Let’s Talk About Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black
The Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black offers a potentially affordable solution for enhancing the grip on your Smith & Wesson M&P Compact pistol. Manufactured by EZR Grips, it promises improved control and comfort, especially for shooters seeking a more secure hold. The key feature is the Sorbothane material, known for its vibration dampening and shock absorption properties.
My search for a better grip stems from years of competitive shooting and concealed carry, where a confident and consistent hold is paramount. Factory grips often leave something to be desired, especially during extended range sessions or when dealing with adverse weather conditions. This led me to explore aftermarket options, hoping to find a cost-effective upgrade.
Upon receiving the Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black, my initial impression was somewhat subdued. The packaging was basic, but the grips themselves felt surprisingly substantial for their low price point. The black matte finish looked clean, and the Sorbothane material had a slightly tacky feel.
I considered options from Hogue and Talon Grips, both well-regarded names in the industry. However, the Ezr Grips stood out due to its incredibly low price, making it an appealing option for someone looking for a budget-friendly enhancement. I picked these grips with the hope that sometimes a small price can yield big results.
My first impression was a mix of curiosity and cautious optimism. The price was certainly right, but I was eager to see if the Ezr Grips could deliver on its promises in real-world use. Time to hit the range!
Real-World Testing: Putting Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black took place at my local outdoor shooting range on a relatively warm, sunny day. I installed the grips on my S&W M&P 9mm Compact, a pistol I’ve used extensively in various training courses. The installation was simple, utilizing the included P80 grip-it tube.
The performance during my first range session was noticeable, especially regarding recoil management. The Sorbothane material effectively absorbed some of the recoil, making the pistol feel more comfortable to shoot, especially during rapid-fire drills. The improved grip also seemed to enhance my accuracy at distances of 7-15 yards.
One initial issue was the lack of aggressive texturing; while the Sorbothane offered some grip, it became slightly slippery when my hands got sweaty. This required me to consciously maintain a firm grip throughout the shooting session. Even with that concern, it’s still more comfortable than the stock grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black has held up reasonably well. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through my M&P Compact with these grips installed, including a few drills in light rain. The Sorbothane has maintained its shape and hasn’t shown any significant signs of wear and tear.
Durability-wise, there are a few minor scuff marks, but nothing that impacts the grip’s functionality. The black matte finish has proven to be relatively resistant to scratches and fading. The grips are easy to clean with a damp cloth, and I haven’t needed to use any specialized cleaning products.
Compared to my previous experience with rubberized grips, the Ezr Grips offers comparable recoil absorption at a fraction of the cost. While not as grippy as some stippled or aggressively textured options, the comfort and vibration dampening are definite improvements over the factory polymer grips. For the price, it has certainly exceeded expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black
Specifications
The Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black is specifically designed for the S&W M&P Compact pistol. The material is Sorbothane, a viscoelastic polymer known for its shock absorption and vibration dampening properties. It comes in a black matte color, offering a subtle and non-reflective finish.
Notably, the grips lack finger grooves and checkering, focusing on a smooth, uniform surface. An “Other feature” includes an S&W M&P Compact Gauntlet with a P80 grip-it tube. The fact that the grips are made of Sorbothane and are for the S&W M&P Compact is what makes this product stand out.
The Sorbothane material is pivotal, influencing recoil management and shooting comfort. The absence of finger grooves may appeal to shooters who prefer a more adaptable grip, allowing for different hand placements. The slim, minimalist design potentially aids in concealed carry by minimizing bulk.
Performance & Functionality
The Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black significantly improves shooting comfort by reducing felt recoil. The Sorbothane material effectively dampens vibrations, leading to less hand fatigue during extended range sessions. However, the lack of aggressive texturing impacts the grip security, especially in wet or sweaty conditions.
The strengths lie in the improved comfort and vibration dampening, while the weakness is the lack of aggressive texturing. The grips meet expectations for a budget-friendly upgrade that prioritizes comfort over a super secure hold.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is reasonable for the price point. The Sorbothane material is soft and pliable, providing a comfortable feel in the hand. The grips add minimal bulk to the pistol, maintaining its concealability.
The grips are user-friendly and require no specialized skills for installation using the provided P80 grip-it tube. There is virtually no learning curve, as the ergonomic changes are subtle yet noticeable.
Durability & Maintenance
The Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black is expected to last a decent amount of time with proper care. The Sorbothane material is resilient but can be susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals or solvents. Maintaining the grips is simple, requiring only a damp cloth and mild soap if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black comes with a P80 grip-it tube for easy installation. However, there aren’t specific customization options directly associated with the grips.
Compatibility with accessories is generally unaffected by these grips, as they don’t interfere with the operation of the pistol or the attachment of lights, lasers, or holsters. The grips will not negatively impact the usage of attachments.
Pros and Cons of Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt recoil due to Sorbothane material.
- Budget-friendly upgrade compared to other aftermarket grips.
- Easy installation using included P80 grip-it tube.
- Slim design adds minimal bulk, aiding in concealed carry.
- Provides a comfortable feel, especially for extended shooting sessions.
Cons
- Lack of aggressive texturing can lead to a less secure grip in wet or sweaty conditions.
- Sorbothane material may be susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals.
Who Should Buy Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black?
The Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black is perfect for budget-conscious shooters seeking improved comfort and recoil management on their S&W M&P Compact. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a less aggressive grip texture.
Individuals who require an extremely secure grip, especially in adverse weather conditions, should skip this product. Those who prefer heavily textured grips or finger grooves may find this option lacking.
Consider adding grip tape or skateboard tape to the Ezr Grips for enhanced grip security. Alternatively, look into purchasing stippling tools to add custom texturing.
Conclusion on Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black
The Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black offers a commendable balance of comfort and affordability. While not a replacement for high-end, aggressively textured grips, it provides a noticeable improvement over factory polymer grips, especially in reducing felt recoil. It is manufactured by EZR Grips.
The price is definitely justified given the comfort and vibration dampening it provides. I would personally recommend it to budget-conscious shooters looking for a simple and effective upgrade to their S&W M&P Compact.
For a minimal investment, you can significantly enhance your shooting experience. Give the Ezr Grips S&w M&p Compact Gauntlet Black a try – your hands will thank you.