One of the first options many end-users want to upgrade on their new AR-15 is how they grasp the firearm with the second hand. The market is inundated with buzz words like “handstop, angled-grip and vertical grip” and unfortunately little information to discern which option works best in a given situation. With the variety of options available today it can be difficult to decide what features are important for each individual, as not everyone is looking for the same function when choosing a foregrip. In order to determine whether an AR-15 foregrip can improve accuracy and enhance the shooting experience, it is important to establish what constitutes a “foregrip” on the AR-15 platform, what specific function they are designed for, and what pros and cons exist for the many variations of them available on the market today. 

Controlling Recoil With Foregrips

First, it’s important to take a look at what exactly makes up an AR-15 foregrip, as not every control accessory available fits this definition. Typically, the off-hand method of shooting involves standing/kneeling while using the non-firing hand to support the weight of the rifle for more accurate shot attempts. The use of an off hand accessory to assist the user with controlling recoil has been around for quite some time, however the use of foregrips on the civilian market wasn’t popularized until after the GWOT saw militaries of the world begin to standardize their use. As the rifle platform has continued to evolve since then, so too have the styles of foregrip that can be attached. These have taken on many iterations over the years, from the original “broom handle” appearance that was popular in military use, to what now encompasses a broad array of foregrips in different angles, sizes, weights, and attachment methods.

With the variety of options available to the end user, there are many factors to consider when looking at foregrips for an AR-15. As more companies bring their own innovative solutions to market, it can be difficult to determine what features to focus on that will be applicable to shooting performance. Where items like the more traditional “broom handle” style of the Forward Grip by Knights Armament were once the only option, modern attachment platforms like MLOK and Keymod have allowed new variations to be developed for virtually any shooting style. 

A Solution For MLOK and Keymod

The RailScales designed Anchor AR-15 foregrip for MLOK and Keymod is a balanced mixture of both an angled and vertical grip combined into one product. It uses their patented COG system that allows for attachment to both MLOK and Keymod rail systems, and has a reversible design allowing for either a 70º or 90º angled attachment to the rail to allow for multiple shooting positions. Machined out of 6061 aluminum, and enhanced with multiple lightening cuts throughout, the Anchor is both durable and lightweight, coming in at only 1.7 oz, which allows for much more material strength over similarly weighted polymer offerings on the market. Both “grip” faces of the Anchor have the Honeycomb texture, popular on their namesake RailScales panels, which adds additional grip purchase in harsh shooting conditions. 

Upgrade Your AR-15 Platform

For those who aren’t looking for the stark, vertical face to grasp, and would like something more streamlined and tight to the rail, a handstop can be a great option. There are few products on the market that have the durability, versatility, and functionality of the Karve® by RailScales®. Having the option to run either direction for a push or pull configuration, utilizing RailScales® patented COG™ system that allows for use on both Keymod and MLOK rails, constructed of durable but lightweight aluminum, and available in a variety of colors, the Karve® truly stands apart from other offerings.