Let’s Dive into Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle
The Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle promises an upgrade in convenience and safety for your tow vehicle. Manufactured by Stromberg Carlson, it aims to offer a comfortable and reliable point of assistance, especially when entering or exiting your RV or trailer. I’ve spent a lot of time rigging out trailers and campers for various expeditions, so I’m always on the lookout for improvements in safety and ease of use.
My aging travel trailer’s original assist handle was corroded and frankly, uncomfortable. The sharp edges were a constant nuisance, especially when wearing gloves. I was looking for a replacement that offered a better grip, improved aesthetics, and wouldn’t turn into a rust bucket after a few seasons.
Upon unboxing, the Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle feels immediately more premium than the standard metal handles. The soft-touch surface is a welcome change. The handle has a good heft to it, suggesting a solid build. The recessed stainless steel fasteners are a nice touch, providing a clean look.
Compared to a basic metal grab handle or even some aftermarket alternatives with hard plastic grips, the Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle stood out due to its promise of enhanced comfort and weather resistance. I chose this over a similar product with a rigid plastic grip because I wanted something that would be comfortable to use even in cold or wet conditions.
My first impression was positive. The feel of the handle is definitely an upgrade. I was excited to see how it would perform in real-world conditions, hoping it would live up to its promise of being easy to grab and comfortable in any weather.
Real-World Testing: Putting Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle came during a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. The weather was variable, with periods of rain and sunshine. The location presented opportunities to assess its functionality getting in and out of the trailer.
The Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle truly shined in the wet conditions. The soft-touch material provided a secure grip even with wet hands, unlike my old metal handle. Installation was simple and straightforward, it took about 10 minutes, I used the existing mounting holes from my original handle. No need for new drilling.
The handle felt natural to use. I didn’t need any time to get used to its shape or feel. It was a significant improvement over the original handle in terms of comfort and grip.
Initially, there were no immediate issues. The handle felt solid and secure. The only surprise was how much of an improvement such a simple upgrade could make.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple camping trips and exposure to varying weather conditions, the Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or fading on the soft-touch surface. The color is just as vibrant as when installed.
The handle has proven to be durable. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scuffs from regular use. The stainless steel fasteners still look new, with no signs of rust or corrosion.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep it clean. Its performance has significantly exceeded my expectations. It’s a vast improvement over my previous experiences with standard metal grab handles.
Breaking Down the Features of Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle
Specifications
- Color: Black. The black color provides a sleek, modern look that complements most RV and trailer exteriors.
- Easy-to-grab, Soft-touch handle: The soft-touch material offers a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet or cold conditions. This feature is crucial for safety and ease of use.
- Greater convenience/safety strap: While the description mentions a safety strap, it’s important to note that one is not included. The intention of the handle itself is to provide convenience and safety. The strap would add to it.
Performance & Functionality
The Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a secure and comfortable grip for entering and exiting my trailer. The soft-touch surface is particularly beneficial in wet or cold weather, ensuring a reliable hold.
Its greatest strength is the enhanced grip and comfort it provides. A minor weakness is the absence of the mentioned safety strap, which would enhance its functionality. It meets my expectations, providing a significant upgrade in both safety and convenience compared to the old metal handle.
Design & Ergonomics
The Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle features an injection-molded design with a soft-touch surface. It’s lightweight but feels sturdy. The handle’s ergonomic shape fits comfortably in hand, making it easy to grip and use.
The handle is incredibly user-friendly. There is no learning curve involved. It’s a simple and intuitive design that provides immediate benefits.
Durability & Maintenance
The Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle is constructed from durable materials designed to withstand the elements. With proper care, it should last for many years. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle doesn’t come with many accessories due to its simple design. However, you could add aftermarket grip tape or paracord wrapping for enhanced customization. While it doesn’t require a specific set of accessories, it’s universally compatible in the sense that it will fit any trailer or RV that uses the standard bolt pattern for assist handles.
Pros and Cons of Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle
Pros
- Enhanced Grip & Comfort: The soft-touch material provides a superior grip, even in wet or cold conditions. This makes it safer and more comfortable to use compared to standard metal handles.
- Easy Installation: Installation is simple and straightforward, requiring only basic tools. This allows for a quick and hassle-free upgrade.
- Durable Construction: The injection-molded design and stainless steel fasteners ensure long-lasting durability. The handle is designed to withstand the elements and resist corrosion.
- Improved Aesthetics: The sleek black color and recessed fasteners provide a clean, modern look. This enhances the overall appearance of your RV or trailer.
- Affordable Upgrade: At $27.99, it’s a cost-effective way to improve the safety and convenience of your tow vehicle. The handle provides excellent value for its price.
Cons
- Absence of Safety Strap: Despite being mentioned in the description, a safety strap is not included.
- Limited Customization Options: There are few customization options available for those seeking a more personalized look or feel.
Who Should Buy Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle?
The Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle is perfect for RV owners, travel trailer enthusiasts, and anyone looking to improve the safety and convenience of their tow vehicle. Those with mobility issues or who frequently camp in wet or cold climates will particularly benefit.
Those who prioritize having a built-in safety strap or extensive customization options should skip this product. However, they could easily add a strap on their own.
A must-have modification would be to add a high-visibility reflective tape around the handle for increased visibility at night.
Conclusion on Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle
The Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle is a worthwhile upgrade for any RV or travel trailer. It enhances safety, comfort, and aesthetics at an affordable price.
The value proposition is excellent. The handle provides a significant improvement over standard metal handles without breaking the bank.
I would absolutely recommend the Stromberg Carlson Soft Touch Assist Handle to anyone looking to upgrade their RV or travel trailer. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance safety and convenience. Ditch that old, uncomfortable handle and experience the difference!