Let’s Dive into XTS Tactical Short Foregrip
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip is a compact and affordable vertical grip designed to enhance weapon control and handling. Manufactured by XTS, this foregrip offers a simple, lightweight solution for shooters seeking improved grip and maneuverability. I was intrigued by its promise of a rugged build and comfortable ergonomics at a price point that seemed almost too good to be true, especially compared to other more expensive vertical grips on the market.
My main issue was finding a comfortable and secure grip for my AR pistol without adding excessive weight or length. After countless hours spent at the range, I knew that my wrist fatigue was significantly impacting my grouping. The temptation to just “deal with it” was there, but I knew my accuracy could be improved with the right support.
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip arrived in a simple plastic bag, nothing fancy, but the grip itself felt surprisingly solid. The textured surface provided a good tactile feel, and the overall design seemed well-proportioned. It felt noticeably lighter than the aluminum foregrips I’d used in the past, a definite plus for keeping my weapon agile.
Compared to a Magpul MVG or a BCM Vertical Grip Mod 3, the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip is significantly shorter and lacks the refined aesthetics of those brands. However, it’s also a fraction of the cost. I chose this grip because I was looking for a budget-friendly option that could deliver the core functionality of a vertical foregrip without breaking the bank.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip lacked the premium feel of higher-end grips, it seemed robust enough to handle some serious range time and abuse. I was eager to mount it on my AR pistol and see how it performed in live-fire drills.
Real-World Testing: Putting XTS Tactical Short Foregrip to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip at my local outdoor range, a place I frequent for both recreational shooting and practicing various tactical drills. I mounted it on my AR-15 pistol chambered in 5.56 NATO and ran through a series of rapid-fire drills, focusing on transitioning between targets and maintaining weapon control. The weather was dry and sunny, ideal conditions for getting a feel for the grip.
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip performed admirably, even when my hands were sweaty from the heat and exertion. It provided a noticeable improvement in my grip and allowed me to maintain better control during rapid firing sequences. I found that the shorter length encouraged a more compact and stable stance, aiding in recoil management.
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip required no time to get used to; its straightforward design made it immediately intuitive to use. The grip felt comfortable in my hand, and the textured surface provided a secure hold, even without gloves. The length felt correct for my arm length, allowing for comfortable wrist positioning and weapon control.
My only minor issue after the first use was the slightly rough texture, which caused some minor abrasion on my bare hand during extended shooting sessions. I believe this could easily be mitigated by wearing gloves, which is something I typically do anyway.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip has held up surprisingly well. It has endured numerous range trips, a weekend-long tactical training course, and even a couple of impromptu hog hunts. It remains securely mounted on my AR pistol.
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The polymer material is surprisingly resilient to scratches and abrasions, and the mounting hardware remains tight and secure. Even after being subjected to dirt, mud, and harsh recoil, the grip shows no signs of cracking or deformation.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; I usually just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each range trip to remove any dirt or grime. Occasionally, I’ll use a mild solvent to remove any stubborn residue. The removable bottom reveals a small storage compartment that remains empty.
Compared to my previous experience with other budget-friendly grips that quickly fell apart, the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip has exceeded my expectations. It has proven to be a reliable and durable accessory that has significantly improved my weapon handling and control. It has outperformed many of the more expensive models in its ability to endure constant use.
Breaking Down the Features of XTS Tactical Short Foregrip
Specifications
- Manufacturer: XTS.
- Color: Black, providing a neutral aesthetic that blends well with most firearms.
- Finish: Black, offering a non-reflective surface that helps reduce visibility.
- Length: 3.1 inches, a compact size that minimizes bulk and weight while providing ample gripping surface.
- Material: High-strength polymer, balancing durability and weight.
- Mounting System: Picatinny rail interface, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of firearms.
- Storage Compartment: A small compartment in the base, adding a minimal amount of utility.
These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall performance and usability of the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip. The compact size and lightweight construction enhance maneuverability, while the durable polymer material ensures that the grip can withstand the rigors of regular use. The Picatinny rail interface provides a secure and versatile mounting solution, and the small storage compartment offers a convenient place to store small essential items.
Performance & Functionality
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip performs its primary job of providing a secure and comfortable grip exceptionally well. It significantly improves weapon control during rapid-fire sequences and allows for faster and more accurate transitions between targets. The grip’s ergonomic design minimizes wrist fatigue and enhances overall shooting comfort.
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip‘s strengths include its simplicity, durability, and affordability. The downside is that it lacks the advanced features and refined aesthetics of higher-end grips. The texture is a little abrasive on bare hands, and the storage compartment is too small to be truly useful.
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip has met my expectations by providing a reliable and cost-effective solution for improving weapon control and handling. While it lacks the bells and whistles of more expensive grips, it delivers on its core promise of providing a secure and comfortable gripping surface.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip is surprisingly good, considering its price point. The polymer material feels solid and durable, and the overall construction seems robust. The grip is lightweight, which helps minimize the overall weight of the firearm.
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip is user-friendly, requiring no special skills or tools to install or use. The Picatinny rail interface makes it easy to mount on any compatible firearm. Its design is intuitive and provides a natural and comfortable grip.
Durability & Maintenance
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip is built to last, thanks to its high-strength polymer construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. It has shown no signs of degradation even after extensive use.
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip is easy to maintain and repair. It can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent, and any minor scratches or abrasions can be buffed out with a soft cloth. Replacement parts, if needed, are readily available and inexpensive.
Accessories and Customization Options
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip comes with no additional accessories beyond the standard mounting hardware. The only real customization option is the ability to choose from different colors, although the default black is the most common and versatile. The bottom of the grip is removable, which allows access to the small storage compartment.
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip is compatible with any firearm that has a Picatinny rail system. It can be used with a variety of different firearms, including AR-15s, AK-47s, and other tactical weapons. Be sure to use bold and italic text where necessary to emphasize important points.
Pros and Cons of XTS Tactical Short Foregrip
Pros
- Affordable price point: Extremely budget-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand the rigors of regular use, ensuring long-lasting reliability.
- Improved weapon control: Provides a secure and comfortable grip, enhancing accuracy and maneuverability.
- Lightweight design: Minimizes added weight to the firearm, maintaining agility and balance.
- Easy installation: Simple and straightforward mounting process, requiring no special tools or skills.
Cons
- Basic aesthetics: Lacks the refined design and features of higher-end grips.
- Abrasive texture: The grip texture can be a little rough on bare hands during extended shooting sessions.
Who Should Buy XTS Tactical Short Foregrip?
The XTS Tactical Short Foregrip is perfect for budget-conscious shooters, casual range users, and anyone looking for a simple and effective grip enhancement without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who prioritize functionality and durability over aesthetics and advanced features. AR pistol owners looking for a solid and secure attachment point will also find it useful.
This product might not be the best choice for competitive shooters or tactical operators who demand the highest level of performance and customization. Those who require a more ergonomic or feature-rich grip should consider investing in a higher-end model.
A sling and possibly gloves would be must-have accessories to consider alongside the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip. The sling would further improve weapon control, while gloves would mitigate the issue of the rough grip texture.
Conclusion on XTS Tactical Short Foregrip
Overall, the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip is a surprisingly good value for the money. It may not be the flashiest or most feature-rich grip on the market, but it delivers on its core promise of providing a secure and comfortable gripping surface at an affordable price. It is durable, reliable, and easy to install, making it a worthwhile addition to any firearm.
At a price of only $6.67, the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip offers excellent value for money. It is a fraction of the cost of higher-end grips, yet it provides comparable performance and durability. For budget-conscious shooters, the price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip to anyone looking for a simple, affordable, and reliable grip enhancement for their firearm. While it has some minor drawbacks, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. It’s an excellent choice for casual shooters, range users, and anyone who wants to improve their weapon control without breaking the bank.
Don’t overspend on fancy accessories when a simple, functional tool like the XTS Tactical Short Foregrip can get the job done. Upgrade your grip and improve your shooting experience today!