The handgrip strength could be simply measured by shaking hands with the patient. Unfortunately, this is just a clinical test, and to some extent it is loaded with subjectivity. Furthermore, it is not reproducible and not quantitative method. On the other hand, it is reliable and could be registered by description.

I do not think the use of handgrip dynamometer (quantitative and reproducible measurement) is obsolete, and it is not so expensive.

I think the handgrip dynamometer is a simple bedside test and not expensive and available.  So, why you are asking for another test.

there are several grip dynamometers available on market. example: one simple, direct system is the electronic hand dynamometer  from Logger Lite™, Vernier Software and Technology, Beaverton, OR. i've used this in our research to profile subject grip strength profiles.

Handgrip dynanmometers are not expensive. If the measure will be used to address a research question or to assess and reassess patients purchasing a dynamometer is certainly justified. One thing that is often not considered is proper fitting of the hand to assure reliable measurements.

Hi you can use manual tests to assess the strength of single muscle or group of muscle (Kendall) but this way you cannot easily compare the results (they can vary from one therapist to another)

Hi - What is the context/ setting of the hand grip assessment?  Do you need a reliable and valid measure of hand grip strength or an impression?

Hi - I agree entirely with the rhetorical question of Robert.

This discussion has lost any sense. In my opinion the answer  a priori is - conventional dynamometer.