XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip Review

Let’s Talk About XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip

The XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip is a budget-friendly aftermarket option designed by XTS to enhance the ergonomics and feel of your AR-15 platform rifle or pistol. For just under $15, it promises a rubberized texture, an ergonomic design, and a convenient storage compartment. This combination aims to provide superior grip and added functionality compared to standard A2 grips.

I was looking to upgrade the rather basic grip on my budget AR pistol build. I wanted something that offered a more secure and comfortable hold, especially during extended range sessions, and the promise of a storage compartment was a definite bonus. I have several AR platforms, and was looking to see if this was a good replacement for the generic grips that come standard on budget builds.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the slightly tacky feel of the rubberized coating. The grip felt lightweight yet solid and the storage compartment door seemed secure enough. The molding wasn’t perfect, a bit of flash here and there, but for the price, I wasn’t expecting perfection.

I considered the Magpul MOE grip and the BCM Gunfighter Mod 3, both reputable options, but the XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip won out due to its price point and the integrated storage. Both competitors lack the storage compartment on their entry-level models. I was curious to see if a budget grip could deliver the same level of comfort and control as its higher-priced counterparts.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a decent upgrade for the money, but I reserved final judgment until I had a chance to put it through its paces at the range. The odd “beavertail” extension seemed odd, but I wasn’t convinced it would be an actual problem.

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Real-World Testing: Putting XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip at my local outdoor shooting range, primarily on my AR pistol chambered in 5.56 NATO. The weather was sunny but cool, with a slight breeze, a typical day for an October range session. I ran several drills, focusing on rapid target acquisition and controlled pairs, to get a feel for the grip’s performance under pressure.

The rubberized texture provided a noticeably better grip than the standard A2 grip, even with slightly sweaty hands. I found the grip comfortable to hold, even for extended periods, and the slight palm swell filled my hand nicely. There were no slippage issues, even when firing multiple rounds in quick succession.

The grip did require a bit of getting used to, mainly due to the slightly different angle compared to the A2 grip. It didn’t take long to adjust, and I soon found myself appreciating the more natural wrist position it offered. The beavertail, which I was initially skeptical about, didn’t interfere with my grip or operation of the safety selector.

After the first 100 rounds, I didn’t experience any major issues. The grip felt solid and secure, and the storage compartment remained closed throughout the session. The screw that came with the grip and the provided washer were functional.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip has held up surprisingly well. I’ve put several hundred rounds through my AR pistol with this grip installed. I have used the grip during multiple range sessions and even on an informal hog hunt.

The rubberized coating shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to various weather conditions and cleaning solvents. I haven’t experienced any cracking or peeling, and the grip still feels as secure as it did on day one. There has been no visible wear on the screw or washer.

Cleaning is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth and apply a light coat of oil to prevent drying. Maintenance is minimal, which is a definite plus. So far, the compartment door has remained secure, though I don’t regularly use it for storage of anything important.

Compared to other budget-friendly grips I’ve used in the past, the XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip definitely outperforms them in terms of grip and comfort. While it may not have the same premium feel as higher-end options, it offers excellent value for the price and has proven to be a reliable upgrade. I prefer it over the original A2 grip, but it hasn’t replaced any of my more expensive grips on my higher-end builds.

Breaking Down the Features of XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip

Specifications

• Manufacturer: XTS
• Color: Black
• Finish: Rubberized
• Fabric/Material: Rubber
• Gun Make: AR Platform
• Gun Model: AR-15
• Condition: New

The XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip’s rubberized finish is the key element, providing enhanced grip and control, particularly in wet or sweaty conditions. The XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip is designed for AR platform rifles and pistols, making it a versatile upgrade. It is an aftermarket addition to an existing build.

Performance & Functionality

The XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip excels at enhancing grip and control compared to the standard A2 grip. The rubberized texture provides a secure hold, even with wet hands. It also improves the ergonomics of the AR platform, promoting a more natural wrist angle and reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.

One minor weakness is that the grip angle might not be ideal for everyone, especially those with smaller hands. The beavertail extending slightly past the lower receiver is a bit odd, but it does not affect functionality. The grip feels good for larger hands, but users with smaller hands have complained of it being awkward.

The XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip largely meets expectations, particularly considering its budget-friendly price point. It doesn’t match the performance of much more expensive grips but is better than entry-level grips. For shooters on a tight budget looking for a simple yet effective upgrade, the XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip delivers.

Design & Ergonomics

The XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip features a simple, functional design with a focus on ergonomics. The rubberized texture provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the palm swell fills the hand nicely. It enhances a more natural wrist angle.

The grip is relatively lightweight and doesn’t add significant bulk to the rifle. The integrated storage compartment is a useful feature for storing batteries or other small items. There is no real learning curve, swapping the grip is the same process as swapping any other AR grip.

Durability & Maintenance

The XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip is made from durable rubber material that should withstand years of use. The rubberized coating is resistant to wear and tear, and the grip is easy to clean and maintain. Overall, the grip is adequately durable for the range and is suitable for field applications.

Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe down the grip with a damp cloth and apply a light coat of oil as needed. The grip should be durable enough for most recreational shooters and even for some professional applications. However, heavy use may require more frequent inspection and maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip comes with a standard mounting screw and washer. The key additional feature is the integrated storage compartment. The XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip has no other included accessories.

The grip is compatible with any AR-15 lower receiver and can be used with a variety of accessories, such as aftermarket trigger guards or ambidextrous safety selectors. It’s a standalone upgrade that doesn’t necessarily require any additional modifications. The XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip is compatible with any AR15 lower, though certain buffer tube and stock configurations might limit access to the storage compartment.

Pros and Cons of XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip

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Who Should Buy XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip?

The XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip is perfect for budget-conscious shooters, casual range users, and those looking for a simple ergonomic upgrade. It is well-suited for AR pistol builds and recreational target shooting. If you are new to the AR platform, or simply want a better grip on a budget, the XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip is a good starting point.

This grip isn’t ideal for competitive shooters, professional users, or those with smaller hands. They would likely prefer a higher-end grip with a more refined design and better overall ergonomics. Smaller hands may find the XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip is too large to comfortably use for an extended time.

A must-have modification would be upgrading the grip screw and washer if you plan to use your AR in demanding environments. Aside from that, no other modifications are strictly necessary. Adding an ambi-safety selector may be a good consideration.

Conclusion on XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip

Overall, the XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip is a solid budget-friendly upgrade for the AR platform. It offers a noticeable improvement in grip and ergonomics compared to the standard A2 grip. The storage compartment is a nice bonus, and the grip is easy to install and maintain.

At a price of $14.95, the value proposition is excellent. It’s hard to argue with the level of performance and functionality you get for the price. If you are on a budget but desire a solid grip, this is an excellent choice.

I would definitely recommend the XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip to anyone looking for an affordable and effective grip upgrade. It’s not the best grip on the market, but it’s a great option for the price. Upgrade your AR today with the XTS AR Tactical Pistol Grip and experience the difference a better grip can make!