of writing

Prices accurate at time of writing

Available Coupons

8. Tyrant Designs Mod Foregrip

A newcomer that just looks so good…and performs as well.

Tyrant Modded AR-15
Tyrant Modded AR-15

The Mod Foregrip from Tyrant Designs definitely pops out and gives you a very nice and secure grip with its rubberized texture over the milled aluminum.

Tyrant Mod Foregrip
Tyrant Mod Foregrip

When you want a full grip foregrip that stands out…

64
at Tyrant Design

Prices accurate at time of writing

Prices accurate at time of writing

Available Coupons

Final Thoughts

There are so many great options out there when it comes to mounting a foregrip to your handguard.

Ultimately, you have to decide which will work best for you, and the only way to truly know that is to try them.

Aero RECCE Forend

I have used all the above products and find them to be excellent. Depending on your use of your rifle, you may find one that is a great fit for you too.  

Regardless, if you get one and like it, you need to train with it!

So…what is your favorite foregrip? Tell us about it in the comments! Once you have a foregrip – you’ll want to grab some other upgrades for your rifle! So, check out our articles on the 5 Best AR-15 Flashlights, Best AR-15 Handguards, and the Best AR-15 Upgrades.

The Best Gun Deals, Coupons and Finds

Subscribe to Pew Pew Tactical's sales and deals email.

38 Leave a Reply

  • Commenter Avatar
    A. Davis

    Another good article as always, but I also think you're missing a few salient points that are very relevant. For example, why no comments re: when an AFG is the only option vs a vertical grip as it relates to barrel length and AR rifle vs pistol? I run 300BLK which is optimized for a 10.5 barrel in my setup... so that means I have a pistol per ATF and can't run a vertical grip unless I get a tax stamp for an SBR. I can, however, legally use an AFG or hand stop. Also, surprised there's no conversation re: vertical grips and bipods. While not as common these days, it wasn't long ago that many used a bipod that was in the handle of the vertical grip. All that said, I love the KAG and most things designed with or by Travis Haley including their collaboration knives with Toor. Worth adding, the KAG is one of the few that comes for 1913, M-Lok or Keymod. And its short enough to fit on the short, lower rail of a Kel-tec P50... most others are too long.

    December 20, 2022 7:27 am
  • Commenter Avatar
    John

    Skip the others and go with the Bravo Company KAG if ya just gotta have a grip. I've tried all of these at one time or another, none of them do or help anything better or worse overall than the Bravo Company KAG plus it costs less than the rest on this list. But! If you have carpal tunnel or De Quervain tenosynovitis the Magpul Angled Fore Grip (AFG) will be your best friend.

    December 19, 2022 8:18 am
  • Commenter Avatar
    James l

    I’m just looking for something best that fits a 7.5in ar pistol 223/556

    March 3, 2022 10:44 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Andrew P

      Same. Remember it’s a federal law that you can’t use a vertical grip on an ar pistol. What I have been trying to find out is if we can use vertical stuby grips. I’m guessing not but I’ve found YouTube videos that say otherwise.

      July 31, 2022 8:00 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Chris

      for something like this your best bet for it to fit and also not break any laws, the Arisaka Indexer. I have the indexer on my mcx and not only does it work great, it doubles as a barricade stop

      February 16, 2023 10:27 am
  • Commenter Avatar
    John

    Mid-Evil Industries 360 VFG - kinda gimmicky, and 5.2 ounces is not so good when you want to keep weight down.

    October 7, 2021 11:58 am
  • Commenter Avatar
    mark Cease

    is there an angled foregrip that is California legal?

    January 14, 2021 9:25 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      David, PPT Editor

      There is no confirmed legal angled foregrip, however, any angled foregrip that is NOT a vertical foregrip should be legal on both featureless and fixed magazine rifles. Personally, I stick to handstops like the Strike Industries Link Curved Foregrip.

      January 14, 2021 9:42 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      John

      Its been a while, but the last time I looked - in California vertical grips are not permitted but angled grips are permissible.

      isn't it still this way?

      October 7, 2021 12:02 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Jason

      all gun laws are illegal, I dont let commies rule me, this is still America right? but if you are determined to comply, bcm kag, or ‘hand stops’. please vote commies out

      March 15, 2022 4:44 am
  • Commenter Avatar
    John Galt

    Most people I know use the vertical grip to impart more force when using the muzzle end as a striking or thrusting weapon and use a c grip when running and gunning.

    September 4, 2020 1:08 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Cody

      C grip is amongst the stupidest fashion to hit the firearms community... bunch'o'spec force wannabees

      May 16, 2021 4:29 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        YourHero

        ....and you're an idiot.

        January 25, 2022 6:55 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        SlimSights

        I feel that. These modern day fools is lame.

        June 6, 2022 7:06 pm
  • Commenter Avatar
    Bedrock

    can’t believe a full length vtr didn’t make the list.

    August 23, 2020 2:40 pm
  • Commenter Avatar
    John

    Fab Defense makes some really good AR hardware too, foregrips included.

    June 21, 2020 7:52 pm
  • Commenter Avatar
    Rando

    I really like the Vendetta Precision Angled Grip. Sturdy aluminum, and has a tone of ways you can use/hold it.

    May 16, 2020 3:13 am
  • Commenter Avatar
    Bob Penman

    Would the Ryker Grip be legal on an AR pistol?

    February 22, 2020 7:23 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Logan Patterson

      The riker is considered a foregrip not a handstop

      April 13, 2020 12:20 pm
  • Commenter Avatar
    John

    Is that a Radian Model 1 you're mounting to in the pics?

    January 17, 2020 5:37 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Braxton Stephens

      looks to be an LWRC ic-di handguard

      February 8, 2020 9:37 pm
  • Commenter Avatar
    PAUL

    Where should i put a Magpul broomhandle grip on a SBR with 11.5 inch barrel with Magpul front cover? In the middle or front of grip? Thanks.

    October 10, 2018 5:39 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Sean Curtis

      Paul, I'm not sure what you mean by front cover.

      With that short a barrel, I'd place it as close to the muzzle as you can get without risking your fingers. That's going to give you the best muzzle control and maneuverability. If this doesn't answer your question, give me some more details.

      October 11, 2018 6:57 am
    • Commenter Avatar
      PAUL

      I meant front handguard.
      Thanks

      October 11, 2018 7:07 am
      • Commenter Avatar
        Sean Curtis

        Okay that makes sense. Placement depends on grip. If you're grabbing the fore grip fully with your support hand you can go as far forward as you dare. Most rails will stop short of muzzle blast risk. If you place your hand in front of the fore grip, like in the second image of the Daniel Defense grip above, you may want to scoot it back a smidge.

        October 11, 2018 9:23 am
  • Commenter Avatar
    Brian

    What about California laws?

    October 10, 2018 4:48 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Sean Curtis

      Brian,

      I can't give legal advice but this is what I found online:

      Section 12276.1. (Amended by Stats. 2002, Ch. 911, Sec. 3.)
      Cite as: Cal. Penal Code §12276.1.
      (a)Notwithstanding Section 12276, “assault weapon” shall also mean any of the following:

      (1)A semiautomatic, centerfire rifle that has the capacity to accept a detachable magazine and any one of the following:
      ...
      (F)A forward pistol grip.

      (2)(B)A second handgrip.

      It seems if you have a detachable magazine, adding a "forward pistol grip" turns your rifle into an "assault rifle".

      October 11, 2018 7:06 am
  • Commenter Avatar
    Todd

    B5 systems grip stop beats them all hands down

    October 9, 2018 10:41 pm
  • Commenter Avatar
    Nut'n'fussy

    I operate my AR15 one handed, therefore I do not have to worry about a foregrip.

    October 9, 2018 6:38 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Bull o' the Woods

      WTF? I use my toes.

      May 19, 2020 6:50 pm
  • Commenter Avatar
    BILL

    Marcia, if the time for confiscation does come I'm not gonna be worried about what grip is on my rail. In fact I'm not gonna be worried about anything but me, my family and my close circle of former teammates who all will be right behind me.

    October 9, 2018 6:08 pm
  • Commenter Avatar
    Spike

    I was searching for this review a week early lol. Had a really hard decision between Arisaka's finger stop & Rail Scales Karve P. Decided to go with the Karve P. Seems like minimalist stops are the new go-too's. The B5 Gripstop & Zero Bravos hand stop seem to be popular offerings too.

    October 9, 2018 4:56 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Invisibleflash

      Thanks Spike, some nice prospects to pick from. I'm with you...minimal.

      August 29, 2020 6:46 pm
  • Commenter Avatar
    marcia mason

    Since having a "pistol grip" on the gun is one of the defining features of an "assault rifle" perhaps having the angled foregrip is the better way to go come time for confiscation. Just sayin'.

    October 9, 2018 4:50 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      DaveW

      When it comes to confiscation, I just want something which will give me a grip like a Louisville Slugger, which I can use after I've run out of ammo, and my bayonet is so dulled it can no longer penetrate.

      October 9, 2018 5:01 pm
      • Commenter Avatar
        Mechcondrid

        just stick a 12g co2 charge behind the bayonet; it'll penetrate alright lol

        October 9, 2018 6:55 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      marcia's neuron

      Oh yeah, it makes sense Marcia. Brilliant idea, keep them coming please!

      October 9, 2018 6:37 pm
    • Commenter Avatar
      Steve

      If you mean that because you can better control recoil and have faster follow up shots to drive off the confiscators, I agree.

      October 10, 2018 4:44 am
Join the community! Log in
Please provide a valid email address.
Password is required.
or
Register
Please provide a valid display name.
Please provide a valid email address.
The password should contain at least 8 characters with at least one number or special character.
Please accept in order to continue.
or
Trouble logging in?
Type your email address and we’ll send you a link to reset your password.
Please provide a valid email.
Password
Type your new password and hit button below to confirm it.
Field is required.
Account already exists
We already have an account registered for email address () which is linked to your Facebook account.
To log in type your Pew Pew Meter password below.
Field is required.
Account already exists
We noticed that you have previously logged in with your Account which is linked to the same email address () - we can link both of your accounts together.
In order to link your accounts, hit button below and log in to your Account with the same email as above.

Account in Pew Pew Meter means more

Check what do you get by creating an account
Check and save your reviews!
Bookmark and compare your favorite firearms
Manage your newsletter subscription
pew pew tactical logo

new here?

Personalize your experience.
Select what level shooter you are!

pew pew tactical logo

level up your gun knowledge

Thanks! We'll send you the latest guides and training tips geared towards your level.

pew pew tactical logo

welcome!

You'll now receive newsletters of our best articles on techniques, guns & gear.

$47 value

yours free!

targets targets
free

practice targets

printer icon printable

our 9 favorite targets and drills

free

practice targets

printer icon printable

enter your email to download

We'll only use the information provided according to our privacy policy.

success icon

Ready to Download

Click below to begin your download

download pdf