Let’s Dive into Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous
The Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous is a drop-in upgrade for your AR-platform rifle, designed to provide faster and more efficient switching between safe and fire. Noveske, known for their high-quality AR components, collaborated with Magpul on this selector, aiming to improve ergonomics and reduce actuation time. This ambidextrous selector offers a 60-degree throw, which is significantly shorter than the standard 90-degree throw found on most AR-15 safeties. It promises quicker transitions and enhanced control, particularly for shooters who prioritize speed and precision.
I initially sought out this selector to address a nagging issue with my primary AR-15: the sluggish and sometimes awkward manipulation of the standard safety selector. I often found myself over-rotating or struggling to quickly engage or disengage the safety, especially in dynamic shooting scenarios. The promise of a shorter throw and ambidextrous capability was incredibly appealing.
Upon receiving the Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous, my initial impression was a mix of anticipation and slight reservation. The stainless steel core exuded quality, however the plastic Magpul levers felt…plastic. The fit and finish of the selector itself seemed excellent, but the Magpul polymer levers gave me pause.
I considered several alternatives, including the Radian Talon and the Geissele Super Select Fire (SSF). I chose the Noveske due to its collaboration with Magpul and the promise of a balance between cost and performance. I was hopeful that the combination of Noveske engineering and Magpul’s ergonomic design would deliver a superior user experience.
I was initially excited by the prospect of a faster and more ergonomic safety selector. However, my initial apprehension regarding the Magpul levers lingered. I hoped my concerns would be unfounded once installed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous at my local shooting range. I ran several drills focusing on rapid transitions between safe and fire. The weather was dry, and the temperature was around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The immediate difference was noticeable: the 60-degree throw was indeed significantly faster. However, the stiffness of the selector and the feel of the Magpul levers became apparent quickly. I found myself applying more force than usual to actuate the safety, and the sharp edges of the polymer levers created noticeable discomfort on my thumb.
After a few magazines, my thumb became increasingly irritated by the texture of the Magpul levers. I had hoped the short throw would offer significant benefits, but the stiff action and uncomfortable levers detracted from the overall experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous has proven to be reasonably durable, though my initial impressions have remained largely unchanged. There are no signs of significant wear on the stainless steel core. However, the Magpul levers show some minor scuffing.
Maintenance has been straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The selector itself is easily accessible and simple to maintain. I have noticed, though, that the stiffness has only marginally improved with continued use.
Compared to my previous experience with a standard mil-spec safety, the Noveske offers a faster throw. But the trade-off in comfort and actuation force makes it a less desirable upgrade for me. A mil-spec safety might be slower, but the action is far smoother and doesn’t require the same amount of pressure.
Breaking Down the Features of Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous
Specifications
The Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous features a stainless steel core with a nitride finish for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. It boasts a 60-degree short throw, designed for faster transitions between safe and fire. The selector is ambidextrous, allowing for easy manipulation by both left- and right-handed shooters. It includes Magpul polymer selector levers for improved ergonomics and grip. The selector is designed to be a drop-in replacement for standard AR-15 safety selectors.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the user’s ability to quickly and reliably manipulate the safety. A shorter throw improves speed, while the ambidextrous design caters to a wider range of shooters. However, the choice of Magpul polymer for the levers can affect comfort and perceived quality.
Performance & Functionality
The Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous performs its primary function – switching between safe and fire – adequately. The shorter throw is indeed faster than a standard selector. However, the stiffness of the action and the discomfort caused by the Magpul levers detract from the overall user experience.
The primary strength of this selector is the reduced throw angle, which allows for quicker manipulation. The main weakness is the combination of a stiff action and the uncomfortable feel of the Magpul levers. It meets the basic expectation of providing a functional safety selector. However, it falls short in terms of user comfort and overall smoothness.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the stainless steel core is excellent, offering a robust and durable foundation. The Magpul levers, while lightweight, feel less premium than the core. The design aims for improved ergonomics with the ambidextrous configuration and textured levers.
The user-friendliness is mixed. Installation is simple, however the sharp edges and texture of the Magpul levers can create discomfort, especially during prolonged use. The ambidextrous design is a definite plus, however the levers themselves could benefit from a redesign.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel core and nitride finish suggest a long lifespan, and based on my testing, the Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous appears to be durable. The Magpul levers are likely to show wear over time, however they can be easily replaced if necessary.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The design is simple and robust, suggesting a high level of reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous does not come with any specific accessories beyond the selector itself and the included Magpul levers. However, the compatibility with standard AR-15 lower receivers means it can be used with a wide range of aftermarket grips and other accessories.
While the lever design is proprietary to the Noveske/Magpul collaboration, aftermarket levers might be adapted to fit. The primary customization option is choosing different lever styles or materials, if available.
Pros and Cons of Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous
Pros
- Faster transitions between safe and fire due to the 60-degree short throw.
- Ambidextrous design allows for easy manipulation by both left- and right-handed shooters.
- Durable stainless steel core with a nitride finish ensures long-lasting performance.
- Relatively easy to install as a drop-in replacement for standard AR-15 safety selectors.
- Noveske brand reputation for quality AR components.
Cons
- Stiff action requires more force to actuate the selector than a standard safety.
- Magpul polymer levers can feel uncomfortable, especially during prolonged use, due to sharp edges and texture.
- The polymer levers feel less premium compared to the stainless steel core.
Who Should Buy Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous?
The Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous is perfect for shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency in manipulating their AR-15 safety selector. This includes competitive shooters, tactical operators, and anyone who values rapid transitions between safe and fire. It’s also a good option for left-handed shooters seeking an ambidextrous solution.
This product isn’t ideal for shooters who prioritize comfort and smooth action over speed. Those with sensitive hands or who prefer a less tactile feel may find the Magpul levers uncomfortable. Shooters on a tight budget might also consider other options, as the price point is slightly higher than some basic aftermarket selectors.
A must-have modification would be exploring alternative lever options if they become available. Otherwise, shooters may want to wear gloves to mitigate the discomfort caused by the Magpul levers.
Conclusion on Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous
The Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous offers a noticeable improvement in actuation speed due to its shorter throw angle. The ambidextrous design caters to a wider range of users, and the stainless steel core promises durability. However, the stiffness of the action and the uncomfortable feel of the Magpul polymer levers detract from the overall user experience.
The price of $53.99 is arguably justified by the Noveske name and the ambidextrous functionality. However, the discomfort caused by the levers makes it a questionable value proposition for some. The enhanced speed might not outweigh the diminished comfort for many shooters.
I would cautiously recommend the Noveske Short Throw Selector Ambidextrous, especially for those who value speed above all else. However, I would strongly advise potential buyers to consider the potential discomfort caused by the Magpul levers. Consider trying it out, if possible, before committing to the purchase. If speed is your primary concern, then give this Noveske offering a try. But be prepared to possibly swap out the levers.