Let’s Talk About Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector
The Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector is a drop-in ambidextrous upgrade for your AR platform rifle. Designed by the renowned Wilson Combat, it allows for seamless safety manipulation from either side of the weapon. Its durable black nitride finish and rigid construction promise reliability, making it a popular choice for both seasoned shooters and those looking to enhance their AR’s functionality.
I was looking for an ambidextrous safety selector that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered superior quality and feel compared to standard mil-spec safeties. After years of relying on standard selectors and sometimes struggling to quickly engage or disengage the safety from unconventional shooting positions, the Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector seemed like an ideal solution. This upgrade promised enhanced ergonomics and ambidextrous capability, both features I highly value for versatile tactical applications.
Out of the box, the Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector impressed me. The part felt solid and well-made, with a noticeable heft that suggested quality materials and precise machining. Its black nitride finish gave it a sleek, professional look and promised excellent wear resistance.
I considered other options like the Radian Weapons Talon Ambidextrous Safety Selector and the Bravo Company USA Ambidextrous Safety Selector. Ultimately, I chose the Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector for its reputation for reliability, its straightforward USGI-style design, and its more affordable price point. The Radian Talon, while offering tool-less adjustability, felt like overkill for my needs, and I’d heard mixed reviews about the BCM’s durability over the long haul.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector exuded quality and promised a tangible upgrade over my existing mil-spec selector. I was genuinely excited to install it and put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector at my local shooting range, integrating it into my standard AR-15 build. I ran several drills, focusing on transitioning between different shooting positions and quickly engaging and disengaging the safety. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The ambidextrous design immediately proved its worth. I found it significantly easier and faster to manipulate the safety from both sides of the rifle, particularly when transitioning between strong-side and support-side shooting. The selector’s crisp, positive engagement provided a reassuring tactile feedback.
There were no major issues after the first range session. Installation was a breeze (more on that later), and the selector performed flawlessly throughout several hundred rounds. I was impressed by how smoothly it operated and how much it improved my handling speed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector has continued to impress. It has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear or loosening. Its black nitride finish remains intact, resisting scratches and corrosion even after being exposed to various weather conditions.
I’ve put the selector through its paces during several outdoor training sessions, including some in dusty and slightly damp conditions. Despite the less-than-ideal environment, the safety continued to function flawlessly. Cleaning and maintenance have been straightforward, requiring only occasional lubrication to maintain smooth operation.
Compared to my previous experience with mil-spec selectors, the Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector is a significant improvement. Its ambidextrous design, robust construction, and smooth operation make it a worthwhile upgrade for any AR owner seeking enhanced functionality and reliability. This has definitely outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Wilson Combat stands as a beacon of quality in the firearms industry. Their commitment to precision and durability is evident in every product they create.
- Color: Black, giving it a sleek and professional look that blends seamlessly with most AR builds.
- Hand: Ambidextrous, allowing for easy manipulation by both right- and left-handed shooters. This is more than just a convenience; it’s a tactical advantage.
The Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector’s specifications directly impact its performance and user experience. The ambidextrous design caters to a broader range of shooters. The black nitride finish ensures long-lasting durability, making it a worthwhile investment.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector excels in its primary function: providing a reliable and easily accessible safety mechanism. The selector engages and disengages with a crisp, positive click, offering excellent tactile feedback.
Its strengths lie in its ambidextrous design and robust construction. A minor improvement could be a slightly more aggressive texturing for enhanced grip, especially when operating with gloves. Overall, the Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector meets and exceeds expectations, delivering a significant upgrade over standard mil-spec safeties.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector boasts a thoughtful design. The materials are top-notch, and its weight feels substantial without being cumbersome. Its ergonomics are excellent, fitting comfortably and securely within the rifle’s controls.
The installation process is incredibly user-friendly. A novice could easily install it with basic tools and instructions. The drop-in nature of the Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector significantly reduces any learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector is built to last. The black nitride finish provides excellent resistance to wear and corrosion, ensuring long-term reliability.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. This enhances its value as a reliable component for any AR platform.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector itself does not come with additional accessories beyond the selector and a small container of blue Loctite. It is compatible with any AR/AR-10/AR pistol caliber carbine that accepts a USGI-style safety.
While not directly customizable, the Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector enhances the overall ergonomics and functionality of any AR build, seamlessly integrating with existing accessories like aftermarket grips and triggers. Its universal compatibility makes it a versatile upgrade option.
Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector
Pros
- Ambidextrous Design: Allows for easy manipulation from either side of the rifle, increasing versatility.
- Durable Black Nitride Finish: Provides excellent resistance to wear and corrosion, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Drop-In Replacement: Easy to install with minimal tools or expertise required, making it a user-friendly upgrade.
- Rigid Construction: Built to withstand heavy use and harsh conditions, promising consistent performance.
- Crisp, Positive Engagement: Offers excellent tactile feedback when engaging or disengaging the safety, promoting confidence.
Cons
- Small Detent Screw: The small screw securing the levers can be easily stripped if over-tightened, especially with incorrect tools or excessive Loctite.
- Basic Design: Lacks the adjustable lever lengths or angles found in some more expensive ambidextrous selectors.
Who Should Buy Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector?
The Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and any AR owner seeking improved weapon handling. It particularly benefits left-handed shooters who are tired of working around right-handed safety selectors.
Those who should skip this product are individuals prioritizing ultimate customization (adjustable lever lengths or angles). It is also not ideal for shooters on an extremely tight budget.
Must-have accessories or modifications? While the selector itself is a standalone upgrade, consider pairing it with an ambidextrous charging handle for a fully ambidextrous AR platform. This will further enhance the versatility of your firearm.
Conclusion on Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector
The Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector is a worthwhile upgrade for any AR owner seeking enhanced functionality and reliability. Its ambidextrous design, durable construction, and smooth operation provide a noticeable improvement over standard mil-spec safeties.
At $30.95, the price is justified by the tangible benefits it offers. Wilson Combat delivers exceptional quality at a reasonable price.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector to anyone looking to enhance their AR platform. It is a simple yet effective upgrade that significantly improves weapon handling and overall shooting experience. Upgrade your AR today with the Wilson Combat AR Safety Selector and experience the difference!
