The AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail Made a Bold First Impression
The AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail promises enhanced control and comfort for your AR platform rifle. It claims to provide a superior grip and improved ergonomics. As someone who’s spent years modifying and upgrading ARs for various uses, from competition to home defense, I’m always looking for that edge in performance and handling. The factory A2 grip is functional, but let’s be honest, it leaves a lot to be desired in terms of ergonomics and recoil management.
I was specifically looking for a grip upgrade that would mitigate the dreaded “AR knuckle,” that uncomfortable slam some experience on the middle finger during rapid firing. I’ve tried several aftermarket grips, some with finger grooves, some with aggressive texturing, but none have quite solved the problem while maintaining a consistent grip angle. The promise of a beavertail to cushion the hand and a rubber overmold for enhanced grip was intriguing.
Upon receiving the AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail, my initial impression was positive. The rubber overmold felt immediately comfortable in my hand. The fiberglass reinforced polymer seemed robust, but the overmold gave it a tactile, non-slip feel.
Compared to a Magpul MOE grip and a Hogue OverMolded grip, the AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail stood out with its unique combination of the beavertail and the overmolded rubber. While the Magpul offered modularity and the Hogue offered a similar rubber feel, neither had this specific beavertail design. I chose this grip specifically for the promised knuckle protection and improved recoil control offered by the beavertail.
I was initially excited. The AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail felt like a significant upgrade from the standard grip. Now, it was time to see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail was illuminating. I tested it on my primary AR-15, a 5.56 chambered rifle, at an outdoor range in varied conditions. The morning started cool and slightly damp, transitioning to a sunny afternoon.
The grip performed well in both conditions, maintaining a solid, non-slip hold even with slightly sweaty hands. Installation was straightforward, requiring only the removal of the existing A2 grip and the tightening of the included screw. Recoil felt noticeably reduced, and the beavertail indeed protected my middle finger from the charging handle’s impact.
There were no immediate issues during this initial use, though I noticed the rubber overmold did get slightly warm after a few rapid-fire drills. That warmth, however, did not affect my grip on the rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range trips and a weekend training course, the AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail has held up impressively well. There are no visible signs of significant wear and tear on the rubber overmold. The fiberglass reinforced polymer core provides a solid foundation.
Cleaning has been a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime. The grip has proven to be resistant to solvents and cleaning solutions.
Compared to my previous experiences with other grips, the AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail offers a better balance of comfort, control, and durability. While some grips offer more aggressive texturing for a “locked-in” feel, this grip strikes a good balance. It is a balance that offers positive control without being abrasive.
Breaking Down the Features of AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail
Specifications
The AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail is molded from a super tough fiberglass reinforced polymer, ensuring stability and accuracy. The grip boasts durability, weatherproof capabilities, and a non-slip surface due to the overmolded rubber. It’s designed for AR-15 and M-16 platforms.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the rifle’s handling and the shooter’s comfort. The fiberglass reinforced polymer provides the necessary rigidity for secure attachment. The rubber overmold enhances grip and mitigates recoil, while the beavertail protects the hand.
Performance & Functionality
The AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail performs its job admirably, offering enhanced control and improved ergonomics. The most significant strength is the combination of the rubber overmold and the beavertail. Together, they reduce felt recoil and protect the hand.
There is always room for improvement. The texturing on the rubber overmold could be slightly more aggressive for an even more secure grip, particularly in wet conditions.
It meets my expectations. It delivers on its promise of improved comfort and control.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid. The materials used are high-quality. The grip fits comfortably in hand.
It is quite user-friendly. Installation is simple, and there is no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the high-quality materials and construction, the AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail should last for years with proper care. Cleaning is easy, and no special maintenance is required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail does not come with any accessories. It does not need them.
Because it utilizes a standard AR-15 grip attachment, it’s compatible with any aftermarket grip screw or washer. However, the grip itself is not modular or customizable beyond that.
Pros and Cons of AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail
Pros
- Excellent recoil mitigation due to the beavertail design, significantly reducing muzzle climb.
- Superior grip provided by the rubber overmold, even in wet or sweaty conditions.
- Enhanced comfort compared to standard A2 grips, especially during extended shooting sessions.
- Durable construction with a fiberglass reinforced polymer core and rugged rubber overmold.
- Easy installation using existing AR-15 grip hardware.
Cons
- The rubber overmold can get warm during rapid firing, though it does not significantly impact grip.
- Limited customization options beyond basic grip screw replacement.
Who Should Buy AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail?
The AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail is perfect for shooters of all skill levels. It particularly benefits those who prioritize comfort and control in their AR-15 platform. This grip would be especially well suited to competitive shooters needing quick follow-up shots. This includes home defense users looking for a reliable and comfortable grip.
Those seeking highly modular grips with interchangeable backstraps and aggressive texturing might want to skip this product. Those are likely to prefer something like a Magpul MOE or BCM Gunfighter grip.
A quality set of anti-walk pins for the fire control group is a must-have modification for any AR-15 build. This ensures consistent trigger pull and prevents potential issues with pin migration. A quality sling is important. This helps in maintaining control of the rifle and distributing its weight during extended use.
Conclusion on AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail
The AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail is a worthwhile upgrade for any AR-15 or M-16 platform rifle. It offers a noticeable improvement in comfort, control, and recoil mitigation compared to standard grips. At $25.49, the price is justified. It provides a significant performance boost without breaking the bank.
I would personally recommend the AR-15/M-16 Rubber Grip Beavertail to anyone looking for a comfortable and functional grip upgrade for their AR-15. Its combination of durability, ergonomics, and recoil control makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of shooting applications. Upgrade your rifle today. Experience the difference!