by Matt Konkle
Managing Editor
Some Jeep upgrades turn heads with subtle detail. Others declare themselves the second you pull into the parking lot at your next Jeep event. And, well, Tactik’s new Shark Grille lineup is definitely something that lands firmly in the latter camp, neatly transforming your Wrangler or Gladiator’s front end into something bold and unmistakably aggressive.
Tactik offers these grilles in five different styles, and no matter which you choose — Bull Shark, Tiger Shark, Great White Shark, Goblin Shark, or Reef Shark — all are molded from durable ABS plastic that can take on both street miles and gritty trail dust.
These things aren’t just for newer Jeeps either, as they include versions for older Wrangler JK and TJ models, as well as the more recent JL and Gladiator JT versions. This way, there are plenty of editions that can receive a custom front look without complicated installs or permanent changes.
The lineup also includes versions with integrated LED running lights, adding not just style but functional visibility.
No matter which one you choose, all Tactik Shark Grilles come in a black finish for an instant contrast look, but those desiring a seamless custom finish can easily have them paint-matched to their Jeep. That flexibility makes the Shark series just as appealing for daily drivers as it is for weekend off-road builds.
Additionally, Shark Grilles are true bolt-on replacements, requiring no modifications or any drilling into the vehicle. They can be truly installed right on the driveway or garage in about 15 minutes: pop the hood, remove the factory clips and foam isolators, and move the stock weatherstripping to start. Some versions do require attaching outer ‘wings’ before mounting, but it’s a straightforward process that doesn’t call for special tools or extra hands.
Then, snap the grille into place, secure it with the original clips and you’ve suddenly gained a whole new personality for your Jeep. It’s the kind of installation that’s easy enough for first-time DIYers yet satisfying for seasoned Jeepers who want fast results.
We recently installed the Goblin Shark grille on one of our Wrangler JL Willys, and included the LED amber light market option, giving this thing a distinguishing look that is almost unmatched in the aftermarket realm.
Now, we love this grille for the look, but its functionality also involves those lights for better nighttime safety as well as wider slots for better air flow into the engine bay.
Once installed, the difference was immediate and striking. The sharp lines, angular slats, ‘snarl’ design and those amber lights certainly gives the Jeep a more aggressive, trail-ready stance. On the road, we noticed plenty of people turning their heads when they saw how different this grille is from the factory.
And on the trail during a recent photo shoot at Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area, in Coal Township, Pennsylvania, it first drew attention in the staging lot, and then from numerous trail groups we passed during our two days at the park.
But aside from optics, what makes the entire Shark lineup shine is that combination of style and practicality. The ABS construction shrugs off mud and gravel (we had plenty of that at AOAA in our travels), the LED-equipped options boost visibility and the entire design feels OEM-quality rather than some flimsy add-on.
Yup, the Tactic Shark Grilles are an affordable, high-impact way to separate your Jeep from the crowd. With multiple style options, LED variants, and paint-match potential, there’s a grille here to suit every Jeep personality. Add in the quick, no-mod install, and it’s one of the simplest transformations you can make for your Wrangler or Gladiator.
Explore More Jeep Content:
