Semi-automatic rifles are legal in California and New York though they must meet a list of criteria. One term you might have heard if you’re in the market for an AR-15 or AK-47 is “featureless,” which means they lack genetic characteristics that define these rifles as assault rifles. One part that falls under these laws is the pistol grip, something that owners will have to replace.
That doesn’t mean that owning an AR-15 or AK-47 is illegal, it just means that owners may have to replace the grip. Replacing the grip is not always the most desired thing to do with a rifle, as it may change the feel when it’s in your hands. Plus, you want your rifle to be fully functional, giving you the same specs as the original product.
Replacing a grip takes some careful selection, as some on the market are bulky, uncomfortable, and don’t fit the style of many AR-15s and AK-47s. That’s why we’ve selected the best featureless grips, all of which are compliant with California and New York state laws.
Best AR-15 & AK-47 Featureless Grips
- Strike Industries Simple AR Grip
- Resurgent Arms Grip
- Battle Fin Grip Featureless AK-47 Grip
- Thorsden Stock AR-15 Grip
- Exile Machine Hammerhead Grip
Strike Industries Simple AR Grip
One of the first things you’ll notice is the feel, thanks to the textured grip that hugs the fingers for a good solid grip. This grip is on the simpler side, allowing users to enjoy a comfortable and affordable grip for all their shooting needs. This featureless grip features an ergonomic angle that helps with positioning and helps provide more security with a tight glove-like fit.
It’s easy to snap on and 100% compliant with California and New York state laws making it a solid replacement for the prohibited protruding grip.
Key Features
- Contoured and enforced grip angles
- Meets the DOJ criteria in California and New York
- Ergonomic design
Resurgent Arms Grip
Resurgent Arms took the time to smooth out every single curve. The result was this beautiful grip with contoured surfaces that fit in the hand like a dream. The design features thumb shelves on both sides and an interior storage option too. Because the thumb can rest on the opposite side, it doesn’t scrape up the web, something that we really enjoyed.
With a decent price tag, steady grip, and a long list of satisfied customer reviews, the Resurgent Arms grip is a great choice to transform your rifle into a featureless rifle.
Key Features
- Ergonomically designed for the best angle
- Stock Stop for an adjustable stock
- Fluted thread protector
- Compliant with New York and California laws
Battle Fin Grip Featureless AK-47 Grip
Molded from rigid glass-filled nylon, this grip is durable and comfortable. With an ambidextrous design and universal fit, you can get into your preferred position enjoying a comfortable grip from all angles. Designed with a breakaway feature and a swept-back angle, it’s 100% adaptable to all angles and a universal fit for all AK platform rifles.
Key Features
- Ambidextrous design
- Universal fit compatible with all AK platform rifles
- Breakaway feature
- Compliant with New York and California Laws
Thorsden Stock AR-15 Grip
Equipped with black oxide-coated steel, this grip is compatible with lots of brands and models, including forged AR-15s and Black Rain Ordnance AR-10s. This grip features a quick detach sling, interchangeable side panels, and a checkered grip for increased stability.
With a length of 13.5” and a weight of 11.5 oz, this grip offers a mix of comfort, stability, and function that will classify your rifle as legal.
Key Features
- Quick detach sling features
- Checkered grip for enforced handling
- Interchangeable side panels
- Rubber butt-pad
- Lots of compatible accessories
Exile Machine Hammerhead Grip
When you take ahold of your rifle with an Exile Machine Hammerhead replacement, you’ll notice it has a wooden rifle feel. It boasts a mass of 170g without any of the hardware and is made of 33% glass-filled nylon. With operating temperatures up to 245C, this grip has enough to pack a punch at the shooting range and, when properly configured, will keep your rifle legal for use.
Key Features
- Glass-filled nylon body
- Tensile strength >197Pa
- Operating temp up to 245C
- Weighs in at 170g
Why You Need a Compliant Rifle Grip
However, replacing a few of the features will allow you to register it as a normal firearm in certain states. When it comes to the grip, there are two definitions that classify as an assault weapon feature.
1. Forward Pistol Grip – This kind of grip is just like the pistol-style grasp and lies in front of the trigger.
2. Protruding Pistol Grip – Another form of pistol style grasp, this setup has the web of the trigger below the exposed portion of the trigger when firing.
Because this AR-15 and AK-47 style grip come standard on most guns, you’ll have to replace the grip, which is why we’re here.
Featureless Grip Buying Guide: Things to Consider
The market is full of grips but, not all of them are made the same. Some provide comfort, others have a sharp look, but only the best fuse both. When you’re on the hunt for a grip to keep your AR-15 and AK-47 compliant, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Legality
Because of their assault weapon classification, it’s required for owners to keep their firearms legally. Before purchasing any grip, make sure that it meets requirements in California and New York. Purchasing a grip that is approved for use changes the setup into a featureless firearm, one that can be legally owned in both states.
Durability
If this is your first time creating a legal rifle, then you might not know too much about different brands. The most important thing to consider when checking for durability is the material. You want something sturdy enough to last but comfortable and firm enough to rest in the hands comfortably.
Featureless grips are a standard feature that many rifle enthusiasts are after, making them an in-demand product. That means that there are some quality picks.
The Feel
The comfort and feel of the grip are some of the most important things that you should check for. See how it feels in your hand and make sure that it’s not slipping or preventing a straight shot. Make sure that you can get a solid grip and that your hand rests comfortably for a straight shoot.
The better the grip you have, the stronger the hold you can take, which will improve accuracy, reliability, and overall performance. All of these things and more are what you want from a grip, enjoying the same shoot even if you have to change the standard grip.
The Budget
If you’re on a tight budget, it’s easy to just go for the cheapest grip you find. Still, you may throw away several features if you do that, which could take away from the quality of your shoot. It’s better to know what you like and take some time to save up before purchasing to get a few extra features.
If your budget is a little higher, you’ll have more choices but, don’t always just go for the most expensive one. Instead, try out different grips to see what you like and then make your decision from there.
The Look
When it comes to purchasing a firearm, it’s not just about function; the looks are important too. Go with a grip that goes with your setup, making it look the way that you want it to. Most of the companies that you will find on the web focus on build and comfort for the grip. If you’re following a certain theme, try and find a grip that is closest to your setup but doesn’t sacrifice the feel.
The Functionality
Perhaps the most important thing that you should focus on is functionality. Grips are meant to help you keep your weapon stable and give you the best angle when it comes time to shoot. Above all else, make sure that your rifle is useable and gives you the flexibility and usability that you were hoping for.
Testing your Grip
Many people have enough grip to fire a standard rifle so there is no need to overdo it. Still, you should test your new grip out for a few things, making sure you have the best possible hold.
Grip Pressure
If you’re a frequent shooter, you probably already have a good grip and can gauge how your new grip feels quickly. However, newbies out there will need to work with this grip and develop good practices, something that will come with time.
Initial Shot Vs. Follow-Up Shots
Taking your first shot is telling but, so are those to follow. Your first shot will help you see how much control you have over your rifle, helping you see if you need to tighten your grip or not.
Alignment
You can also test your grip with a quick alignment test. Can you hit the same area or space twice? If you can’t get close, you may need to adjust your grip and keep it steady.
Before You Go
Picking any of these featureless grips, you’ll not only have a compliant rifle but also have some of the best grips on the market.
Find a grip that works for you and gives you the hold and accuracy you were hoping for.
