The MOE (Magpul Original Equipment) series of grips from Magpul are one of the easiest and least expensive upgrades to the AR platform that can be had. They offer a variety of fits and functions, with most shooters being able to find one that suits them and their needs well. All of the MOE grips are drop in upgrades to the basic AR pistol grip. Durability, ergonomics, and texturing are all improved. Most importantly, the different versions offer slightly different fits for weapon types and grip preferences.
These grips are made from reinforced polymer, and are as durable (or more) as any grip available. Each product is dimensionally consistent enough that fit has never been an issue beyond having to tap the grip into place with a rubber mallet in some cases. Each grip is available in either four or five colors (black, flat dark earth, gray, OD green, and in some cases pink), and ranges from $19.95 to $24.95.
MOE
The base MOE grip is a medium sized grip that will fit a large range of hand sizes and shooting styles. The 25 degree grip angle will also work well with most shooters, and the texturing is sufficient to help with a solid and slip free grip on the weapon. Like most of the MOE line of grips, it has a beaver tail that improves ergonomics nicely. Total weight is 2.8 ounces (including the mounting hardware and grip cap). It measures 4″ high and 1.2″ thick at its widest point. The grip comes with a grip cap that covers the storage well, but it may be replaced with any one of the Storage Cores, making for a handy place to keep extra batteries (2 AAs/AAAs or 2 CR123As), extra bolt and firing pin, or an oil bottle. The MOE grip sells for $19.95, and is available in five different colors.
MOE+
The MOE+ is effectively the same as the MOE, except with a rubber overmold covering the reinforced polymer. This provides a comfortable grip with excellent control in a wide variety of conditions. It is somewhat heavier than the MOE at 3.4 ounces, but is otherwise very similar. MSRP is $23.95 and it comes in four colors.
MOE-K
The MOE-K is a slim grip with a more vertical angle (20 degrees) for use with short length of pull firearms. With the trigger hand closer to the body, the steeper angle of the grip allows for greater control and comfort. It is the only member in the MOE grip line that does not have a backstrap, which helps keep the grip slim. The grip is 1.0″ wide and 3.8″ tall, weighing 2.4 ounces. For shooters with small hands, or for firearms with particularly short lengths of pull, the MOE-K can help to improve grip and ergonomics greatly. Due to the slim design, the MOE-K will not accept Storage Cores, and does not come with a grip cap. MSRP $19.95, four colors.
MOE-K2
The MOE-K2 offers a more vertical grip (17 degrees) with the full size of the MOE. Like the MOE-K, it is designed for use with short length of pull firearms. This design incorporates a unique notch at the base of the backstrap that is supposed to help to align the hand. for better trigger finger placement. This grip works well for shooters that like to have their primary hand closer to their body, but need a more substantial grip than the MOE-K. It weighs 2.9 ounces, is 4.1″ high, and 1.2″ wide. MSRP $20.95, five colors.
MOE-K2+
The MOE-K2+ is the rubberized version of the MOE-K2. It is functionally the same, but with a weight of 3.1 ounces and an MSRP of $24.95. Four colors are available.
MOE-SL
The MOE-SL has similar dimensions to the MOE-K2 (17 degrees), but with a slimmer profile. Like the MOE-K, it cannot be used with the Storage Cores. It is 4.0″ high, 1.1″ wide, and weighs 2.8 ounces. MSRP $20.95, five colors.
It is worth noting that there are two versions of MOE grips available, which Magpul calls “type 1” and “type 2”. While functionally identical, the backstrap of the two versions are designed to fit lower receivers from different manufacturers. According to the Magpul Website, the type 1 grips fit all ar15/m4 receivers, while the type 2 grips have a taller backstrap that fits some large frame receivers better (Armalite Ar-10A/B/T, DPMS LR308, KAC SR25, LaRue OBR, LMT .308 MWS, Palmetto PA10, and Smith & Wesson M&P10). They go on to say that the type 1 grips will generally fit large frame receivers, but that they may leave a gap between the backstrap and the receiver that is purely aesthetic and will not have any affect on function.
For those with larger hands, or who prefer a larger grip for whatever reason, check out the Magpul MIAD. It is similar to the MOE series, but has an interchangeable backstrap and removable finger notch, as well as being compatible with the same grip cores as the MOE grips.