The Viability Of The Vertical Foregrip

by
posted on July 23, 2024
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Vertical Foregrip
Photo by author

Chris Sajnog, former Navy SEAL small arms instructor, once wrote that the vertical foregrip (VFG) was one of the single worst things to ever happen to marksmanship. But, for many years, it seemed like the VFG was the one must-have accessory that everyone kept on their rifles—whether it was a big broom-handle-like thing, a chunky Grip Pod or the “stubby” variety that gained popularity later.

The VFG attachment gained popularity as part of the Special Operations Peculiar Modification (SOPMOD) program. The goal was to provide flexibility when configuring an M4 carbine. One challenge was the various illuminators and infrared designators that hung off the railed handguard. These devices left nowhere for the user to put his supporting hand. Taking a note from other rifle designs such as the Steyr AUG, the program office included a conspicuous vertical grip below the handguard, allowing the shooter to maintain control of the firearm.

Despite the context of a short handguard, VFGs proliferated to other configurations like the M16A4, which didn’t have the same handguard real-estate limitations. So, what’s the deal? If they are terrible for marksmanship and unnecessary on modern long handguards, why would you ever use one?

The answer comes down to updated shooting styles and comfort for carry. If you use the VFG like a handstop rather than an actual grip, it works great. Reaching forward and pressing the rear of your palm against the VFG offers a consistent and secure hand position every time. The VFG also helps ease wrist strain when carrying a rifle for hours on end. These days, a VFG is inexpensive and worth trying out for your needs. Start by placing it just behind your normal support-hand position on the handguard and try it out. Adjust it forward or backward from there as necessary.

Latest

Gotw Rra Lar 22 Tactical Carbine Web
Gotw Rra Lar 22 Tactical Carbine Web

Gun Of The Week: Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine

This week, we're on the range with the Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine, a rimfire variant of the AR-15 that's designed for reliability and gives enthusiasts a way to shoot affordably.

The Armed Citizen® July 11, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Japanese Last-Ditch Small Arms Of World War II

The crude assortment of fighting tools used by the Japanese during World War II give clues of an unprepared and unmatched last-ditch fight that ultimately lead to Allied victory.

Federal Ammunition Awards 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships

Federal Ammunition recently awarded the 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships to two 4-H shooting sports teen ambassadors.

2025 Optic Of The Year: Burris Eliminator 6

Even as new generation after new generation of Burris Eliminator continued to add more advanced technology and functionality, it remained odd-looking—until the launch of this year’s sixth-generation product, which is the first in the line that can mount atop a rifle using standard 34 mm scope rings.

I Have This Old Gun: Star Model B

Of the many Spanish-made firearms to emerge throughout the 19th and 20th century, one of the most recognizable is the Star Model B, largely due to its similarity to the Colt Model 1911.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.