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AR-15 RETRO PISTOL GRIP Reviews & Ratings

AR-15 RETRO PISTOL GRIPS

Recreate an American Classic with the Brownells M16A1 Pistol Grip, built to accurately replicate the original Grip issued to thousands of American servicemen & women. This Pistol Grip is modeled directly off of original grips, which are becoming increasingly difficult to find, or in decent condition. Combine the M16A1 Pistol Grip with the matching Handguard Set & Buttstock Assembly from Brownells, and you have a new condition furniture set for your AR-15, M16, M16A1 or other early model rifle. Pistol Grip includes incstruction, grip screw & washer. Available in several different colors including:

Black - Proper for Model 602, XM16E1, M16A1 & later generation rifles introduced after 1963
Green - Proper for early Model 601 rifles, the first AR-15 adopted by the US Air Force in 1959
Brown - Similar to the earliest AR-15 Prototype rifle furniture used in the late 1950s

Retro furniture from Brownells is not an exact copy of original components or their construction. Some areas have been changed due to manufacturing methods or to avoid counterfeit concerns.

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1 Stars

Reviews Summary

Customers rave about the AR-15 Retro Pistol Grip, praising its near-identical resemblance to original models and high-quality material. However, some note minor installation issues, like shallow safety detent spring holes which may require drilling. Overall, it’s considered the best reproduction grip, ideal for retro builds.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Product Quality

80%

Many reviewers are impressed by the quality of the AR-15 Retro Pistol Grip, noting its remarkable similarity to original models and superb finish. This consistency in quality contributes significantly to customer satisfaction, making it a top choice for retro builds.

Installation Issues

40%

A number of reviews point out installation challenges, particularly related to the shallow spring hole for the safety detent. While many managed to resolve these issues with minor adjustments, this feedback suggests that the manufacturing quality has room for improvement.

Fit and Compatibility

30%

Overall, customers find the grip fits well with their builds, although some experienced alignment issues with certain lower receivers. Most agree that for retro builds, this grip is a great match for other components, solidifying its reputation in the market.

Value for Money

75%

Reviewers frequently mention the grip's affordability relative to its quality and performance. Many feel they received an excellent product for the price, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts wanting to complete retro builds.

Aesthetic Appearance

50%

Several reviews highlight the aesthetically pleasing look of the grip, with customers appreciating its classic design that evokes nostalgia. This aesthetic is particularly important for those looking to maintain authenticity in retro builds.

Customer Photos & Videos

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Needed rework to really work.

I purchased this A-1 clone pistol grip to take the place of the original A-2 style hand grip on my ten-year-old AR-15 carbine. Straight from its protective box, with a separate CMMG hex bolt and a locking washer, the exterior of the clone grip was pristine, however the internally drilled holes were jagged and in need of some serious deburring. The safety detent spring was drilled too shallowly, making the safety selector stiffer to engage or disengage. The top surfaces of this hand grip did not completely match those of my AR lower, however it does fit my hand better without the A2 style finger groove profile. So, after being reworked, this clone grip was installed and shall remain in use on my AR-15 rifle until something better comes along. Given the problems encountered, the value and price point did not meet my expectations, and I would not purchase this again.

by PittsburghJon49 on July 26, 2025

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Not great

I really like the retro pistol grip, but when I installed it the safety was very hard to operate. The safety spring inserted in my old Magpul grip only had 5 coils showing. For some reason the Retro had 8 coils showing. I thought I could drill down about 1/4" to fix this but the drill popped through into a void. Now my spring sank all the way into the grip. I was able to fix it with some Super Glue, and I'm sure Brownell's would have replaced if I had asked. I'm guessing mine was just a manufacturing defect.

by Jack on May 16, 2023

Verified Purchase

Was this review helpful? 2

Looks great, possibly some fitting req

Looks and feels better than the A2 grip I had on my 10.5" suppressed SBR with an A1 upper and CAR 15 stock. However after installing I could not get the safety to move. After comparing the safety detent spring hole depth between the old A2 grip and this A1 retro grip, I found the A1 grip's hole was too shallow. Nothing a drill couldn't fix, however this has been the only AR grip I've had to do this to. With that being said, getting one of these for a clone build, or clone inspired build is probably easier and cheaper than sourcing a real surplus A1 grip.

Feels good, but a small issue...

I have been wanting one of these traditional grips for some time. Unfortunately, I found the one I purchased has the safety detent spring hold drilled too shallow, so when installed the spring is under pressure and you cannot adjust the safety. Not a big deal as I just got a drill and compared it to my old grip, but it was something that should've been done correctly to begin.

An ok grip

I was able to stop at Brownell's showroom on the way through for work, so I was able to handle the parts in person. I decided to order the furniture kit. For the most part Im pleased. However.... It requires some work to install. I have to drill the hole for the bolt in the grip. Not a big deal, but think that would be pre drilled. Im glad I got the furniture kit, because if I would have had to pay $15 for just the grip AND have to drill the mounting hole I would have not been happy.