Best AR-15 Grips [Reviewed]: Ditch That A2
Having the right AR-15 grip is super important. We hands-on test some of the most popular and choose our overall winner, KISS grip, and long-range pick.
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It might be easy to overlook, but the grip is critically important on your AR! Not just how, but what you grip can mean the difference between a hit and a miss.
Finding what is best for you isn't always the easiest thing to do in a market that is saturated up to the eyeballs.
I will be going over some of my favorite grips, some newcomers, and the differences between each one.
Keep in mind that everyone is different, and YMMV based on comfort, but these companies offer something for everyone!
We've organized these grips by brand, not necessarily in order of excellence!
The Quick List
- Best Vertical: Magpul K2/K2+Jump to Details ↓
- Best General Purpose: Magpul MOE+ GripJump to Details ↓
- Best Lightweight and Thin: Magpul MOE-K/SLJump to Details ↓
- Best Adjustable: Magpul MIAD Gen 1.1Jump to Details ↓
- Best Reduced Angle: BCM Mod-0Jump to Details ↓
- Best Aggressive Texture: BCM Mod-1Jump to Details ↓
- Best Aluminum Grip: Tyrant Design MOD GripJump to Details ↓
Table of Contents
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How We Chose the Best AR-15 Grips
For this article, we focused on AR-15 grips that balance ergonomics, texture, grip angle, and affordability.
We’ve shot thousands of rounds and spent hundreds of hours with AR-15s between our hands-on reviews, shooting events, and guns from our own personal collections. So we collectively have a lot of experience with a variety of grip brands and models.
This article is an analysis of the grips we've tried, used, and loved.
Best Magpul Grips
Magpul has been a huge force within the firearms community, especially with AR shooters. They may have the biggest selection of anyone for different models and different budgets.
The best part is you could practically open their catalog of grips, throw a dart, and end up with something that will work for you.
Their full line-up has many different color options, and most models also come with a latching inner grip compartment for various gear.
1. Magpul K2/K2+ - Best Vertical
Slightly different than the rest of the line-up, the Magpul K2/K2+ models have a slightly more vertical angle and under-swept contour at the top of the grip.
It may not be for everyone, but I really dig it. Purists who like the typical A2 grip may find the grip angle odd, but the recess at the top of the grip provides some good texture.
I personally own a K2+ in FDE on my home-rolled 6.5 Grendel hunting rifle. It has spent its time bouncing from build to build.
Between the rubber texture and the naturally high pistol grip I tend to use on AR15s, this grip suits its role well. Added points for the tacky rubber texture.
2. Magpul MOE/MOE+ - Best General Purpose
This offering shares the same grip angle as the typical A2 grip but has a flat front face without a finger groove. The Magpul MOE/MOE+ also has a beavertail to aid shooters with a high pistol grip.
The (+) models are worth the extra money, in my opinion. The tackiness of the rubber is excellent.
The front strap of the grip is ribbed for your pleasure, and overall, this grip is one of the best general-purpose grips on the market.
If you are stepping up your grip game, the MOE/MOE+ is worth a solid look and can appeal to most people.
What's your take on the MOE+ grip? Rate it below!
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3. Magpul MOE-K/SL - Best Lightweight and Thin
This one is lightweight and well-suited for shooters with smaller hands. Unfortunately, the MOE-K or SL model does not offer a (+) model, so no options for a rubberized grip.
Overall, the grip is thinner than the other models available with Magpul and offers good texturing on the plastic.
The K and SL versions of the MOE grip are very similar. The only difference is that the K does not offer a beaver tail on the backstrap of the grip.
While this isn’t an absolute necessity, I tend to go with grips that have a beavertail. These models do not offer grip storage.
4. Magpul MIAD Gen 1.1 - Best Adjustable
The MIAD, or Mission Adaptable Grip, is one of my personal favorites. I currently have one on my precision AR15 build and my 11.5-inch pistol build.
I have found it able to perform any task due to its ability to change the backstraps.
The reason it is called the Mission Adaptable Grip is because of the three different sizes of backstraps available in the kit.
There are two front straps included, so shooters can either have a flat A1 face or a finger groove like the A2. This grip can fit almost any shooter.
Best Bravo Company USA Grips
Bravo Company USA has been known to produce quality firearms for some time now. Their aftermarket parts are no exception.
Between handguards, stocks, charging handles, or assembled AR15s, it would be hard to find someone who was unhappy with their purchase.
All their grips are made in America, and color options include Black, FDE, and Foliage Green. The models look similar with minor differences, and they have a modular model as well.
Let’s go over the differences between the Mod-0 through Mod-3.
5. BCM Mod-0 - Best Reduced Angle
The Mod-0, along with the whole BCM lineup, uses a more reduced angle with their grips to accommodate the modern stances of gunfighters with the M16/AR15 platform.
A reduced angle grip generally gives better ergonomics, but YMMV. The Mod-0 is a bit different without the addition of a high-ride beavertail and is more like the A2 in that respect.
But that is the only similarity. The front is completely flat with a ridged texture, and the rear is oversized like an H&K 416 grip, though not as drastic.
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6. BCM Mod-1 - Best Aggressive Texture
The Mod-1 has a high-rise beavertail and the same aggressive texturing on the sides as the other models. The same reduced angle is present in this model, but it is less thick in the back portion of the grip.
Inside the frame of the grip, there is a latched compartment, which is present in all BCM model grips.
The Mod-0 and Mod-1 feature the same thickness in the design of the grip. And they also share a removable insert to close gaps between the receiver and trigger guard.
7. BCM Mod-2 - Best Reduced Angle Adjustable
The Mod-2 has the features of the Mod-1 but is modular with the backstrap like the Magpul MIAD. However, it has only the top beaver tail section modular.
It comes with three alternate beaver tails that each have different depths of curve.
8. BCM Mod-3 - Best Thick Grip
My absolute favorite grip from BCM is the Mod-3.
It lacks certain features that the Mod-0 through Mod-2 have, such as the removable insert or the interchangeable beavertails, but it makes up for that with a thicker grip.
While this may not be for everyone, I am a big fan of keeping things simple.
The Mod-3 has the same latched internal storage system, has a tab to close the trigger guard void, and just feels great in my hand.
This model is also the most inexpensive, which makes it an easy KISS (keep it simple, stupid) choice.
Best ERGO Grips
Ergo is the master at rubberized grips; these things just stick to your hand. Since the original SureGrip, many models have been added to the catalog, but all typically have the same type of tacky rubberized grip.
Colors vary by model but can include Black, FDE, OD Green, Grey, Pink, Blue, and Purple.
Keep in mind that there are many knockoffs out in the wild of the interweb, so make sure if you purchase an Ergo Grip, do so with a reputable dealer. There are a few different models, and they offer something for everyone.
9. Original SureGrip - Best Rubberized
Among the SureGrips, you can find multiple models that offer different features. Whether you want an A2 style without a beavertail or the added grip with a higher pistol grip, ERGO has you covered.
The rubberized texture is one of the best.
While some shooters may not want finger grooves, in my experience, the ERGO grips are not as deep as other models. This provides a slightly more natural feel when using a high pistol grip, unlike a typical A2 grip.
10. Tactical Deluxe
The Tactical Deluxe is one of my favorite grips for bench rifle or precision rifle work in the AR platform.
Between the oversized palm of the grip, amazing rubberized texturing, and the option to run a palm shelf, this is a great choice for long-range work.
There are five models of Tactical Deluxe Grips. Two models have the palm shelf, and three models without.
Both have options for a flat top or beavertail. One of the models is their Zero Angle Grip, which is vertical. This could be a great choice for an AR or a precision rifle chassis.
Best B5 Systems Grips
11. B5 Systems Type 22 P-Grip
B5 has expanded its line of furniture to include grips, and the Type 22 features a more vertical angle with a really good texture on the front strap and sides. It lacks a tang extension and allows the shooter to get a good, high grip.
This is also nice for larger-handed users. The Type 22 comes in five different colors, so you can pick one that best matches your build.
The interior of the grip is hollow and is designed to accept B5's battery module. This is a rubber plug with two slots that hold standard CR123 batteries.
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12. B5 Systems Type 23 P-Grip
Also utilizing the more vertical angle, the Type 23 has all the same features as the Type 22, but it also has the extended tang. The Type 23 includes the same aggressive textured panels on the front strap and sides.
In addition, the Type is also capable of accepting the battery plug, allowing users to store two CR123 batteries in the hollow interior.
Best Grips from Other Companies
Stark Equipment was founded five years ago and offers grips and angled foregrips for the AR and the AK. Their design is a little different than the others previously mentioned as it lowers the overall grip of the hand to be more in line with the trigger.
13. Stark ONE Grip
The Stark ONE Grip uses a built-in trigger guard that replaces an existing one, eliminating the need for another part.
The overall design also allows for a lower grip due to its lowered beavertail. The extra room provided by this design allows for an optional QD sling swivel mount to be installed on the back of the grip itself.
You also get secured internal storage within the frame for batteries. Its shape reminds me of an M249 SAW grip and takes me back to the smell of burnt powder and hot brass lying on the ground.
14. Tyrant Designs Mod Grip - Best Aluminum Grip
Tyrant Designs brings American-made AR-15 upgrades to those who prefer to keep things Stateside. Skirting the usual FDE or matte black, Tyrant offers vibrant colors that will spice up any AR build (but they do have matte black, too, if that's your thing).
Although their MOD Grip is a relative newcomer, it's definitely growing on me for its aesthetics.
The MOD grip gives you the right amount of grippiness with its rubber front and back.
I like the rear swell and how I can get a super-high grip when needed.
The only thing I would ding it on is I would have liked to see an extra finger indent on the front...but that's for my specific hand geometry.
A little pricier, but it's milled out of solid aluminum.
15. Hogue Overmolded Beavertail Grip
We would be remiss if we didn't list one of the most popular grip companies in the industry...Hogue. Offering a ton of grips for a range of weaponry, this company also manages to keep costs down.
The Overmolded, Beavertail AR-15 Pistol Grip brings an overmolded style with a beavertail that provides a bit more in the way of LOP.
It's available in black and tan colors, so if you're looking for some snazzy design...you won't get it here. But you will get a solid grip that is wallet-friendly.
16. THRiL RTG
THRil Inc. produces a number of products, including AR-15 furniture like grips and stocks, as well as a couple of magazine options. All their wares are made in the USA.
This grip is a no-nonsense option that has good standard features while being very affordable. With a 19.5-degree angle, the Rugged Tactical Grip is comfortable and ergonomic feeling.
This polymer-bodied grip is very lightweight and features four distinct panels of laser stippling on the front, rear, and both sides. This adds a great amount of traction without being too rough.
The RTG also has thumb wells up top that add to the overall comfort and a reference lip at the bottom of the grip.
Final Thoughts
There are many different companies within the firearm industry that make grips to accessorize your rifle.
Much of it comes down to personal preference, but we hope this list helps get you pointed in the right direction!
Let us know your favorite grips in the comments below! Need another awesome upgrade, check out our Best AR-15 Upgrades super-article.