HAND GRIP WIDTH?

[straightup]

does having a wider or more narrow grip change or alter the vault in any way? thanks.

[dj]

it does and can alter the approach run, plant technique and swing technique...

read Petrov...

dj

[Tom Wilson]

Stiffer pole, wider grip, soft pole narrower grip
Wide grip, harder to inverter, narrow grip easier to invert
It is a good thing to experiment with different grip widths as conditions and poles may create a need for grip width change. Best to become comfortable in practice. You'll be a more versatile vaulter.
As DJ says, even the run changes with grip width. When you start to learn a narrower grip many vaulters are uncomfortable just running down the runway. As he says same can happen with other parts of the vault.
My overall vote would be narrower is better than wide grip but it will depend upon athlete, pole and conditions. You'll need better body control since your points of support are closer together.