Complete guide: AptoGrip Aluminum 22mm
AptoGrip Aluminum 22mm is a professional grip for tattoo machines, from the Ink Machines line, manufactured in Sweden from 7075 aluminum and stainless steel, with a black anodized finish. It is used together with standard 8 mm tips (tubes) and a bar needle, with the needle protrusion adjusted via the nut on the grip. The slim 22 mm diameter makes it ideal for artists who want a precise grip, a lightweight handle, and an autoclavable accessory that is easy to sanitize between clients.
How to use
- Make sure the grip is clean and sterilized before each client, then prepare a standard 8 mm tip (tube) — the manufacturer recommends single-use plastic tips.
- Insert the 8 mm tip into the grip's backstem and pass the needle bar through the grip.
- Mount the grip onto your machine's backstem connection; AptoGrip is designed not to pivot relative to the machine, for a stable hold.
- Adjust the needle protrusion by turning the adjustment nut on the grip — the adjustment range is 4 mm and can be easily accessed during work.
- Use the reference marks on the tube to set the same needle length for each setup.
- Tighten the tip with the included hex key and check that there is no play before starting.
- After the session, disassemble the components, discard the needle and single-use tip, then clean and sterilize the grip.
Tips from us
- Remember the position from the tube's reference marks to quickly achieve the same needle length for each setup.
- Keep the included hex key near the grip — you need it for tightening the tip.
- Use single-use plastic tips, as recommended by the manufacturer, for hygiene and consistency.
- The slim 22 mm diameter provides fine motion control, useful for lines, details, and technical work.
- The aluminum grip is lightweight, which helps reduce hand fatigue during long sessions.
- The grip accepts needles with a diameter of 0.35 mm in configurations up to 17 Magnum; check your needle set against this limit.
Warning: Hygiene and safety: use a single-use needle and tip for each client and never reuse them. The grip is sterilized by steam autoclaving, cycle B, at 134-135°C. DO NOT use hot air autoclaves and DO NOT use strongly alkaline or acidic cleaning agents (very high or very low pH) — they damage the grip and void the warranty (1 year). According to the manufacturer's specifications, the grip is NOT intended for ultrasonic cleaning. Clean residues and sterilize the grip between clients.
Frequently asked questions
What does the package include?▾
One AptoGrip Aluminum 22 mm grip and one hex key for tightening the tip.
What kind of tips does it use?▾
Standard 8 mm tips (tubes); the manufacturer recommends single-use plastic tips. The system uses a bar needle, and the needle protrusion is adjusted via the grip nut, over a 4 mm range.
Does it fit my machine?▾
AptoGrip is designed to fit most tattoo machines that use a backstem connection and standard 8 mm tips (tube OD 8 mm / ID 6.5 mm). Check if your machine uses a standard backstem; proprietary systems may require adaptation.
Can I autoclave it?▾
Yes. The grip is steam autoclavable, cycle B, at 134-135°C. Do not use hot air autoclaves and do not use strongly acidic or alkaline solutions, as they damage the finish and void the warranty.
Can I clean it with ultrasound?▾
According to the manufacturer's specifications, the grip is NOT recommended for ultrasonic cleaning. For sanitization, remove residues and sterilize by steam autoclaving.
Why the 22 mm diameter?▾
A thinner 22 mm diameter provides a finer grip and better motion control, preferred for lines, details, and technical work. If you prefer a thicker grip, choose a larger diameter grip — it's a matter of personal comfort.
Product description
Apto Grip Aluminum 22mm Apto Grip is a high quality grip with precision adjustment for standard needles. Reference marks on the tube and a fixed length position of the tip makes it easy to setup with equal length for every setup. The needle protrusion is done by turning the adjustment nut on the grip that is easily accessible while working. Apto Grip wont twist in relation to the machine to prevent unwilling adjustment and gives a solid feeling. Aluminum Apto Grips are made from 7075 grade " Aircraft quality " Aluminum and Stainless Steels. B-cycle steam autoclavable @ 134deg C. Includes one Apto Grip Aluminum 22mm and one Allen key for tightening the tip.* Do NOT use hot air autoclave and do NOT use alkaline or acid cleaning agents with strong bases (high or low pH). Doing so will damage the grips and warranty will be void. Made In Sweden Apto Grip is patent pending and design protected. Hygienic and ergonomic design 4mm precision adjustment Grip dont pivot in relation to machine (Safe adjustment) Fits standard 8mm tips. (Disposable plastic tips recommended) 8mm tube (Backstem) with large bore Allows up to 0.35 17Mag needles Fits most tattoo machines Manufactured from durable aluminum and stainless steel Steam autoclavable B- cycle @ 134deg CDiameter: 22mm Tube (Backstem): OD 8mm ID 6.5mm Adjustment: 4mm Autoclavable: 135 C: Yes*Ultrasonic: NOFinish: Anodized black Weight Aluminum 22mm: 55 grams Warranty: 1 year
The Apto Grip Aluminum 22mm is a professional anodized aluminum grip designed for use with pen-style and rotary tattoo machines accepting standard cartridges. The 22mm diameter provides a slim, precise hold favored by artists working fine lines, details, and technical pieces requiring maximum movement control. Anodized aluminum ensures a lightweight build (considerably lighter than the stainless steel variant), reducing hand fatigue during extended 5-8 hour sessions. The anodized surface provides a natural anti-slip texture, maintaining grip even when gloves are wet with ink or transfer solution. The Apto Grip system stands out for its universal compatibility — it mounts on any machine with a standard backstem, including Cheyenne Sol Nova, FK Irons Spektra Xion, Bishop Fantom, InkMachines Stingray, and Dragonhawk Mast. Compared to silicone or rubber grips, Apto Grip Aluminum does not absorb pigment, withstands repeated autoclaving without degradation, and disinfects instantly with alcohol-based solutions or Madacide. Versus the stainless steel version, the aluminum variant is approximately 40% lighter, ideal for artists prioritizing maneuverability. Single-piece construction with no joints or seams eliminates bacterial accumulation zones, meeting hygiene standards in professional studios. The anodized finish resists corrosion, scratching, and discoloration over time. Recommended for artists who prefer a slim grip for maximum precision in styles such as fine-line, dotwork, geometric, and lettering.
Frequently Asked Questions
