We have real GraBars. They are metal, really strong, and well made (in the USA). I do recommend them.
We originally used the fabric ones. They were strong enough, but their design and lack of rigidity made them less useful compared to the GraBars that replaced them.
The only thing I don't like about the GraBars design is they do interfere slightly with the visor. You can put the visor down but the handles stop you from swinging the visor all the way forwards. I do wish they bent the bars slightly different for more clearance. But they don't. In the end, it isn't a big deal to me. But it could be to someone else.
That, and their cost, are the only negatives in my opinion. And as to the cost, I am OK with paying more for an American made original. Some people aren't, and would rather buy a Chinese knockoff for less money. To each their own.
While GraBars are definitely a good alternative, yes those fabric (cord) ones can be really strong. I just don't like where your example mounts. Again GraBars have nailed the most preferred location as far as I'm concerned and that's where my front cord ones are also mounted.
If you are a crafty type youtube has many examples of how to weave your own. Just be sure to get the proper strength cord
We use a combination of Synergy metal grab handles and MasterCraft soft grab handles because the wife needs to use two hand to get in our jeeps. The Synergy handles don't interfere with the sun visors which is kinda a big thing here in The-Valley-Of-The-Sun.
I have GraBar knockoffs. I had the fabric style that velcored to the roll bar on my previous Wrangler. I like the GraBars better as far as location. Makes getting in a lot easier and they feel sturdier since they bolt to the A pillar.
I have Grabars as well. Really helps getting in and out of a lifted Jeep. I left my Mopar soft handles on the roll bar just because I like to grab onto something when I have the top off or windows down.
I went with Bartact paracord at the same time I bought their seat covers. About a year later I got GraBars and have not used the Bartact since. My rear seat passengers have stated appreciation for the rear seat GraBars, not for getting in and out but for going around corners, and while off-roading.
I tried some GraBar knock offs.......and after HOURS of trying, they would NOT line up. Struggled for a few days, but got a refund. I then tried the Smittybilt's. They went in in less than 5 min. per side using the same mounting location! No visor interference, sturdy, I'm good with them!
Lesson learned (again) on trying to save a buck..................
I had the paracord ones and didn’t care for them. Recently went to Rough Country steel ones. Solid and they are situated perfectly for the boost up. Instructions are misleading. Struggled with install on one side. Finally figured out what the problem was and the the opposite side went in in 10 mins.
I have the Smitybuilt handles that mount to the a-pillar. Very sturdy. I drilled out one of the holes and mount my Carolina Metal Masters mirrors there when my doors are off.
I tried the paracord handles attached to the roll cage. They're strong, but not firm. They swing when you use them and I'd prefer them to be solid. I switched to Wild Boar. I think they are a Grab bar knockoff, but I can't say anything bad about them. They are absolutely rock solid.
I use Wild Board - they awesome and really easy to install - very heavy duty made. Also, I use GPCA Grab Handles - folding one ( www.gpca.us - they have bunch of cool thing for Jeep )
I have the paracord ones on the roll bar in front and a set that hooks to the back of the head rest mounting rods for the back seat. I have no complaints with them.
Cool thing about the Grab bar type handles, they are 1mm smaller than mountain bike handle bars. Why is this cool? Because you can go into any of your local bike shops and buy comfortable, color matching (or contrasting), lock on specific grips of your choice. Then, drink a beer and once done, cut up the can and use it as a shim to take up the 1mm slack. Looks awesome.
Exactly what I did. I have the Wild Boar model (GraBar knock off) and used red Vans bike handles for mine. I had to trim the grips a bit to make them fit, but it works.
I love my Smittybilt Aluminum grab handles. Having use of my visors was a requirement and it's unbelievable how many handles out there block them. For the rears, I didn't use the spaces they provided because they seemed unnecessary tall and made the handles stick down a good half inch lower, making for more a head knocking hazard. JK_AluminumGrabHandles
I have a Grabar on the passenger side. When I was installing the driver side the weld nut inside the a-pillar came loose so I cannot install one on my side. So I found GPCA carabiner grab handles and also have them on both sides. I actually like them pretty good.
I have the wild boars. The fronts feel bullet proof with my 240lb arse. The rears I can't say. My 11 year old is about 75lbs. I don't know if my boys use the handles when they get in, but I'll keep my on them either way. Thanks for the heads up.
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