First Impressions of Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip
The Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip presents an intriguing blend of functionality, aiming to provide a stable shooting platform and a comfortable foregrip in one affordable package. As someone who’s spent years navigating the world of tactical gear, I’m always looking for equipment that delivers both versatility and value. The Strike Industries offering piqued my interest due to its low price point and the promise of combining two essential AR-15 accessories.
I needed a lightweight, rapidly deployable bipod solution for my patrol rifle without sacrificing valuable rail space or adding excessive weight. Many bipods are bulky and cumbersome, while dedicated foregrips lack the stability needed for precision shots. My initial reaction upon unboxing was cautiously optimistic. The polymer construction felt surprisingly robust for the price, but the manual bipod deployment raised some concerns about speed and ease of use.
I’ve previously used grip pods from UTG and FAB Defense, as well as a Magpul AFG in conjunction with a separate bipod. The Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip aimed to consolidate these functionalities. The appeal was the potential for a streamlined setup. I chose it over the more expensive, spring-assisted options, hoping for a budget-friendly solution that didn’t compromise too much on performance. My first impression was a mix of curiosity and skepticism. The price was right, but would the performance live up to my expectations?
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip primarily at my local shooting range, focusing on both static shooting from a bench and more dynamic drills incorporating movement and transitions. I also took it on a day-long training course in a relatively dry, outdoor environment. I found the grip surprisingly comfortable, but the bipod legs felt a bit short when deployed on uneven terrain.
Performance was decent, although deploying the bipod legs manually slowed down my transitions compared to spring-assisted models. The polymer construction held up well to moderate use, and the textured grip provided a secure hold even with sweaty hands. My initial concern was the leg length, and that played out as the primary downside of the design.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip has held up surprisingly well. There are minor scuff marks on the polymer, but no signs of cracking or significant wear. Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes.
Compared to my previous grip pod experience, the Strike Industries offering feels more robust, though less convenient in deployment. It’s certainly not as fast as the spring-loaded options, but it is a good budget conscious alternative. For the price, it exceeded my expectations in terms of durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip
Specifications
The Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip is made from a durable, lightweight polymer. It attaches to any 1913 Picatinny rail using a Quick Detach (QD) clamp system. The grip angle is fixed at 89 degrees.
The overall length is 4.71 inches, with a height of 1.75 inches, and it weighs just 0.28 lbs. The lightweight polymer ensures minimal weight addition to the rifle, crucial for maintaining maneuverability. The fixed grip angle promotes a comfortable and natural wrist position.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip performs its core function adequately. It provides a stable shooting platform in a pinch. The grip is comfortable for extended use, even with gloves.
The main weakness is the manual bipod deployment. It requires two hands and a conscious effort, making it slower than spring-assisted models. The leg length is also somewhat limiting, especially on uneven ground. While it gets the job done, improvements could be made to the bipod functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip features a textured palm and finger area for enhanced grip. It has flat sides for improved weapon manipulation. The polymer construction keeps the weight down.
The grip feels natural in hand, and the texturing provides a secure hold. The manual bipod deployment, however, is not as intuitive as other designs. The overall design prioritizes simplicity and affordability over ultimate speed and convenience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip, being constructed from polymer, is relatively durable for its intended use. It can withstand moderate impacts and abrasions. Maintenance is straightforward, involving only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
The polymer material is resistant to most common solvents and cleaning agents used on firearms. The bipod legs are simple in design, reducing the number of potential failure points. The QD clamp is robust and provides a secure attachment to the rail.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond what’s needed for mounting. It is compatible with any standard 1913 Picatinny rail system. There are no specific customization options for the grip itself.
However, the Picatinny rail interface allows users to attach other accessories, such as weapon lights or lasers, in conjunction with the bipod grip. Its universal rail compatibility enhances its versatility on different AR platforms. The simplicity of the design means there’s little need for further customization.
Pros and Cons of Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious shooters.
- Lightweight polymer construction minimizes added weight to the rifle.
- Comfortable grip with textured palm and finger areas for secure handling.
- QD clamp allows for quick and easy attachment and removal.
- Provides a stable bipod platform for improved shooting accuracy.
Cons
- Manual bipod deployment is slower and less convenient than spring-assisted models.
- Short bipod legs may not be suitable for all terrains.
- Polymer construction, while durable, might not be as robust as metal alternatives.
Who Should Buy Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip?
The Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip is perfect for recreational shooters, budget-minded enthusiasts, and those looking for a lightweight, multi-functional accessory for their AR-15. It is also a good option for those who prioritize a comfortable foregrip with the added benefit of a bipod for occasional use.
This product might not be ideal for competitive shooters or tactical professionals who require rapid bipod deployment and maximum stability. Also, those who frequently shoot on uneven terrain may find the leg length limiting. A weapon light is a recommended accessory, as the grip itself does not offer integrated lighting solutions.
Conclusion on Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip
The Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip offers a compelling value proposition. It delivers a functional grip and a deployable bipod at an incredibly affordable price. While the manual deployment and shorter legs are compromises, they are understandable given the cost.
The price is definitely justified, considering the functionality and durability offered. It’s a worthwhile addition for casual shooters and those seeking a lightweight, versatile accessory. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly bipod grip solution. If you’re looking for a good grip and are willing to trade some speed for savings, pick up the Strike Industries AR Bipod Grip.