Why 4WD Grab Handles Matter More Than Most People Think
Most people don't think about grab handles until they're bouncing around on a rough track.
Passengers reach for them on:
- Corrugations
- Rocky climbs
- River crossings
- Steep descents
- Beach driving
- Everyday potholes
A good grab handle provides confidence, comfort and support whenever the vehicle moves unexpectedly.
It's one of the few accessories you'll use on almost every trip.
What Are 4WD Grab Handles?
Grab handles are interior handles designed to help occupants steady themselves while entering, exiting or travelling in a vehicle.
Most factory vehicles include basic plastic grab handles fitted above the doors or on the A pillars.
Aftermarket grab handles replace these with stronger, more comfortable alternatives.
Why Upgrade Factory Grab Handles?
Factory handles do their job, but they're built to suit mass production.
Many owners upgrade because they want:
- Better comfort
- Improved grip
- Stronger materials
- A custom interior
- Better durability
- Colours that match their build
Factory Plastic vs Paracord Grab Handles
| Factory Plastic | Krawlergrips Paracord |
|---|---|
| Hard plastic | Soft braided grip |
| Basic colours | Large range of colours |
| Can become brittle with age | Durable nylon braid |
| Standard appearance | Custom interior styling |
| Mass produced | Hand braided in Brisbane |
| Limited personalisation | Made to order |
Why We Choose Type III 550 Paracord
Every Krawlergrips handle is braided using quality Type III commercial 550 nylon paracord.
Why?
Because it offers an excellent balance of:
- Strength
- Comfort
- Durability
- Flexibility
- Colour choice
- Long-term value
Military spec paracord costs significantly more while providing little practical benefit for this application.
How Strong Is 550 Paracord?
The "550" refers to the minimum breaking strength of the cord itself.
Specifications include:
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Material | 100% Nylon |
| Diameter | 4 mm |
| Construction | 7 Inner Strands |
| Breaking Strength | 550 lb (250 kg) |
| UV Resistant | Yes |
| Mildew Resistant | Yes |
While grab handles are not recovery equipment, using quality materials provides durability for everyday use.
How to Measure Your Grab Handles
Before ordering, measure the distance between the centre of one mounting bolt and the centre of the other.
Then allow enough clearance for your hand.
As a general guide:
- Measure centre to centre.
- Add approximately 3 to 5 cm for comfortable hand clearance.
- Check your vehicle's mounting style before ordering.
Taking a minute to measure helps ensure the right fit the first time.
Common Mounting Types
Not every vehicle uses the same mounting system.
Common types include:
Screw Mounted
The most common setup.
These attach using factory bolts.
Clip Mounted
Some vehicles use clip in handles instead of screws.
These usually require different hardware or are not directly compatible with standard replacement grab handles.
Always check your vehicle before ordering.
Choosing the Right Colours
Your grab handles are one of the easiest ways to personalise your interior.
Popular combinations include:
- Black on Black
- Black and Grey
- Black and Red
- Black and Blue
- Black and Orange
- Teal and Black
- Pink and Grey
Many customers match:
- Seat stitching
- Dashboard accents
- Exterior paint
- Recovery gear
- Camping setup
Why Australian Made Matters
Every Krawlergrips handle is braided by hand in Brisbane.
We don't import finished products and add our logo.
Each order is made individually using quality materials before being packed and shipped from Australia.
Supporting Australian manufacturing helps keep local skills, jobs and craftsmanship alive.
Caring for Your Grab Handles
Keeping your grab handles looking their best is simple.
Clean with:
- Mild soap
- Soft brush
- Warm water
Avoid:
- Bleach
- Harsh chemicals
- Pressure washers
- High heat
- Clothes dryers
Allow them to air dry naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are paracord grab handles easy to install?
Most screw mounted models install using basic hand tools and factory mounting points. Clips will have to be modified
Are they comfortable?
Yes. The braided surface provides a secure, comfortable grip on rough tracks.
Will they fade?
Quality nylon paracord is UV resistant, although all coloured materials will gradually fade after years of exposure to Australian sunlight.
Can I wash them?
Yes. Mild soap and water are all that's needed.
Are they made in Australia?
Yes. Every Krawlergrips grab handle is hand braided in Brisbane, Queensland.
Can I choose my own colours?
Yes. You can select from a wide range of colour combinations to suit your vehicle.
Why Thousands of Australian 4WD Owners Choose Krawlergrips
Since 2021, Krawlergrips has focused on one thing.
Building quality handcrafted grab handles for Australian 4WD owners.
Every handle is:
- Hand braided.
- Made to order.
- Built using quality Type III 550 nylon paracord.
- Designed by a fellow 4WD enthusiast.
- Made in Brisbane.
- Available in a wide range of colours.
We're proud to help people personalise their vehicles with products built to last.
Ready to Upgrade Your 4WD?
A quality set of grab handles is one of the simplest ways to improve the comfort, look and feel of your vehicle.
Browse the Krawlergrips range and find the perfect colour combination for your next adventure.