Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector Review

First Impressions of Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector

The Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector promises enhanced control and reliability for AR-15 platforms, a tempting prospect for any serious shooter. Battle Arms Development aims to improve upon the standard safety selector, offering ambidextrous functionality and customizable throw angles. I was hoping for a drop-in upgrade that would enhance my AR-15’s ergonomics and make it easier to manipulate under stress.

I’ve been tinkering with AR builds for over a decade, and the standard safety selector is often the first thing I upgrade. I was looking for something that offered ambidextrous use and a more positive, tactile feel. The claim of compatibility with virtually all triggers and lowers, alongside the robust locking mechanism, further piqued my interest.

The Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector arrives in a simple, functional package. Upon opening, I immediately noticed the quality of the machining and the skeletonized levers. The parts felt solid and well-made, a promising sign.

Compared to my previous ambidextrous selector, a generic mil-spec replacement, the Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector stood out with its lighter weight and more aggressive texturing on the levers. I chose it specifically for its short-throw option and the promise of a more secure attachment system, addressing common issues I’ve encountered with other ambidextrous selectors. I had initially considered the Radian Talon, but the Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector’s unique locking mechanism swayed me.

Initially, I was excited about the potential for enhanced control and the promise of a more robust design. The skeletonized levers are aesthetically pleasing, and the included short-throw option seemed like a significant improvement over standard selectors. I was also curious to see if the claims about universal compatibility held true.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector at my local shooting range during a practical rifle course. The weather was dry and mild, a typical Southern California day. I wanted to evaluate the selector’s performance under rapid-fire drills and transitions.

The selector performed admirably even when my hands were sweaty from repeated drills. The positive engagement and tactile feedback made transitioning between safe and fire much smoother, especially when switching shoulders. After a few magazines, I noticed an issue with the set screw loosening slightly after extended firing, requiring a quick tightening.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. Aside from that initial set screw loosening, it has held up well. The anodized finish shows minimal wear, even after repeated handling.

The selector is relatively easy to clean, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session. It outperformed my previous generic selector by offering a more positive and reliable engagement, enhancing my confidence during drills. The short throw option has become my preferred setting, allowing for faster transitions.

Breaking Down the Features of Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector

Specifications

The Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector features a modular assembly allowing for customized lever configurations. It provides true ambidextrous controls, essential for both left and right-handed shooters. The unit offers a reversible 0-60 or 0-90 degree throw option, catering to different shooting styles and preferences.

The levers are crafted from lightweight, billet 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum. The center core is Swiss CNC machined for enhanced precision. It is compatible with ALL known AR variant triggers (Hiperfire, Geissele, CMC, Timney, etc.), removing compatibility headaches. The included sticker helps with lowers with or without short-throw relief cuts.

Performance & Functionality

The Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector excels at providing positive and reliable control. The ambidextrous design allows for easy manipulation from either side of the rifle. The option to switch between 60 and 90-degree throws is a significant advantage, allowing users to tailor the selector to their preferences.

The strength lies in its solid construction and positive engagement, enhancing confidence during use. The set screw can loosen with extended use, requiring occasional tightening; this is something that could be improved. Overall, it significantly exceeds expectations compared to mil-spec selectors.

Design & Ergonomics

The Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector features high-quality materials and a lightweight design, enhancing comfort and control. The skeletonized levers provide a tactile and positive grip. The ergonomic design allows for effortless manipulation.

The selector is user-friendly, requiring minimal installation and adjustment time. The only learning curve involved is determining the preferred throw angle.

Durability & Maintenance

The Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector is built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and robust construction. The anodized finish provides excellent resistance to wear and corrosion. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.

The dovetail attachment is engineered for ultimate strength, adding years to its lifespan. If the set screw issue is properly addressed during installation, this is a long-term investment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector kit includes two levers (standard and short) and the necessary hardware for installation. It is fiber optic insert compatible, allowing shooters to add visual indicators to the levers. The selector is compatible with most AR-15 lower receivers and triggers.

It may be combined with aftermarket grips and trigger guards for further customization. The Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector enhances the function and appearance of any build.

Pros and Cons of Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector

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Who Should Buy Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector?

Perfect for tactical shooters, competitive shooters, and anyone looking for an enhanced AR-15 safety selector. It offers improved ergonomics and reliability. This is especially beneficial for ambidextrous shooters or those who prioritize rapid and confident weapon manipulation.

Those on a tight budget or who are satisfied with a standard mil-spec selector can skip this product. An Allen wrench to tighten the set screw should always be kept handy.

Conclusion on Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector

The Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector is a worthwhile upgrade for any AR-15 enthusiast seeking enhanced control and reliability. The price may be higher than standard selectors, but the improved ergonomics, ambidextrous design, and customizable throw angles justify the investment. The robust construction and positive engagement provide a level of confidence that far surpasses standard mil-spec selectors.

I would highly recommend the Battle Arms Development Elite AR-15 Ambidextrous Safety Selector to anyone looking to upgrade their AR-15. Invest in a safer, smoother shooting experience, and consider adding this to your next build!