M1A Accelerator? Ryker Grip Hands-On Review

April 4th, 2022

8:51 runtime

Not too long ago, I got my hands on the M1A SOCOM 16 to review. If it tells you anything, this is my third review of it. I just can’t seem to stop having fun with this, and coming up with new ideas is a way to have more fun with it.

Shooter firing M1A SOCOM 16 rifle from standing position while testing Ryker Grip performance at outdoor shooting range. The side mounted foregrip is clearly visible on the rifle's rail system providing additional control point for the support hand. This Ryker Grip review demonstrates how the M1A foregrip assists with weapon stability during unsupported shooting positions. The side foregrip allows the shooter to maintain better control of the heavy SOCOM 16 platform compared to shooting without any grip attachment. The AR side grip design provides a unique handhold angle that differs from traditional vertical foregrips. Range testing shows the side grip AR15 style attachment works effectively on larger rifle platforms. The shooter's stance and grip positioning illustrate proper technique when using the Ryker Grip for improved accuracy. This hands-on testing validates the practical benefits of adding a side mounted foregrip to rifles used in standing or dynamic shooting scenarios. — The Ryker Grip makes a noticeable difference when shooting the M1A SOCOM 16 from a standing position. This side mounted foregrip provides solid control that you can feel immediately.

I was at a shooting event a little while back and came across a product called the “Ryker Grip”. When I first saw it, I thought it was a laser/light or something like that and it caught my attention. I quickly discovered it was a side-attached “vertical grip” (according to the ATF).

View through rifle scope showing sight picture with Ryker Grip visible in lower portion of field of view demonstrating optimal placement for shooters using magnified optics. The side mounted foregrip is positioned forward enough to avoid blocking the scope's view while remaining accessible for proper hand placement. This perspective illustrates how the M1A foregrip integrates with scout scope configurations commonly used on SOCOM 16 platforms. The side foregrip does not interfere with acquiring targets through the magnified optic at various power settings. Scout scopes typically mount further forward than traditional scopes making the AR side grip placement even more critical for balance and control. The Ryker Grip review includes testing with optics to verify the grip doesn't create sight picture obstruction during aiming and firing. Shooters can maintain clear views through their scope while benefiting from the improved stability the side grip AR15 mounting provides. The side mounted foregrip and scope work together as complementary accessories rather than competing for the same rail space or visual field. — Looking through the optic shows how the M1A foregrip doesn’t crowd your field of view. This side foregrip setup works well with magnified optics for versatile shooting applications.

I have to be honest; I thought, “really?”. How many ways can we market grips? What is wrong with the standard vertical grips I have? That was, until I held it and aimed. Again, I thought, “that feels really different/strange.” It only took a few seconds of holding it out aiming for me to start liking how it felt in my hands.

Side Mounted Foregrip on a SOCOM 16

The first thing that popped into my mind was how it would feel on my M1A SOCOM 16. To be frank, the SOCOM is a heavy gun and I had been thinking about trying a vertical grip on it. I really wanted to get one of these to put on it and put it to the test.

Close-up photograph of M1A SOCOM 16 rifle with Ryker Grip mounted to side rail showing the complete installation and positioning of the side mounted foregrip accessory. The M1A foregrip attaches securely to the Picatinny rail system providing a robust handhold for the support hand during shooting. The side foregrip design creates an angled grip surface that allows shooters to apply dynamic tension between both hands improving overall weapon stability. This Ryker Grip review showcases the physical installation showing how the grip extends from the rail at an optimal angle for hand placement. The AR side grip mounting system uses standard rail attachment hardware ensuring compatibility with various rifle platforms beyond just AR15 pattern rifles. Heavy rifles like the M1A SOCOM 16 benefit from the additional control point the side grip AR15 style attachment provides during unsupported shooting positions. The side mounted foregrip appears sturdy and well-constructed capable of handling the forces applied during dynamic shooting scenarios. Installation positioning places the Ryker Grip where it balances accessibility with weapon balance creating an ergonomic setup for improved marksmanship. — The Ryker Grip installed on the M1A creates a handhold that lets you apply dynamic tension for better stability. This side mounted foregrip changes how you control the rifle compared to standard grip options.

Ron, the founder and owner of Ryker Grips, was kind enough to send me home with one to test. He also had a prototype of a rail that went with the grip and, of course, my mind instantly envisioned putting my Viridian X5L-RS Gen 3 Laser/Light on this as well. So, as soon as I got home, I put this on my SOCOM and started playing with it.

Testing the Ryker Grip

It really does feel different in your hands, and in a good way. I can’t really explain it — you just have to hold it and see what you think. I had a buddy over to do some shooting and handed him the SOCOM with the Ryker on it. He held it up and said the exact same things.

Action photograph showing shooter's hand firmly gripping the Ryker Grip on M1A SOCOM 16 demonstrating proper hand placement and grip technique with the side mounted foregrip. The side foregrip allows the support hand to wrap around the grip securely creating a solid connection between shooter and rifle. This angle clearly shows how the M1A foregrip fills the hand providing a comfortable yet secure grip surface for maintaining weapon control. The Ryker Grip review includes documentation of actual grip technique showing how shooters naturally position their hands when using this side foregrip design. The shooter's hand position on the AR side grip illustrates the biomechanical advantages of the angled mounting compared to straight vertical grips. You can see the fingers wrapped completely around the side grip AR15 style attachment demonstrating it provides adequate grip surface area. The side mounted foregrip creates a handhold that allows the shooter to apply both pulling and pushing forces simultaneously for dynamic tension. This perspective validates that the Ryker Grip delivers a solid practical handhold rather than just looking good mounted on the rifle without real functional benefits. — The side mounted foregrip provides a handhold that’s immediately noticeable when you grip the rifle. You can see how the Ryker Grip allows for a natural hand position that creates tension for better control.

But all of these initial impressions are irrelevant. The only thing that really matters is if it makes a difference when you shoot. Check out the video at the top of this page to see how it worked out for me on the range.

The next thing I wanted to test was the Viridian X5L-RS Gen 3 Laser/Light in conjunction with the Ryker Grip. I have already reviewed the X5L, and I love it. In another review, I added a scout scope to my SOCOM for distance and hunting purposes.

Now, with a scout scope being able to dial down to 2X power magnification, it is easy to get quick target acquisition from 25 to 50 yards and beyond, but it can be a challenge under 25 yards to do it quickly. If this platform were to be used for CQB, I think we absolutely needed a laser/light for rapid target identification and acquisition under that distance.

Detail photograph showing Ryker Grip mounted on M1A SOCOM 16 with Viridian X5L remote pressure switch installed on the side mounted foregrip's integrated rail system. The M1A foregrip features a small Picatinny rail section on its surface providing perfect mounting location for remote switches and small accessories. The side foregrip design includes this rail space positioned where the shooter's thumb naturally rests during normal grip making switch activation intuitive and effortless. This Ryker Grip review highlights the dual functionality showing the grip provides both improved stability and valuable accessory mounting options. The AR side grip rail section holds the Viridian pressure pad securely placing light and laser controls directly under the shooter's thumb for instant activation. The side grip AR15 style attachment proves more versatile than simple grips by incorporating functional rail space for tactical accessories. The side mounted foregrip rail positioning is superior to mounting pressure pads elsewhere on the rifle because it places controls at the natural grip point. This setup demonstrates how the Ryker Grip maximizes rail real estate by adding functional space exactly where shooters need it for optimal weapon system integration. — Not only did the Ryker Grip assist with shooting stability, it also added a perfect rail space for a remote Viridian X5L light switch.

The X5L-RS did NOT disappoint. Now, instead of mounting the laser on the Ryker accessory rail, I found the perfect set-up was to put the laser on the other side and use the rail for the pressure pad. With the way the grip is positioned, it was a match made in heaven. Don’t take my word for it, see for yourself! Just when I think I have exhausted new ways to have fun with my SOCOM, I come up with something new.

Ryker Grip Review: Bottom Line

If you plan on carrying your M1A SOCOM 16 and shooting from an unsupported position (standing), you are going to want to consider the Ryker Grip for yourself. If you do decide to put a scout scope on your SOCOM, you can still use it for CQB with the Viridian X5L. You can “have your cake and eat it too” — my favorite thing to do.

FAQ: Ryker Grip Review

What is the Ryker Grip?

The Ryker Grip is a side-mounted foregrip that attaches to your rifle’s Picatinny rail. It’s classified as a vertical grip by the ATF but mounts to the side of the rail instead of underneath. The grip provides an angled handhold that creates dynamic tension between your hands for improved stability. It also includes a small rail section on the grip itself for mounting accessories like pressure pads.

Does the Ryker Grip work on the M1A SOCOM 16?

Yes. The Ryker Grip works great on the M1A SOCOM 16. The SOCOM is a heavy rifle and the side mounted foregrip helps manage that weight during unsupported shooting positions. The grip mounts to any standard Picatinny rail section on the rifle. It’s particularly useful if you’re shooting standing or in dynamic positions where you need better control.

How does the Ryker Grip compare to traditional vertical grips?

The Ryker Grip feels completely different from traditional vertical grips. Instead of mounting underneath the rail it mounts to the side. This creates a different hand angle and allows you to apply tension in a way that feels more natural. You really have to hold it to understand the difference. It’s not just a marketing gimmick – the side foregrip actually changes how you control the rifle.

Can you mount accessories on the Ryker Grip?

Yes. The M1A foregrip includes a small Picatinny rail section on the grip body. This rail is perfect for mounting pressure pads for lights and lasers. The rail position puts switches right where your thumb naturally rests making activation intuitive. In testing the Viridian X5L remote switch mounted perfectly on the Ryker Grip rail.

Does the Ryker Grip interfere with optics?

No. The side mounted foregrip doesn’t interfere with scopes or red dots. When using a scout scope on the SOCOM 16 the Ryker Grip sits forward enough to not block your sight picture. You might see the edge of the grip in your peripheral vision through the scope but it doesn’t obstruct target acquisition or aiming.

Is the Ryker Grip good for CQB applications?

Yes. The AR side grip works well for close quarters situations especially when combined with a weapon-mounted light and laser. The integrated rail on the grip gives you perfect placement for a pressure switch. You can run a scout scope for distance work and still use the rifle effectively at close range with a laser and the Ryker Grip for quick target acquisition under 25 yards.

Does the Ryker Grip actually improve shooting accuracy?

The side grip AR15 style attachment improves stability which can lead to better accuracy. It’s most noticeable when shooting from standing or unsupported positions. The dynamic tension you create with the grip helps manage recoil and keeps the rifle steadier during strings of fire. Whether it improves your accuracy depends on your shooting technique but it definitely provides better control.

What rifles is the Ryker Grip compatible with?

The Ryker Grip works with any rifle that has a Picatinny rail section for mounting. While it’s often called an AR side grip it works on AR15s, M1A rifles, and other platforms with standard rails. You just need enough rail space to mount the grip securely. The side mounted foregrip concept translates well across different rifle types.

Is the Ryker Grip worth it for the M1A SOCOM 16?

If you plan on shooting your SOCOM from standing or unsupported positions the Ryker Grip is worth considering. The SOCOM is a heavy rifle and the side foregrip makes a noticeable difference in how you control it. The added rail space for accessories is a bonus. It’s not essential but it does improve the shooting experience especially during longer range sessions.

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Springfield Armory® recommends you seek qualified and competent training from a certified instructor prior to handling any firearm and be sure to read your owner’s manual. These articles and videos are considered to be suggestions and not recommendations from Springfield Armory. The views and opinions expressed on this website are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Springfield Armory.

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Beyond Seclusion

Drew of “Beyond “Seclusion” earned both his bachelor of science in nursing and his master of science in nursing from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He has always had a love of the outdoors and shooting and has been shooting for 40+ years. He started a YouTube Channel reviewing guns and ammo just for fun and it is now a full-time business for him. He resides in southeast Nebraska with his lovely wife DeeDee and his two children Adree and Wyatt.

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