OpticsPlanet Exclusive Fortis Manufacturing SHIFT Vertical Grip, Picatinny Review

Let’s Talk About OpticsPlanet Exclusive Fortis Manufacturing SHIFT Vertical Grip, Picatinny

The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Fortis Manufacturing SHIFT Vertical Grip, Picatinny is more than just an accessory; it’s a tactile bridge between you and your firearm. This isn’t some injection-molded afterthought, but a meticulously crafted piece of hardware designed to enhance control, stability, and overall shooting experience. Fortis Manufacturing is known for its high-quality AR-15 components, and this grip promises to deliver that same level of performance.

I was experiencing discomfort and inconsistent control when transitioning between targets, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios. I needed something that offered a secure grip, enhanced stability, and could double as a hand stop for various shooting styles. The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Fortis Manufacturing SHIFT Vertical Grip, Picatinny seemed to offer that versatility.

Upon unboxing, the grip felt solid and well-made. The aircraft-grade 6061-T6 aluminum construction immediately instilled confidence. Its Type III hard coat anodized finish felt smooth yet provided excellent grip.

I considered the Magpul RVG and the BCM Vertical Grip Mod 3, but the Fortis SHIFT’s hybrid design caught my eye. The ability to use it as both a vertical grip and a hand stop seemed like a practical advantage. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The grip felt surprisingly lightweight yet incredibly robust. It seemed like a thoughtful addition to my AR platform.

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Real-World Testing: Putting OpticsPlanet Exclusive Fortis Manufacturing SHIFT Vertical Grip, Picatinny to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the OpticsPlanet Exclusive Fortis Manufacturing SHIFT Vertical Grip, Picatinny at my local outdoor range, focusing on rapid target acquisition and transitions. The weather was slightly damp, presenting a mild challenge to grip security. The grip performed admirably, providing a secure hold even with slightly sweaty hands.

The grip’s profile made it easy to transition between a full vertical grip for close-quarters shooting and a hand stop for longer-range stability. There was a slight learning curve in finding the perfect hand placement for optimal control. However, after a few magazines, it felt intuitive.

Initially, I was concerned that the smaller profile wouldn’t offer enough purchase as a vertical grip. I was pleasantly surprised by how much control it provided, even during rapid firing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Fortis SHIFT has held up remarkably well. The finish shows no signs of wear, even after being subjected to rough handling and various weather conditions. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and debris.

The grip has been consistently reliable. It provides the same level of control and stability regardless of the shooting environment. It has proven more versatile and comfortable than my previous generic vertical grip, which felt bulky and less adaptable.

I’ve found that the Fortis SHIFT has become an integral part of my AR setup. It enhances both the performance and the aesthetics.

Breaking Down the Features of OpticsPlanet Exclusive Fortis Manufacturing SHIFT Vertical Grip, Picatinny

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Fortis Manufacturing, a reputable name known for its high-quality AR parts. This immediately signals a commitment to durability and performance.
• Color: Black, a standard color for tactical gear. This ensures compatibility with most existing setups.
• Finish: Military Specification Type III Hard Coat Anodized, providing exceptional resistance to wear, corrosion, and abrasion. This is crucial for maintaining the grip’s integrity in harsh environments.
• Fabric/Material: Aircraft Grade 6061-T6 Aluminum, offering an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. This ensures the grip is both durable and lightweight.
• Length: 2.93 in, a compact size that doesn’t add unnecessary bulk. This is ideal for maintaining maneuverability.
• Width: 1.17 in, providing a comfortable grip without feeling too wide. This promotes secure handling.
• Height: 3.33 in, offering sufficient vertical support for enhanced control. This height allows for a comfortable grip, whether used as a vertical grip or a hand stop.
• Weight: 3.4 oz, incredibly lightweight, minimizing added weight to the firearm. This is especially important for maintaining balance and reducing fatigue during extended use.
• Mount Type: M-LOK, although it attaches via Picatinny. This is due to an included M-LOK to Picatinny adapter.
• Attachment Type: Picatinny, the standard rail system for most modern firearms. This ensures broad compatibility and easy installation.

Performance & Functionality

The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Fortis Manufacturing SHIFT Vertical Grip, Picatinny excels at providing enhanced control and stability. It promotes faster target acquisition and smoother transitions. Its dual-purpose design is a significant advantage, allowing the user to switch between a vertical grip and a hand stop as needed.

The grip is incredibly reliable, maintaining its structural integrity under heavy use. The only potential improvement would be slightly more aggressive texturing for even better grip in extreme conditions. It definitely exceeds my expectations, offering a level of versatility and performance that belies its compact size.

Design & Ergonomics

The Fortis SHIFT features a sleek, minimalist design. Its aircraft-grade aluminum construction feels both lightweight and incredibly robust. It fits comfortably in hand, offering a secure and ergonomic grip.

The grip is very user-friendly, attaching easily to any Picatinny rail. There’s minimal learning curve. Its intuitive design makes it easy to adapt to different shooting styles.

Durability & Maintenance

The OpticsPlanet Exclusive Fortis Manufacturing SHIFT Vertical Grip, Picatinny is built to last. The Type III hard coat anodized finish provides exceptional resistance to wear and tear. Minimal maintenance is required. A simple wipe-down after use is usually sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Fortis SHIFT comes with the necessary hardware for Picatinny rail attachment. It’s also compatible with any standard Picatinny-mounted accessories. The M-LOK mount option is a nice addition for greater versatility.

Pros and Cons of OpticsPlanet Exclusive Fortis Manufacturing SHIFT Vertical Grip, Picatinny