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The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is continuing its quest to find the best overhead handle.

The authority recently began testing three different handle styles on its rail cars — two produced from nylon fabric and a third made of stainless steel. The handles hang down between 10 and 12 inches. Next month, authority officials expect to choose a model, which will be installed on about 300 cars by year's end.

Last year, WMATA installed spring-loaded stainless steel handles on 40 of its new 6000 series rail cars under a pilot program. When pulled down, the handles are eight inches lower than the existing ceiling-mounted grab bars, making it easier for shorter riders to grip. The agency expects to install the handles on its entire 6000 series fleet by year's end.