First Impressions of TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip
The TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip is a component that, on paper, promises enhanced weapon control and a touch of modularity through its capped storage compartment. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless forward grips come and go, each claiming to be the next best thing. I was intrigued, and slightly skeptical, to see if this offering from TAC could genuinely deliver on its promises and stand out in a crowded market.
I was looking for a vertical forward grip to improve the handling of my AR-15 during rapid-fire drills at the range. Tired of bulky, over-engineered grips, I wanted something lightweight, durable, and above all, functional. The TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip’s solid aluminum construction and M-LOK compatibility caught my eye, ticking the initial boxes.
My first impression upon unboxing was positive. The TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip felt solid and well-made, with a clean, hard black finish. The aluminum body felt robust, not cheap or flimsy. Compared to some polymer grips I’ve used, this felt like a significant upgrade in terms of material quality. It felt more robust compared to a UTG polymer grip I own, but not quite as refined as a BCM Gunfighter Vertical Grip Mod 3. I picked this one over a Magpul MVG for its capped storage, hoping to stash a small battery or two for my optic.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. I hoped the durable aluminum construction would translate to reliable performance in real-world conditions. I was eager to see if the capped storage feature would actually prove useful, or just be a gimmick.
Real-World Testing: Putting TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip at my local outdoor shooting range. The day was overcast with a slight drizzle, presenting a somewhat slick environment. I attached the grip to my AR-15, ready to run through some standard drills.
The grooved design provided excellent grip retention even with slightly damp hands. I immediately noticed a more secure and stable hold during rapid transitions and target acquisition. However, I did encounter an immediate issue when trying to mount it to a Magpul M-LOK handguard; it simply wouldn’t lock in securely.
Extended Use & Reliability
After the initial mounting issue, I swapped it onto an older rifle with a metal M-LOK handguard. Once properly mounted, the TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip has held up well over several range sessions and one dusty training weekend. There are no signs of loosening or wobble after a few months of regular use.
The hard black finish shows minor scratches from normal handling, but nothing significant. Cleaning has been simple – a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it needs. Compared to a polymer grip, the aluminum seems less prone to absorbing dirt and grime. It has significantly outperformed a cheap plastic grip I had previously, offering a much more secure and comfortable hold.
Breaking Down the Features of TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip
Specifications
The TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip boasts the following specifications:
- Material: Solid Aluminum
- Mount: M-LOK
- Color: Black
- Finish: Hard And Durable
- Width: 1.5 inches
- Height: 3.35 inches
- Weight: 2.75 oz
- Grip Type: Vertical Grip
- Capped Storage
The solid aluminum construction provides a robust and durable platform, capable of withstanding significant abuse. The M-LOK mount ensures compatibility with a wide range of modern handguards. The grip’s dimensions provide a comfortable and ergonomic feel for most hand sizes. The capped storage is a welcome addition for storing small essentials.
Performance & Functionality
Once securely mounted, the TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip significantly enhances weapon control. Its vertical design encourages a more natural and stable wrist position, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The grooved surface provides excellent grip, even in wet or gloved conditions.
The grip excels at providing a secure and consistent hold, improving accuracy and control. The capped storage feature is a useful bonus, allowing for convenient storage of small items. The mounting issue I experienced on the Magpul handguard is a significant drawback, but it performs flawlessly on metal M-LOK rails. It exceeded my expectations for a grip in this price range, especially concerning its aluminum construction.
Design & Ergonomics
The TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip features a simple, functional design. Its aluminum construction provides a solid and durable feel, without adding excessive weight to the firearm. The grip is comfortable to hold, even for extended periods.
The grooved texture provides a secure grip, preventing slippage even in wet or gloved conditions. There’s no significant learning curve; it’s intuitive and easy to use right out of the box. The TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip excels in providing enhanced ergonomics compared to shooting without a forward grip.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction and hard black finish suggest excellent long-term durability. After several months of use, there are no signs of structural weakness or degradation. The grip is easy to maintain; a quick wipe-down with a cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and grime.
The TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip is designed for long-term use and should withstand years of regular range and field use. The simplicity of its design makes repairs unlikely to be needed, but if necessary, basic tools should suffice. The TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip’s long-term durability sets it apart.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip doesn’t require any additional accessories for basic functionality. The capped storage compartment allows for carrying small items like batteries or spare parts. It integrates seamlessly with any M-LOK compatible handguard.
The grip is compatible with various M-LOK accessories, such as rail sections for mounting lights or lasers. The storage compartment can be customized with foam inserts to protect delicate items. The standard M-LOK interface provides broad compatibility.
Pros and Cons of TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip
Pros
- Solid Aluminum Construction: Provides excellent durability and a premium feel.
- Enhanced Grip: Grooved design offers a secure hold in various conditions.
- Capped Storage: Convenient for storing small essentials.
- M-LOK Compatibility: Works with a wide range of modern handguards (except seemingly Magpul polymer versions).
- Lightweight: Doesn’t add significant weight to the firearm.
Cons
- Mounting Issues: Had significant difficulty mounting it on a Magpul polymer M-LOK handguard.
- Finish Wear: The hard black finish can show scratches over time.
Who Should Buy TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip?
The TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip is perfect for tactical shooters, range enthusiasts, and anyone looking to improve weapon control and ergonomics on an AR-15 or similar firearm. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate durable aluminum construction and the added benefit of a capped storage compartment. Shooters using metal M-LOK handguards will find it to be a reliable and effective addition to their weapon.
If you primarily use Magpul polymer M-LOK handguards, you might want to skip this product due to potential mounting issues. Also, if you prefer a grip with a more aggressively textured surface, this may not be the best choice. A must-have modification would be to use a threadlocker during mounting to ensure maximum security, as well as only using metal handguards.
Conclusion on TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip
The TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip offers a compelling combination of durability, functionality, and value. The solid aluminum construction and enhanced grip provide a noticeable improvement in weapon control. The capped storage is a useful bonus.
While the mounting issue with Magpul polymer handguards is a significant drawback, the grip performs admirably on metal M-LOK rails. At $55.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and construction. I would personally recommend the TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip to anyone seeking a durable and functional vertical grip, as long as they are aware of the potential mounting limitations on polymer handguards. Equip your rifle with the TAC Capped Vertical Forward Grip and experience enhanced control and a touch of modularity.