Grippers are not "fluff" for those who like Strength. Some of the greats are grip-legends.
Magnus Samuelson, Shaw, David Horne, Joe Kinney, etc.
Those who are into pure and total Strength (not just BB) know all about the Grip Board, and all the freaky strong people out there who are grip-strength lovers.
Its just another tool, when used properly, one can benefit.
Like all the tools, thick-bars, rolling thunder, pinch-grip, etc, etc...
Its just another form of competition, etc.
Ive seen some amazing things (in person) watching Slim 'Hammerman' Farman (ROP), Dennis Rogers, Greg Matonik (RIP), Mark Henry w/ the Inch-Bell, John Wood, Pat "Human Vise" Pavolitis, and many more at the old NJ Strongman dinners. Good old days...