by Matt Konkle
Managing Editor
They are not big. Not very flashy, either. They won’t help recover your vehicle, or anyone else's either, following a trail mishap. Nor will they turn heads like some new alloy wheel or rugged modular bumper.
And yet, they could very well be one of the bigger unsung hero products when attached to your Jeep.
The grab handle.
See, a Jeep with its larger wheelbase can be somewhat tricky to enter and exit versus a standard car — especially for those who have also added larger tires and suspension lifts, and who often have children or elderly passengers along for the ride.
Even more challenging is when those lifted Jeeps head off-road, where uneven trail terrain can make it especially tricky for vehicle access.
So employing one (or more) of these handles — whether metal, nylon or paracord — is the perfect way to ensure easy and safe access to your vehicle.
Now, for anyone driving a 2018 or newer Wrangler JL model, this problem is somewhat mitigated by integrated handles into the A and B pillars, providing a secure latch-on spot. However, there are also plenty of other options as well in the grab handle family to assist with front and rear entry. And anyone with an older Jeep, without any factory-provided handles, can certainly see a benefit from adding these products as well.
Why are Jeep Grab Handles Important?
We covered a few of those reasons already, but the biggest one is simply providing additional safety and stability when accessing the vehicle, especially in off-road conditions or for lifted Jeeps where getting in and out can be challenging.
Why risk losing your balance accessing or leaving the Jeep when there is a time-proven, inexpensive way to accomplish that task?
Additionally, interior handles offer added comfort and ease for passengers during bumpy road or trail rides, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.
Finally, while safety is the primary reason to install grab handles, these products also allow some personalization thanks to different material types and colors.
What Are Some Types of Jeep Grab Handles
Perhaps the most popular version, and easiest to install, are handles that mount right to the vehicle’s Sport Bar. They don’t require any tools, or make you find exactly where to bolt. Nope, these utilize hook and loop straps that simply wrap around the cage and support the nylon handle. Some even come with a foam or rubberized pad for an extra bit of comfort when using.
Those durable hook and loop straps do support a fair amount of weight. However, we do not advocate using the handle exclusively to swing yourself into place. Instead, use it in combination with the door sills, placing your feet on the sill and pulling up with the strap. Additionally, check the attachment from time to time to make sure it hasn't loosened up over time.
Another popular grab handle design is the Bolt-In Style. Instead of strapping around the sport bar, these utilize factory-provided mounting locations — usually in the upper center of the front or rear door opening, or just inside the driver and passenger A pillars.
A small torx bit can remove bolts from each mounting location, which then can be threaded through grommets on the handles before reinstalling on the Jeep. Paracord material handles have proven extremely handy in this style, with the ultra-durable paracord able to withstand tearing or ripping over a long period of time.
Metal grab handles can be placed right inside the front driver and passenger door and offer solid security for vehicle access, as well as something to latch onto when road or trail conditions run a little rough.
Besides offering a convenient way to safely enter and exit a Jeep, some grab handle designs can also attach around or behind the front seat headrests. Specifically designed for rear passengers, these handles make it easier to climb into the back of a Jeep, while also giving these passengers a stability point when things get somewhat bumpy.
Materials and Durability
Jeep grab handles are made from various materials, each offering different benefits:
Metal: Offers a durable, solid point to hold when entering or exiting the vehicle, as well as a convenient resting spot for your left hand during certain driving conditions. These metal handles include hardware and bolt to existing factory mounting locations with no drilling.
Nylon Straps: These handles have been around for years and are a time-proven, cost-effective way to provide stability when you need a little help for vehicle access. Plus, they quickly install with hook and loop straps.
Paracord: Known for its strength and versatility, paracord is an excellent material for this kind of job description. Additionally, these handles re-use factory torx bolts in provided mounting locations, so they cinch up tight for secure, safe operation on the road or trail.
Recommended Reading:
How To Enjoy Jeep Winter Driving
