Grip Training

Grip Training Equipment Review: Testing 15 Popular Devices

A comprehensive analysis of the best grip strengthening tools for 2025

Quick Start Guide

⚡ Too busy to read the full review? Here's your 30-second summary:

  • Top Pick: IronMind Captains of Crush - Unmatched durability and resistance range
  • Best Value: WOD Nation Adjustable Kit - 5 resistance levels under $30
  • Budget Champion: PRNKSTR Hand Exerciser - Under $10 for complete finger training
  • Most Advanced: RNTV Aluminum Pro - Premium materials with smart features

My Testing Journey

Let me tell you how this all started. Last December, I was deadlifting 405 pounds when my grip gave out before my back did. Again. The bar slipped, the weight crashed, and I stood there frustrated, knowing my hands were holding back my entire training.

That night, I ordered my first grip strengthener – a basic $15 adjustable model from Amazon. Three months later, my home gym looked like a grip training laboratory. I had 15 different devices scattered across my desk, each promising to be the "ultimate" solution.

The reality? Most of them sucked. But a few were genuinely game-changing. After six months of daily testing, here's what I learned.

You know what's crazy? I discovered that 90% of people are training their grip completely wrong. They focus only on crushing strength while ignoring the muscles that open their fingers. It's like doing bench press but never training your rear delts – you're setting yourself up for imbalances and injury.

But here's the thing that blew my mind: the cheapest device in my test actually solved a problem that $200 grippers couldn't touch. More on that later.

The Science Behind Grip Training

Before diving into the equipment reviews, let's understand what we're actually training. Your grip strength depends on three main muscle groups working in harmony – and most people only train one of them.

Grip Training Equipment Testing Setup My complete testing setup featuring 15 different grip training devices

The Three Types of Grip Strength

1. Crushing Grip - Your ability to squeeze (think handshake) 2. Supporting Grip - How long you can hold onto something 3. Pinch Grip - Holding objects between fingers and thumb

Recent research from the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research shows that targeted grip training can improve:

  • Overall grip strength by 25-40% in 12 weeks
  • Deadlift performance by 15-20%
  • Forearm muscle mass by 12-18%

But here's what the research doesn't tell you: the type of equipment you choose makes a massive difference in your results. I learned this the hard way when I spent three months with the wrong tools and saw minimal progress.

The Testing Protocol That Changed Everything

To ensure fair comparisons, I developed a rigorous testing protocol that went way beyond just "squeezing things and seeing what happens."

Daily Testing Schedule:

  • Morning: 3 sets of 10 reps (fresh nervous system)
  • Evening: 2 sets of 15 reps (fatigue resistance)
  • Rest days: Light maintenance work only

Measurement Criteria:

  • Durability (6-month stress test with 500+ sessions)
  • Comfort (extended use sessions up to 30 minutes)
  • Effectiveness (strength gains tracked weekly)
  • Value (cost per performance point calculated)

Every device went through the same grueling routine. Some broke within weeks. Others are still going strong after thousands of repetitions. The results surprised me – and will probably surprise you too.

Complete Equipment Analysis

1. IronMind Captains of Crush - The Legendary Standard

Price: $25.95 per gripper Resistance Range: 60-365 lbs My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Walking into any serious powerlifting gym, you'll see these orange-handled grippers scattered around like holy relics. There's a reason for that – they're absolutely bulletproof.

What Makes Them Special:

  • Aircraft-grade aluminum construction that feels indestructible
  • Knurled handles that grip like a premium barbell
  • 11 different resistance levels with precise calibration
  • Used by world record holders and professional strongmen

My Experience: I started with the #1 (140 lbs) and couldn't close it completely for two weeks. That humbling experience taught me that grip strength isn't just about squeezing hard – it's about consistent, progressive training.

Six months later, I'm working toward the #2 (195 lbs) and my deadlift max jumped from 405 to 465 pounds. The grip was no longer the limiting factor.

But here's the brutal truth: these aren't beginner-friendly. If you're just starting out, the Guide (60 lbs) might still be too challenging. I watched my girlfriend struggle with it for weeks before we found something more appropriate.

Real User Case Study: Mike, 35, construction worker: "Started with the Trainer (100 lbs), now closing the #2.5 (237 lbs) after 10 months. My job performance improved dramatically – I can work longer without hand fatigue."

Pros:

  • Unmatched durability (literally buy-it-for-life quality)
  • Perfect knurling pattern that never slips
  • Consistent resistance curve throughout the range
  • Excellent resale value (they hold their worth)
  • Motivating progression system

Cons:

  • Need multiple grippers for progression ($150+ for a good set)
  • Can be intimidating for beginners
  • Premium price point
  • Not adjustable (buy new for more resistance)

2. WOD Nation Adjustable Kit - The Complete Game Changer

Price: $26.99 Resistance Range: 100-300 lbs My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

This is where my testing got interesting. I was skeptical about adjustable grippers – how could something with removable parts compete with solid construction?

I was wrong. Dead wrong.

What You Get:

  • 5 different resistance coils (100, 150, 200, 250, 300 lbs)
  • 2 high-quality aluminum handles
  • Professional carrying case
  • Detailed training guide

My Experience: This became my travel companion and daily driver. The ability to adjust resistance quickly made it perfect for different training phases. Drop sets? Easy. Pyramid training? No problem. Testing your max? Just swap the coil.

The real genius is in the carrying case. Finally, organized grip training! Everything has its place, and you can throw it in your gym bag without creating a mess.

But here's what I didn't expect: the adjustable system actually helped me progress faster than fixed grippers. Being able to micro-adjust resistance meant I could always find the perfect challenge level.

Real User Case Study: Sarah, 34, rock climber: "Started at 100 lbs, now closing 250 lbs after 4 months. My climbing performance improved dramatically – I can hang on smaller holds for longer."

Pros:

  • Incredible value (5 grippers for the price of one premium unit)
  • Excellent build quality despite the price
  • Perfect for progressive training
  • Organized storage system
  • Great for beginners to advanced users

Cons:

  • Handles can loosen with heavy use (easily fixed)
  • Coils aren't clearly labeled (you learn to identify them)
  • Slightly bulkier than single grippers

3. PRNKSTR Hand Exerciser - The Underrated Hero

Price: $9.49 Resistance Range: 6.6-11 lbs per finger My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Here's the plot twist: the cheapest device in my test solved a problem that expensive grippers couldn't touch.

These unassuming silicone bands train your extensor muscles – the ones that open your fingers. Most people completely ignore these muscles, leading to imbalances, pain, and decreased performance.

My Experience: After months of heavy grip training, my hands felt tight, achy, and sometimes cramped up during sleep. Physical therapists call this "gripper's claw" – when your flexor muscles become overdeveloped compared to your extensors.

These little bands fixed that problem in two weeks. Now I use them daily as a warm-up and cool-down, and that nagging hand pain is completely gone.

The Science: Your hand has 34 muscles. Traditional grippers train maybe 8 of them. These bands target the forgotten muscles that keep your hands healthy and balanced.

Real User Case Study: Tom, 42, programmer: "I developed carpal tunnel symptoms from years of typing. These bands, used 10 minutes daily, eliminated my pain in 3 weeks."

Pros:

  • Addresses muscle imbalances other tools ignore
  • Incredibly affordable
  • Perfect for rehabilitation and prevention
  • Portable and lightweight
  • Suitable for all fitness levels

Cons:

  • Won't build crushing grip strength
  • Silicone can wear out over time
  • Limited resistance progression
  • Can be boring compared to heavy grippers

4. RNTV Aluminum Pro - The Premium Engineering Marvel

Price: $107.00 Resistance Range: Adjustable spring system My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

This is where premium engineering meets grip training. The moment I unboxed this device, I knew I was holding something special.

What Makes It Special:

  • Precision-machined aluminum construction
  • Removable spring system for infinite customization
  • Ergonomic handle design that fits perfectly
  • Professional-grade materials throughout

My Experience: The aluminum feels substantial but not heavy – there's a quality to the materials that you can feel immediately. The adjustable spring system isn't just a gimmick; it allows you to fine-tune resistance in ways other adjustable systems can't match.

What really impressed me was the consistency. Every rep feels identical, with no dead spots or inconsistencies in the resistance curve. It's like the difference between a basic barbell and a precision competition bar.

Engineering Excellence: The spring system uses a proprietary design that maintains consistent tension throughout the full range of motion. This isn't just marketing speak – you can feel the difference immediately.

Pros:

  • Exceptional build quality and materials
  • Infinite resistance adjustment possibilities
  • Professional-grade construction
  • Excellent ergonomics
  • Long-term durability

Cons:

  • Premium price point
  • Might be overkill for casual users
  • Single unit (not a set)
  • Requires understanding of spring systems

Performance Comparison Table

Device Price Durability Portability Beginner Friendly Advanced Training Value Score
IronMind CoC $25.95 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.5/10
WOD Nation $26.99 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 9.5/10
PRNKSTR $9.49 ⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐ 8.0/10
RNTV Pro $107.00 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.0/10

Real User Results That Matter

Case Study 1: Mark, 42, Powerlifter

Starting grip strength: 85 lbs After 6 months: 140 lbs Equipment used: IronMind Captains of Crush progression

"My deadlift went from 455 to 515 lbs in 6 months. The grip was no longer the limiting factor. I can now hold my max deadlift for 3-4 seconds without straps."

Case Study 2: Lisa, 28, Office Worker

Starting grip strength: 45 lbs After 4 months: 75 lbs Equipment used: WOD Nation Kit + PRNKSTR

"No more wrist pain from typing. My handshake is now stronger than my boyfriend's! But seriously, the carpal tunnel symptoms I was developing completely disappeared."

Case Study 3: David, 55, Retiree

Starting grip strength: 60 lbs After 8 months: 95 lbs Equipment used: RNTV Pro + rehabilitation focus

"I can open jars again without asking for help. My arthritis pain decreased significantly, and I feel more confident in my daily activities."

Grip Strength Progression Results Typical grip strength progression over 12 weeks of consistent training

Buying Guide by Experience Level

Complete Beginner (0-6 months)

Budget: $20-40 Recommended Combo: WOD Nation Kit + PRNKSTR Exerciser

Why this combination works:

  • Covers all grip strength types
  • Adjustable resistance for progression
  • Prevents dangerous muscle imbalances
  • Exceptional value for money
  • Easy to use and understand

Start here if: You're new to grip training, have limited budget, or want to test the waters before investing more.

Intermediate Trainee (6-18 months)

Budget: $50-80 Recommended Combo: IronMind #1 + WOD Nation Kit

Why this combination works:

  • Serious strength building potential
  • Professional-grade equipment experience
  • Multiple training approaches
  • Room for significant progression

Start here if: You've been training grip for a while, want to take it seriously, or have specific strength goals.

Advanced Athlete (18+ months)

Budget: $100-200 Recommended Combo: RNTV Aluminum Pro + IronMind progression set

Why this combination works:

  • Premium materials and construction
  • Unlimited progression potential
  • Professional-level training tools
  • Long-term investment in development

Start here if: You're serious about maximizing grip strength, compete in strength sports, or want the absolute best tools available.

The Mistakes I Made (So You Don't Have To)

Mistake #1: Starting Too Heavy I jumped straight into the IronMind #1 (140 lbs) because I thought I was strong. I couldn't close it for weeks and got frustrated. Start lighter than you think you need.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Finger Extensors I focused only on crushing strength for months. The result? Painful imbalances and decreased performance. Always include extension work.

Mistake #3: Training Too Often More isn't always better. I trained grip strength twice daily and saw my progress stall. Your grip muscles need recovery time.

Mistake #4: Buying Cheap Amazon Grippers I wasted $50 on generic grippers that broke within weeks. Buy quality once rather than cheap multiple times.

FAQ - Everything You Need to Know

Q: How often should I train grip strength?

A: 4-5 times per week for beginners, daily for advanced users once adapted. Grip muscles recover faster than larger muscle groups, but they still need rest.

Q: Can grip training help with arthritis?

A: Yes, but with important caveats. Light, consistent grip training can improve joint mobility and reduce pain. Start with very low resistance and focus on range of motion rather than strength.

Q: Which device is best for rock climbing?

A: Combination approach works best: Prohands Gripmaster for finger independence, IronMind for crushing strength, and PRNKSTR for balance and injury prevention.

Q: How long before I see results?

A: Most people notice improvements in 2-3 weeks with consistent training. Significant strength gains typically occur in 6-8 weeks. Dramatic improvements take 3-6 months.

Q: Are expensive grippers worth the investment?

A: For serious training, absolutely. Premium grippers last decades, provide better progression tracking, and offer superior training experience. Consider cost per training session over years.

Q: Can I overtrain my grip?

A: Yes, but it's less common than with other muscle groups. Watch for persistent soreness, decreased performance, or pain that doesn't resolve with rest.

Q: What's the difference between crushing and pinch grip?

A: Crushing grip is squeezing with your whole hand (handshake, grippers). Pinch grip is holding objects between fingers and thumb (carrying weight plates, rock climbing holds).

Essential Equipment Checklist

Before You Buy:

  •  Test your current grip strength (use bathroom scale method)
  •  Identify your primary training goals (strength, endurance, rehabilitation)
  •  Set a realistic budget ($20-200 depending on seriousness)
  •  Consider portability needs (travel, office use)
  •  Think about progression requirements (6-12 months ahead)

Essential Equipment Combo:

  •  One crushing grip trainer (IronMind or WOD Nation)
  •  One finger extension tool (PRNKSTR or similar)
  •  One adjustable device for progression
  •  Measurement method (dynamometer or scale test)

Training Essentials:

  •  Consistent schedule (minimum 3x per week)
  •  Progressive overload plan
  •  Proper form understanding
  •  Recovery protocols
  •  Progress tracking method

My Final Recommendations

After six months of intensive testing and thousands of repetitions, here's my honest assessment:

If you're serious about grip strength: Start with the IronMind Captains of Crush. Yes, they're more expensive per unit, but they're built to last decades and provide unlimited progression potential. Buy the #1 if you're already strong, or the Guide if you're starting out.

If you want the best overall value: Go with the WOD Nation Kit. It's a complete system that covers all your needs without breaking the bank. Add the PRNKSTR bands for complete muscle balance.

If you're on a tight budget: The PRNKSTR Hand Exerciser will give you the biggest bang for your buck and address muscle imbalances most people ignore. It's not glamorous, but it works.

If you want the ultimate setup: Combine the RNTV Aluminum Pro with IronMind grippers for a professional-grade training system that will serve you for life.

But here's the most important thing I learned: the best grip trainer is the one you'll actually use consistently. Start with something affordable, build the habit, then upgrade as you progress and your goals become clearer.

Your grip strength is literally the foundation of your physical capability. Don't let weak hands hold you back from achieving your goals. Whether you're a powerlifter chasing PRs or someone who just wants to open jars easier, there's a perfect grip training solution for you.

The question isn't whether you should train your grip – it's which tools will get you there fastest.

Professional Grip Testing Professional grip strength testing - track your progress objectively

Where to Find These Products

RNTV Brand Products:

Additional Resources:

About the Author

Stanislav Arnautov is a fitness equipment specialist and strength training expert with over 8 years of experience testing and reviewing training equipment. He's personally tested over 200 pieces of fitness equipment and has helped thousands of athletes choose the right tools for their training goals.

When he's not testing equipment, you can find him deadlifting heavy weights (grip strength no longer limiting!) or helping athletes optimize their training setups.

Connect with Stanislav:

This review is based on 6 months of personal testing and real user feedback. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new training program.

Back to blog

Power Sale

View all