It looks as if grip manufacturers are using more and more, hi-tech materials, to come up with new alternatives for your old workhorse. VZ Grips are making their sets out of micarta, a trade name that was given to thermoset composites back in the 1890’s by Westinghouse.

Micarta is characterized by:

1. Durability: Micarta® has a higher tensile strength than steel. It is used in storm shelters to provide state of the art protection rooms to ward off the threats from tornadoes. It is also being tested to armor aircraft cockpit doors.
2. Impervious to changes in temperature: This material will not swell, warp, or crack with changes in temperature. It is an excellent insulator against heat. Unlike other so called high-end grips on the market, ours stays cool and comfortable.
3. Texture: When milled, Micarta gives a highly slip resistant surface.

There are three basic types of Micarta®: Paper, Linen, and Canvas. Paper Micarta® is denser in color and thus more decorative. Linen Micarta® is medium grade in toughness and durability, it renders a good texture and intriguing appearance when milled. Canvas Micarta® is the strongest and the best in texture of the three. Pieces of canvas protrude through the laminate when milled adding additional texture to the grip. It has that rugged personality and a definite A+ on the cool factor scale.

VZ Grips are offered in what their manufacturer calls “Gator Back”. When looking at the grips horizontally, they resemble the back hide of the American Alligator. It is an aggressive design that when milled into our Micarta not only gives an appealing appearance but a comfortable non-slip grip.

Below, you can see some pictures of their grips.

You can find some more grip styles here.