Materials 101

Here at VZ Grips, we primarily use G10 laminates in the manufacturing of our grips. We also use other laminates, such as Micarta, carbon fiber, and stabilized wood. So what’s the difference? Well, let’s run through the characteristics of the two we use most: G10 and Micarta.

G-10

G-10 (jEE tEn) is a high-pressure fiberglass laminate created by stacking multiple layers of glass cloth—similar to a boat hull. This process involves soaking the glass in epoxy resin, then applying heat and pressure to compress it into the desired shape, primarily sheets and rods. As with most fiberglass materials, this layered construction provides exceptional strength and durability.

G-10 exhibits excellent properties and offers a lifetime of use without maintenance. Its insulating qualities, strength, fire resistance, electrical insulation, and moisture resistance make it an ideal material for manufacturing grips in the firearms industry. G-10 will not rust or oxidize, nor will it become brittle or soften over time, making it essentially maintenance-free.

Unlike other materials such as bone, wood, horn, or certain metals used by other grip makers, G-10 stands up well to the test of time. Because it is an excellent insulator, it also serves as an effective heat barrier between your hands and a hot pistol or rifle. Our rail panels are a great accessory for your AR and fully automatic rifles.

Micarta

Micarta is a trade name given to thermoset laminates by Westinghouse in the 1890s. “Phenolic” is another term used to describe this hard, dense material. Phenolic sheets are made by applying heat and pressure to layers of paper or cotton (linen or canvas) impregnated with phenolic resin. Similar to G-10 and carbon fiber laminates, which are all resin-based materials, Micarta uses a more organic cloth base and a phenolic resin. Micarta is not as strong as G-10, but it is still very durable. It has even been called “the steel of the plastic industry.”

Both materials are excellent for manufacturing gun grips. We tend to use G-10 more often because it is easier to finish to the desired end product. Micarta, due to its cotton or linen base, comes off CNC machines with a somewhat “fuzzy” texture, which requires more time to finish—but the results look outstanding.