The Auray Universal Microphone Pistol Grip is a handheld grip that features an ergonomic cushioned handle. This grip is great in "run & gun" situations in which a boom pole would be cumbersome, and in video scenarios in which the cameraman is also responsible for audio recording. The grip can be held with one hand, as opposed to a boom pole which requires two. It also provides the option of being able to record audio from a different direction than the camera is pointing, an advantage over camera mounting the mic. Furthermore, having the mic mounted off the camera prevents it from picking up motor noise from the lens focusing.
In addition, the grip features standard 3/8" threads on both ends. This allows you to attach your shotgun mic (with shockmount) to one end of the grip and mount the other end to a boom pole. This gives you the flexibility of being able to quickly detach the pistol grip and the attached shotgun mic from the boom, an option that can come in handy for entering areas that are too small for a boom pole.