A question or two about grip/stance

It depends...

If your ultimate goal is to deliver the most accurate shots as fast as possible, the VFG won't win. The thumb forward or over the HG will be faster. But that is not everyone's goal. Shooting is a fluid, feel, comfort endeavor which, to some degree means that each shooter adjusts their gear and stance to their goals, physique and needs. That does not mean anything goes.

When I instruct, I evaluate the student, put the timer on them and see what they are doing well, what they struggle with and then, make some suggestions to try out based on what I see them do, and what their goals are. I would rather have a confident and comfortable student who can make the hits than an uncomfortable one using the "one perfect way." If a student has a technique that will not let them meet their goals, is unsafe or will prevent them from gaining the fundamentals, sure, I will suggest they switch and put in enough time to undo and re-program suitable technique.

If you have not fired 1000 rounds or so with a "new" stance or hold, frankly you don't have enough information to make an informed choice as to whether it is better or worse. (Physical limitations aside).

I've fired approx 500 rds through this different grip, I quit because of the discomfort in my wrist. I should mention that I do point my left (support hand) thumb forward along the left side of the rail while using the vertical grip. I've used the M4/AR in my work (prior careers) as well as for fun (current life) so feel pretty comfortable on my use of this platform.

I never consider my self to old to learn new tricks-that's too narrow minded for me. I see a lot of the youngsters using this method so that got me curious. I asked my older son about it, he saw a few of the high speed low drag types use it when in the open but changed when clearing buildings, working their way around corners, etc.

Thanks for all the good responses, be safe.

I don't know about competition but the forward grip like the jerry pic is the way to go in the real world for stability and speed. I guess I never heard anyone say it felt awkward?

Some here will consider me a 'youngster' others and 'old fart' [Coffee] , but for what it's worth I'll describe my techniques: Regardless of position, my thumb is always forward. (I also shoot both right and left hand, right and left eye just to keep options open). Targets on average of 100m -200m I do use a 'hand forward' technique. Thumb isn't quite on top like the Jerry pic above, but hand is certainly far forward on the handguard. In CQC training, stock is collapsed, hand falls close to mag well, remote switch for illumination in place, but thumb always forward. Various other training techniques I could describe that are fun, but the point is, no matter where or which hand, the thumb forward is just my personal preference. Very content with my speed and accuracy. I've used vertical foregrips (a.k.a. broomsticks) of various kinds, I like the angled Magpul on my 6.8, but thumb forward with or without a grip is pretty routine here. Always good to try something new, but the "what works for you" mentality goes a long way for many things, this included.

Badger

I agree with the "works for you" philosophy to a point. When you stop trying to get more efficient, then you've become stagnant and will fall behind. Remember, if you're carrying a weapon for defense then you accept that somewhere out there, someone is training to kill you. If you have to face that person, don't count on luck or a complacent mindset if you want to survive.

Just remember kids ... once upon a time they laughed at Jack Weaver.

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Originally Posted by coloccw

If you have to face that person, don't count on luck or a complacent mindset if you want to survive.

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Whole heartedly agree. I've tried many techniques, in some areas amendments to my routine have changed, other areas I've reverted back to what worked for consistency. Never afraid to try something new, and granted sometimes 'comfort' takes a back seat to maintaining speed and accuracy. If my 'target' has the ability to end me just as quickly if not quicker, I'll gladly go through some pain to keep on breathing. Fortunately continued training has transformed any would-be awkward feeling movements into muscle memory. Probably getting off topic, but great point about complacency.


Badger

After two surgeries to my left shoulder I can say it doesn't work for me. It's not the "thumb forward" part of it that's problem. It's extending my arm like that. I see many people shooting that way and it does seem to work for them. It doesn't work for me. Not at this stage of the game, anyway.

There are lots of legitimate reasons why someone would want to stick to the "traditional" style. Physical limitations are just one. On the other hand, there are lots of reasons someone might try or adapt new techniques. Performance is just one.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Badger

Some here will consider me a 'youngster' others and 'old fart' [Coffee] , but for what it's worth I'll describe my techniques: Regardless of position, my thumb is always forward. (I also shoot both right and left hand, right and left eye just to keep options open). Targets on average of 100m -200m I do use a 'hand forward' technique. Thumb isn't quite on top like the Jerry pic above, but hand is certainly far forward on the handguard. In CQC training, stock is collapsed, hand falls close to mag well, remote switch for illumination in place, but thumb always forward. Various other training techniques I could describe that are fun, but the point is, no matter where or which hand, the thumb forward is just my personal preference. Very content with my speed and accuracy. I've used vertical foregrips (a.k.a. broomsticks) of various kinds, I like the angled Magpul on my 6.8, but thumb forward with or without a grip is pretty routine here. Always good to try something new, but the "what works for you" mentality goes a long way for many things, this included.

Badger

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Your style sounds very similar to mine with the difference being the Magpul v Knights vertical grip. Great post.

I truly appreciate the replies and the insights expressed, once again another reason I like this place. Be safe.