First Impressions of Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16
The Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 is a basic, no-frills pistol grip designed as a direct replacement for the standard A2 grip found on many AR-15 and M16 rifles. Priced at a mere $6.99, it promises a simple and affordable upgrade or replacement option. This piqued my interest, considering I’ve seen some grips fetch ten times that amount.
As a seasoned armorer and firearms enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for cost-effective solutions for my builds and for recommending to my clients. The standard A2 grip, while functional, has always felt a bit lacking in comfort, particularly during extended shooting sessions. I sought a replacement that provided a more secure and ergonomic hold without breaking the bank.
Upon receiving the Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16, the first thing I noticed was its simple, utilitarian design. The glass-filled polymer construction felt reasonably sturdy, if a bit basic, and the molded finger groove and checkered sides suggested a decent grip. Compared to Magpul’s MOE grip or Ergo’s own aggressively textured grips, this offering felt a bit less refined. I chose this particular grip due to its incredible price and promise of being a simple and direct replacement.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 didn’t scream “high-end,” but it seemed like a potentially worthwhile upgrade over the standard A2 grip, especially at its price point. I was eager to see how it performed on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 on my trusty AR-15 carbine and took it to my local outdoor shooting range. The grip was tested during a standard range day, with targets set between 25 and 100 yards. I experienced dry conditions with temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Installation was straightforward, as expected for a standard A2 grip replacement, and the grip felt marginally better in hand than the original. After a few magazines, I began to notice the limitations of the texturing. The checkering wasn’t aggressive enough to provide a truly secure grip when my hands became slightly sweaty from extended use.
There weren’t any immediate issues, but the lack of a more positive grip texture was noticeable, particularly during rapid firing drills.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and a carbine course, the Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 held up without any visible damage. The polymer construction showed no signs of cracking or deformation. However, my initial impressions regarding the grip remained unchanged.
The grip proved durable, but the ergonomics and grip texture were only a slight improvement over the original A2 grip. Cleaning was simple, requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth. Compared to my experience with other grips like the BCM Gunfighter or the aforementioned Ergo models, the Poly Technologies offering felt like a compromise in terms of both comfort and control.
Breaking Down the Features of Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16
Specifications
- The Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 is compatible with any standard AR-15 or M16 lower receiver that accepts an A2-style grip. The grip is molded from a glass-filled polymer, offering a balance of strength and lightweight construction.
- It features a standard A2 grip angle, finger groove, and checkered side panels. This is designed to provide enhanced control and comfort compared to basic mil-spec grips. These specifications matter because they dictate the comfort, control, and compatibility of the grip with various AR-15 platforms.
Performance & Functionality
The Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 performs its primary function: providing a gripping surface for the shooter. It is a basic, no-frills grip with minimal improvements over a stock A2 grip.
The grip’s strength lies in its simplicity and affordability. The main weakness is the lack of aggressive texturing. While it meets the basic expectation of a grip, it doesn’t exceed it, especially in demanding conditions or during rapid-fire scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is a classic A2 style with minor ergonomic tweaks. The glass-filled polymer provides a sturdy feel.
The molded finger groove and checkered side panels are intended to improve grip, but are not as effective as more modern, aggressively textured grips. There is virtually no learning curve, since it’s almost identical in shape to the standard A2.
Durability & Maintenance
The Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 is reasonably durable, thanks to its glass-filled polymer construction. It should last for many years of regular use.
Maintenance is extremely simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. No special tools or solvents are needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 does not come with any included accessories. It offers minimal customization options beyond potentially adding grip tape or stippling for improved texture.
The grip is compatible with any standard AR-15 grip screw and lock washer. It does not offer any unique mounting points for accessories like battery storage compartments or adjustable backstraps.
Pros and Cons of Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16
Pros
- Incredibly affordable, making it a great budget option.
- Simple and direct replacement for the standard A2 grip, easy to install.
- Durable construction using glass-filled polymer.
- Slightly improved ergonomics over the standard A2 grip due to the finger groove.
Cons
- Texturing is not aggressive enough for a truly secure grip in wet or sweaty conditions.
- Limited ergonomic enhancements compared to more modern grip designs.
Who Should Buy Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16?
The Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 is perfect for budget-conscious AR-15 owners looking for a simple and inexpensive replacement for their standard A2 grip. It is also suitable for those who prefer a more traditional grip feel with minimal frills.
Those who require a high degree of weapon control, especially in adverse conditions, or who prefer more ergonomic and customizable grip options, should skip this product. Must-have accessories are a grip screw and lock washer, if you don’t have them already. Grip tape may also be beneficial for enhanced texture.
Conclusion on Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16
The Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 is a testament to basic functionality at an unbeatable price. It delivers on its promise of being an affordable replacement for the standard A2 grip, with a slight improvement in ergonomics.
The value proposition is undeniable. At $6.99, it’s a low-risk upgrade for those on a tight budget. I would recommend it as a temporary solution or for builds where cost is the primary concern.
Final thoughts: while it isn’t the most exciting or feature-rich grip on the market, the Poly Technologies Ergo Grip for A2 AR 15/M16 gets the job done. If you’re looking to improve your AR-15’s grip without breaking the bank, give it a try.