Complete guide: AptoGrip Stainless steel 25mm
This is a professional stainless steel grip (handle), with a diameter of 25 mm, from the AptoGrip range by manufacturer Ink Machines, made in Sweden. It is intended for tattoo artists who work with pen-style or rotary machines with standard backstems and want a stable, ergonomic, and fully sanitizable grip. The 4 mm precision adjustment of needle protrusion and the reference marks on the tube allow you to quickly set the same length every time. Being stainless steel, it can be cleaned with ultrasound and repeatedly sterilized in an autoclave.
How to use
- Sterilize the grip in an autoclave (cycle B, steam at 134°C) before first use and mandatory between clients.
- Insert a standard 8 mm tip into the front tube of the grip; single-use plastic tips are recommended.
- Mount the cartridge/needle and attach the grip to the tattoo machine via the 8 mm backstem.
- Adjust needle protrusion by turning the adjustment nut — you have a 4 mm adjustment range, easily accessible during work.
- Use the reference marks on the tube to set the same needle length for every setup.
- Tighten the tip with the included hex key.
- Before starting, check that the grip does not pivot relative to the machine — the construction holds it firmly for a secure adjustment.
- After the session, discard the single-use tip, clean the grip (including with ultrasound), and re-sterilize it for the next client.
Tips from us
- Use single-use plastic tips for each client — more hygienic and faster to change setups.
- Take advantage of the reference marks on the tube to get exactly the same needle protrusion from session to session — consistency in linework and shading.
- The solid weight of stainless steel helps with stability during shading and color packing; it's a plus for large area work.
- The 25 mm diameter offers a comfortable grip for long sessions; if you prefer something thinner for fine details, consider a smaller diameter grip.
- Ultrasound cleaning is allowed and is a good step before autoclaving to loosen residues inside the tube.
- Periodically check the tightness of the adjustment nut during long sessions to keep needle protrusion constant.
Warning: Hygiene is essential: sterilize the grip in an autoclave (cycle B, steam at 134°C) before first use and between each client, and use plastic tips only once. Do NOT use hot air autoclaves and do NOT use strongly alkaline or acidic cleaning agents (very high or low pH) — these damage the handle and void the warranty. Always handle sterilized instruments with clean gloves.
Frequently asked questions
What tips is it compatible with?▾
It fits standard 8 mm tips. The manufacturer recommends single-use plastic tips, which should be changed for each client. The tube (backstem) has an OD of 8 mm and an ID of 6.5 mm, with a large bore, and can accommodate up to 0.35 17Mag needles.
Does it fit my tattoo machine?▾
Yes, it is compatible with most tattoo machines that use a standard 8 mm backstem (pen-style and rotary machines). If you're not sure, check your machine's backstem diameter (8 mm) and the type of tips you use.
How do I clean and sterilize it correctly?▾
You can clean the grip with ultrasound, then sterilize it in a steam autoclave (cycle B) at 134°C — it is autoclavable. Very important: do not use hot air autoclaves and avoid strongly acidic or alkaline solutions, as they damage the handle and void the warranty.
What does the package contain?▾
The package includes one AptoGrip Stainless Steel handle, 25 mm diameter, and one hex key for tightening the tip.
Why choose the stainless steel version over the aluminum one?▾
The stainless steel version is heavier, offering a more stable feel in the hand — appreciated by many artists for shading and large area work. Aluminum is lighter, helpful if you want to reduce hand fatigue during very long sessions. Both have the same 25 mm diameter and the same adjustment system.
What warranty does it have?▾
The product has a 1-year warranty. Note that the warranty is voided if you use prohibited cleaning or sterilization methods (hot air autoclave or strongly acidic/alkaline agents).
Product description
Apto Grip Stainless steel 25mm 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 Stainless 25mm 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: 25mm Tube (Backstem): OD 8mm ID 6.5mm Adjustment: 4mm Autoclavable 135 C: Yes*Ultrasonic: Yes*Finish: Polished Weight Stainless 25mm: 160 grams Warranty: 1 year
The Apto Grip Inox 25mm is a premium grip made from 316L surgical stainless steel with the standard comfort diameter of 25mm, designed for professional artists who want the perfect combination of stability, ergonomics, and absolute hygiene. The 25mm diameter provides the most comfortable hold for extended shading, color packing, and large-area work sessions, distributing pressure evenly across the entire palm circumference. 316L steel provides the ideal weight for stable control — heavy enough to dampen micro-tremors in the hand, yet light enough to avoid premature fatigue. The satin stainless finish provides consistent grip with nitrile or latex gloves, maintaining its properties regardless of moisture. Universal compatibility with all pen-style and rotary machines: Cheyenne Sol Nova, FK Irons Spektra Xion, Bishop Fantom, InkMachines Stingray, Dragonhawk Mast, EZ P2S, and any other machine with standard backstem. CNC monobloc construction from solid 316L stainless steel bar completely eliminates joints, welds, and seams — zero bacterial accumulation zones. Infinitely autoclavable at 134C without any form of degradation: no discoloration, warping, corrosion, or finish loss. Compared to Apto Grip Aluminum 25mm, the stainless steel variant offers superior stability due to greater weight, preferred by realism and Japanese artists. Versus titanium grips, 316L stainless steel delivers similar performance at a fraction of the price. Investing in an Apto Grip Inox grip is for life — practically unlimited durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
