Complete guide: Elite Aluminum Adjustable Cartridge Grip-FLEX 25mm - Black
This grip adapter bridges modern cartridges and conventional tattoo machines — coil or traditional rotaries that use a tube and backstem. Essentially, it allows you to work with universal cartridges without buying a new pen-style machine. It is made of CNC-machined 7075-T6 aluminum, has a 25 mm diameter for a comfortable standard grip, and a flex system that absorbs motor vibrations. It is aimed at artists who want to upgrade their existing equipment while keeping the classic machines they already use.
How to use
- Sterilize the grip in an autoclave before first use and after each client — it is reusable equipment, not disposable.
- Choose one of the two included drive bars, suitable for your machine.
- Mount the adapter on the machine through the 3 mm central bore, compatible with drive bar style machines, via the tube/backstem system. No machine modifications are required.
- Connect the drive bar to the machine's armature (needle).
- Insert the cartridge into the front end of the grip.
- Adjust the needle depth within the available 4 mm range, depending on technique (lining or shading).
- Start the machine at low speed and check that the needle extends and retracts smoothly and centered before working on skin.
- After use, remove the cartridge and discard it (it is disposable), clean the grip and sterilize it again in the autoclave. Do not clean it ultrasonically.
Tips from us
- Keep one adapter on each machine — for example one on the liner and one on the shader — so you don't have to move and readjust between uses.
- The black version helps with visual organization in the studio, but functionally it is identical to the blue version.
- Adjust the needle depth (4 mm range) according to technique and the type of cartridge used.
- Always check that the chosen drive bar matches the stroke of your machine.
- The adapter is completely reversible — you can return to the traditional setup at any time without leaving marks on the machine.
Warning: The grip is reusable equipment that comes into the working area, so it must be sterilized in an autoclave before first use and after each client. Do not clean it ultrasonically — the manufacturer explicitly prohibits this. The cartridges inserted into the grip are disposable: they are used for a single client and discarded immediately after use. Never reuse a cartridge and never work with a non-sterilized grip.
Frequently asked questions
Does the adapter work with my machine?▾
It is designed for conventional machines — coil and traditional rotaries that use a standard tube and backstem, with a 3 mm central bore in drive bar style. If you have a modern pen-style machine that natively accepts cartridges, you do not need this adapter. First check if your machine uses a standard tube/backstem or already has an integrated cartridge system.
What cartridges can I use with it?▾
It is compatible with all universal needle cartridges — for example Kwadron, Cheyenne, Big Wasp, Peak or Bishop. The cartridge is inserted into the front end of the grip.
How do I correctly clean and sterilize it?▾
The grip is autoclavable, so it is sterilized in an autoclave between clients, at standard sterilization temperature. Very important: do not clean it ultrasonically, as the manufacturer explicitly prohibits this. The used cartridge is not sterilized — it is discarded after each client.
Does the black finish discolor in the autoclave?▾
No. The finish is achieved through anodizing, with the pigment integrated into the aluminum oxide layer, not through surface painting. Therefore it withstands repeated autoclave cycles without peeling or changing color.
What is the difference between the black and blue versions?▾
Only the color of the finish. Both are made from the same anodized aluminum, have the same flex mechanism, same dimensions, and same compatibility. The choice is purely aesthetic and for equipment organization.
Do I need to modify the machine to install it?▾
No. Installation requires no modification to the machine and is completely reversible — you can return to the traditional setup at any time.
Product description
Elite Aluminum Adjustable Cartridge Grip-FLEX 25mm Machined from a solid rod of 7075 T6 Aircraft Aluminum by CNC; Mirror Polished , Clear Anodized for durability; Compatible with all needles cartridges;3mm Center bore is compatible with all build in drive-bar style machines. Comes with 2 needle drive bars. Needle depth adjustable range: 4mm Autoclavable NOTES: Do not Ultra Sonic wash.
The Elite flex cartridge adapter grip 25mm in black is the classic version of the grip-adapter that enables using standard cartridges on conventional tattoo machines. Functionally identical to the blue variant, differing only in finish color — black is the most popular choice in tattoo studios due to its professional, discreet, and timeless appearance. The Elite flex system converts traditional coil and rotary machines into cartridge-compatible machines, providing access to the entire range of universal cartridges (Kwadron, Cheyenne, Big Wasp, Peak, Bishop) without investing in a new pen-style machine. The 25mm diameter ensures the standard comfortable hold, while black anodized aluminum provides durability, corrosion resistance, and full autoclavability. The flex mechanism absorbs motor vibrations, transmitting a smooth, controlled stroke to the cartridge. The black anodized finish is achieved through anodizing with pigment integrated into the oxide layer, not through painting, meaning it does not peel, flake, or degrade during autoclaving. Recommended for artists who want to modernize existing equipment with minimal investment, keeping the quality traditional machines they have mastered. Ideal as a transition solution to the cartridge system or as a permanent setup for artists who prefer the feel of classic machines but want the hygienic benefits of cartridges. Recommended for artists who value their classic machines but want access to modern cartridges. Installation requires no machine modifications — fully reversible, you can return to traditional setup at any time. A smart investment that extends the lifespan of existing equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
