The Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum Made a Bold First Impression
The Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum immediately grabs your attention with its vibrant color and unique design. Coming from Strike, a company known for its innovative AR accessories, this foregrip promises enhanced ergonomics and improved weapon control, built upon the foundation of their Cobra Tactical Fore Grip. I was drawn to this foregrip because I was looking for a lightweight, low-profile option that would improve my grip on my AR without adding excessive bulk.
Having run a few different vertical grips and angled foregrips, I wanted something that offered a blend of both worlds, a comfortable and secure hold without sacrificing maneuverability. Unboxing the Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the aluminum and the attention to detail in the machining. The anodized blue finish is eye-catching, and the grip feels solid and well-made in hand.
Compared to Magpul’s AFG or BCM’s Vertical Grip Mod 3, the Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum stood out due to its unique curved shape and the Strike Industries’ proprietary Link mounting system. I preferred the smaller footprint compared to the Magpul and I was interested in trying out a curved design, hoping for a more natural and comfortable wrist angle. My initial impression was excitement; the design seemed well-thought-out, and I was eager to see how it performed on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum at my local outdoor shooting range, mounted on my AR-15 chambered in 5.56 NATO. The weather was clear and dry, perfect for a range day. Installation was simple using the included hardware and the Link mounting system attached securely to my M-Lok rail.
The curved design took a little getting used to initially, but after a few magazines, I found that it provided a very natural and comfortable grip. The ridged front face worked well as a hand stop, preventing my hand from slipping forward, and allowing for consistent hand placement. After about 100 rounds, I didn’t experience any discomfort or hand fatigue.
There were no immediate issues after the first range session, the Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum felt secure and performed as expected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, the anodized finish has resisted scratching and fading, even after being exposed to mud and rain. I clean the foregrip after each range session with a basic gun cleaning solvent and a microfiber cloth.
Maintaining the grip is straightforward; there are no intricate parts or mechanisms to worry about. Compared to some polymer grips I’ve used in the past, the aluminum construction feels significantly more durable and resistant to impact. It outperforms cheaper polymer options in terms of overall longevity and robustness.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum
Specifications
- The Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum is constructed from 6061T6 aluminum, ensuring a lightweight yet durable build. This aluminum alloy is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for firearm accessories.
- It weighs in at a mere 1.70 oz, adding minimal weight to your AR platform. This lightweight design helps maintain the rifle’s balance and maneuverability, especially important for dynamic shooting scenarios.
- The grip has a height of 1.74 inches, a length of 4.83 inches, and a width of 0.55 inches. These dimensions provide a compact and ergonomic grip that doesn’t interfere with other accessories or your handguard.
- It utilizes Strike Industries’ Link mounting system, making it compatible with both M-LOK and KeyMod rails. This versatile mounting system ensures compatibility with a wide range of AR platforms.
- The Blue anodized finish provides a stylish and durable coating that resists scratches and corrosion. The anodizing process enhances the aluminum’s surface hardness and aesthetic appeal.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum excels at providing a comfortable and secure grip for improved weapon control. The curved design promotes a more natural wrist angle, reducing strain and fatigue during extended shooting sessions. It is extremely reliable; after hundreds of rounds fired with the grip installed, I have experienced zero issues with its functionality or stability.
The ridged front face acts as an effective hand stop, preventing your hand from slipping forward during rapid firing. One potential weakness is that the blue finish might not appeal to everyone; a wider range of color options would be beneficial. It definitely meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum boasts a sleek and ergonomic design. The aluminum construction provides a solid and premium feel, while the curved shape conforms comfortably to the hand. The weight is negligible, barely adding to the overall weight of the rifle.
The grip is user-friendly and requires no special tools or skills to install or use. I experienced no learning curve; the grip felt intuitive and natural from the first time I used it.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction and anodized finish ensure that the Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum is built to last. The grip is resistant to wear, scratches, and corrosion, even under harsh conditions. Regular cleaning with a basic gun cleaning solvent is all that’s needed to maintain the grip’s appearance and performance.
The simple design means there are no small parts that could break or require replacement, further enhancing its longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum comes with all the necessary hardware for installation on M-LOK and KeyMod rails. There are no specific accessories designed solely for this foregrip, its primary function is to provide a secure and comfortable gripping surface. The grip is compatible with any AR-15 that has an M-LOK or KeyMod handguard, allowing users to attach other accessories such as lights, lasers, or sling mounts.
Pros and Cons of Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum
Pros
- Lightweight and Durable: The 6061T6 aluminum construction provides excellent strength and durability without adding significant weight.
- Ergonomic Design: The curved shape promotes a natural wrist angle, reducing strain and fatigue.
- M-LOK/KeyMod Compatibility: The Strike Industries Link mounting system is compatible with both M-LOK and KeyMod rails, ensuring versatility.
- Effective Hand Stop: The ridged front face prevents hand slippage during rapid firing.
- Stylish Appearance: The blue anodized finish adds a touch of personalization to your AR platform.
Cons
- Limited Color Options: The blue finish might not appeal to all users; more color choices would be desirable.
- Price: At $37.95, it’s slightly more expensive than some polymer foregrips on the market.
Who Should Buy Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum?
The Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum is perfect for AR-15 owners looking to improve their grip and weapon control without adding excessive weight or bulk. It’s ideal for recreational shooters, tactical enthusiasts, and competitive shooters who prioritize ergonomics and maneuverability. AR owners looking for a comfortable and reliable foregrip should strongly consider this product.
Those who should skip this product include budget-conscious buyers looking for the absolute cheapest option, or those who prefer a more traditional vertical grip. If you want a grip with built in storage, this is not for you. Must-have accessories to complement the Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum include a quality set of rail covers to protect unused rail space and a weapon light for low-light shooting scenarios.
Conclusion on Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum
The Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum is a well-designed and durable accessory that enhances the ergonomics and control of your AR platform. Its lightweight aluminum construction, comfortable curved shape, and versatile mounting system make it a worthwhile addition to any AR build.
At $37.95, the price is justified by the quality of materials and the improved shooting experience it provides. I would definitely recommend the Strike Link Curved ForeGrip AR-Platform Blue Aluminum to anyone looking for a lightweight, ergonomic, and stylish foregrip for their AR. Upgrade your AR today and experience the difference a quality foregrip can make!