Definition
The structural fittings on a helicopter rotor hub that hold the root end of each rotor blade and attach it to the hub. Blade grips transmit centrifugal, lifting, and bending loads between the blade and the hub, and they house the bearings that allow the blade to change pitch (and, depending on rotor design, to flap and lead-lag).
Plain English
The clamps on a helicopter's rotor head that hold each blade in place and let it pivot so its angle can be changed.
Context Anchor
Seen in helicopter rotor system descriptions, preflight inspection guidance, and maintenance discussions.
Derivation
“Grip” means to hold firmly. In this term, the blade grip is the part that physically holds, or grips, the rotor blade at its inner end.
Why Pilots Care
Blade-grip condition directly affects rotor control authority and flight safety; cracks or bearing wear can produce vibration or loss of pitch control.
Intuition Check
Blade grips are not handholds for a person. They are aircraft parts that hold the rotor blades on the hub.
Example Sentence 1
During the preflight, the pilot checked each blade grip for security and signs of cracking.
Example Sentence 2
A worn bearing inside the blade grip caused the rotor to develop a noticeable vibration in flight.