NcSTAR 1913 Vertical Short Grip Review

What to Expect from the NcSTAR 1913 Vertical Short Grip

As an equipment specialist with a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve learned that sometimes the simplest pieces of gear offer the most impact. The NcSTAR 1913 Vertical Short Grip is one such item that caught my eye. It’s designed to add a more stable, ergonomic point of contact to firearms equipped with a standard 1913 Picatinny rail, a common feature on many modern platforms. My search for a compact vertical grip that wouldn’t add unnecessary bulk led me to this particular model. It presented an appealing alternative to larger, more cumbersome grips, and the integrated accessory rail was a significant draw. My initial impression upon handling it was positive; it felt surprisingly robust for its price point. I briefly considered a few other generic rail-mounted grips, but their lack of any secondary features or distinctive build quality made them less compelling. This NcSTAR grip offered an immediate sense of practical utility.

Real-World Testing: Putting NcSTAR 1913 Vertical Short Grip to the Test

First Use Experience

I integrated one of these grips onto a CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 carbine, a platform where foregrip ergonomics can significantly enhance handling. The mounting process onto the carbine’s lower receiver Picatinny rail was straightforward. It securely clamped down with a single screw, requiring minimal effort to achieve a firm lock. In hand, the grip felt natural, providing a solid resting place for my support hand’s fingers, particularly my pinky which often dangles with shorter grips. The textured polymer offered sufficient purchase, even when my hands were slightly damp from a humid day at the range.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months, this short vertical grip has seen consistent use on the Scorpion EVO, alongside sporadic installations on other carbine platforms for comparative testing. It has been subjected to the typical rigors of range days, including being stowed in a rifle bag, occasional accidental bumps, and exposure to temperature fluctuations. Despite this, the grip has shown no signs of cracking or degradation. The polymer composite has proven resilient, and the texture remains effective without being abrasive.

The storage compartment, accessed by a twist-and-pull mechanism, has proven surprisingly useful for stashing a spare battery for an optic or a small cleaning kit. This feature, often overlooked in smaller grips, adds a valuable layer of practicality. Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth, and its compact size makes it easy to store when not in use. Compared to other vertical grips I’ve used, both budget and premium, this NcSTAR model holds its own, especially considering its modest price. It doesn’t possess the machined aluminum feel of a high-end grip, but for its intended purpose and material, it performs admirably.

Breaking Down the Features of NcSTAR 1913 Vertical Short Grip

Specifications

This NcSTAR 1913 Vertical Short Grip is constructed from a quality reinforced polymer composite, which contributes to its lightweight yet durable nature. Its height is 2.75 inches, making it a decidedly short vertical grip, ideal for those who prefer a more minimalist foregrip solution. The grip is designed to mount onto any 1913 MIL-STD Picatinny side accessory rail. A key feature is the inclusion of two Picatinny side clamp mounts. One clamp is plain, while the other boasts an additional side mounted 1913 MIL-STD Picatinny accessory rail, perfect for small accessories like lights, lasers, or grips. The grip also features a storage compartment accessible via a twist-and-pull mechanism, suitable for small items like batteries or cleaning supplies. The textured finish ensures a secure hold.

These specifications translate directly into practical benefits. The reinforced polymer ensures it can withstand moderate impacts and pressure without failing, while remaining light enough not to add significant weight to a firearm. The short height is a deliberate design choice, catering to users who don’t want their support hand to extend too far forward, allowing for more compact shooting stances. The integrated Picatinny rail is a standout advantage, offering modularity that many basic vertical grips lack. This allows for the addition of other mission-essential accessories without needing a separate rail segment, keeping the firearm cleaner and more streamlined. The storage compartment adds a layer of utility that can be surprisingly convenient for essential small items, reducing the need to carry extras separately.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this vertical grip is to enhance weapon control and stability. It excels at this by providing a more positive hand placement than a simple handguard. The textured surface offers a reliable grip, even in less-than-ideal conditions. Mounting it onto a firearm with a Picatinny rail is typically a simple affair, requiring just a few turns of a screw to achieve a solid, wobble-free attachment.

Its performance is particularly noticeable on shorter carbine platforms where a compact grip is beneficial for maneuverability. The ability to quickly access the internal storage compartment by twisting and pulling the base is also a functional win. This compartment is perfectly sized for spare CR123 batteries or a small bore snake, keeping them readily accessible. While it’s a simple design, its execution is solid, providing reliable functionality for its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the NcSTAR 1913 Vertical Short Grip is inherently practical and utilitarian. The reinforced polymer construction gives it a solid feel, avoiding the flimsy sensation often associated with extremely low-cost accessories. The short stature means it doesn’t protrude excessively, maintaining a low profile.

Ergonomically, it fits well in the hand for most users, providing a natural resting point. For smaller hands or those who prefer a closer grip, it’s ideal. For individuals with very large hands, the pinky finger might find itself with little to no purchase, which is to be expected given its dimensions. The integrated Picatinny rail on the side of one of the included clamp mounts is a clever design element, adding versatility without significantly increasing the grip’s bulk. The textured finish is consistent and provides adequate friction.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, the reinforced polymer used in this grip appears to be quite durable. It has withstood impacts and daily use without showing signs of stress fractures or significant wear. The mounting mechanism, a simple screw clamp, has also held up well, maintaining a secure grip on the rail.

Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean. The storage compartment’s seal, while not hermetic, is sufficient to keep dust and moisture out under normal conditions, protecting its contents. It’s not designed for extreme environments or submersion, but for typical field and range use, its durability is more than adequate for the price. There are no complex parts to break or maintain, making it a low-fuss accessory.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary accessory feature of this grip is its integrated Picatinny rail. This allows for the attachment of small accessories like weapon lights, lasers, or even other compact grips or hand stops. The grip itself comes with two clamp mounts: one standard, and another that includes the side-mounted accessory rail.

This provides a degree of customization right out of the box. Users can choose which clamp mount to use based on whether they need the additional rail space. While the grip itself is not customizable in terms of color or material, its compatibility with the ubiquitous 1913 Picatinny standard means it integrates seamlessly with a vast array of existing firearms and accessories.

Pros and Cons of NcSTAR 1913 Vertical Short Grip

Who Should Buy NcSTAR 1913 Vertical Short Grip?

This vertical grip is an excellent choice for individuals looking for an affordable, functional foregrip solution for their firearms equipped with 1913 Picatinny rails. It’s particularly well-suited for owners of compact carbines, pistol-caliber carbines like the CZ Scorpion Evo, or AR-style rifles where a shorter grip is preferred. Anyone who appreciates the added stability and control a vertical grip offers, but doesn’t want a large, obtrusive accessory, will find this model appealing. It’s also a great option for those who can utilize the integrated accessory rail for a small light or laser without needing a full-length rail segment.

However, those who require an ultra-secure, submersible storage compartment or prefer the feel of metal-constructed grips might want to look at more premium options. For general range use, competitive shooting where space is limited, or home defense applications, it’s a very solid contender. I’d recommend pairing it with a small, lightweight accessory like a compact weapon light or a micro red dot if you choose the clamp with the accessory rail.

Conclusion on NcSTAR 1913 Vertical Short Grip

The NcSTAR 1913 Vertical Short Grip punches well above its weight class, offering a blend of practical features and solid construction at an almost unbelievable price point. It successfully addresses the need for a compact, stable foregrip while adding valuable modularity with its integrated accessory rail and functionality with its storage compartment. The reinforced polymer feels durable enough for regular use, and the textured finish ensures a secure grip.

For its $12.99 price, the value proposition is outstanding. It’s a “hidden gem” that provides tangible benefits for any shooter looking to enhance their firearm’s ergonomics without breaking the bank. I wholeheartedly recommend this grip to anyone in the market for a short vertical foregrip, especially those who can take advantage of the secondary rail. It’s a simple, effective, and surprisingly versatile accessory that proves good gear doesn’t always need a high price tag.