First Impressions of CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector
The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector promises a faster, more ergonomic transition between safe and fire. Manufactured by CMMG, a respected name in the AR-15 parts market, it’s designed to offer a shorter, 60-degree throw compared to the standard 90-degree safety selector. I was eager to see if this seemingly small change could actually translate to a noticeable improvement in handling speed and overall rifle control.
I was intrigued by the concept of shaving off those extra degrees; in a tactical situation, every fraction of a second counts. Having used various AR-15 platforms for years, I’ve often felt that the standard 90-degree throw was just a tad too long. The promise of a quicker transition was enough for me to give the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector a try.
Unboxing the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector, the initial impression was positive. The black finish looked clean and durable, and the serrations on the lever appeared aggressive enough to provide a secure grip. The weight felt comparable to a standard safety selector, which was expected.
While several aftermarket safety selectors exist, I specifically chose the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector due to CMMG’s reputation for quality and the simplicity of the design. Some ambi selectors can be bulky and overly complex, while this one seemed straightforward and functional. It was a deliberate choice based on the promise of improved efficiency without unnecessary frills.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed solid, and the concept was appealing, but I needed to put it through its paces to see if it lived up to the hype. Would it be a game-changer, or just another gimmick? Only real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions for evaluating its performance. I installed it on my go-to AR-15, a rifle I’m intimately familiar with, to better detect any differences.
The shorter throw was immediately noticeable, and transitioning from safe to fire felt quicker and more fluid. The serrated lever provided excellent grip, even with gloved hands. I experienced no issues during the initial few magazines, and the selector engaged positively in both positions.
However, during rapid fire drills, I noticed a slight roughness in the action. It wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was definitely not as smooth as the standard mil-spec selector I had been using. This initial roughness became more apparent with increased use, a minor but noticeable detraction.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and a carbine course, the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector held up relatively well. The black finish showed no signs of wear, and the serrations remained sharp. The shorter throw continued to feel advantageous, especially during dynamic drills.
Despite the finish holding up well, the roughness of the action never entirely disappeared. It didn’t worsen significantly, but it remained a constant reminder that it wasn’t as refined as some higher-end options. I found that applying a quality gun oil helped somewhat, but the underlying feel persisted.
Cleaning and maintenance were straightforward. The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector is a simple part, and there’s not much to it in terms of upkeep. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth was all it needed to keep it functioning.
Compared to my previous experience with mil-spec selectors, the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector offered a clear improvement in speed, but a slight decrease in smoothness. The increased speed was definitely a positive, but the roughness took away from the overall experience.
Breaking Down the Features of CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector
Specifications
The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector is a single-sided, short-throw safety selector designed for AR-15 platforms. It features a 60-degree throw compared to the standard 90-degree throw of mil-spec selectors. The selector is constructed of steel with a black finish.
The shorter throw allows for quicker transitions between safe and fire, which can be beneficial in competitive shooting or tactical situations. The steel construction ensures durability and longevity. The black finish provides corrosion resistance and a sleek appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector performs its primary function well: it allows for a faster transition between safe and fire. The shorter throw is genuinely noticeable and can improve handling speed. However, the roughness in the action detracts from the overall experience.
The selector engages positively in both safe and fire positions, providing a tactile and audible indication of its state. However, the roughness during the transition can be a minor annoyance. The product meets its fundamental expectation of shortening the throw, but the execution could be smoother.
Design & Ergonomics
The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector features a simple and functional design. The serrated lever provides a secure grip, even with gloved hands. The weight is comparable to a standard safety selector, so it doesn’t significantly alter the balance of the rifle.
The installation process is straightforward and requires no specialized tools. The design is user-friendly and doesn’t require any significant learning curve. However, the lack of ambidextrous functionality may be a drawback for some users.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction suggests that the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector should last for a long time. The black finish appears durable and resistant to wear. Maintenance is simple and requires only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
The product appears to be relatively durable and should withstand normal use without any issues. However, the roughness in the action may eventually lead to increased wear and tear over time. Continued lubrication will be key to longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector does not come with any accessories. It is a standalone part designed to replace the existing safety selector. There are no direct customization options for the selector itself.
It is compatible with most AR-15 lower receivers and should function with a variety of grips and trigger systems. However, it’s important to ensure compatibility with any aftermarket trigger systems that may have specific safety selector requirements. Be sure to test the safety with any new modifications.
Pros and Cons of CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector
Pros
- Shorter 60-degree throw allows for faster transitions between safe and fire.
- Aggressive serrations on the lever provide excellent grip, even with gloves.
- Durable steel construction ensures longevity.
- Easy installation requires no specialized tools.
- Affordable price makes it an accessible upgrade.
Cons
- Roughness in the action detracts from the overall feel.
- Not ambidextrous, which may be a drawback for some users.
Who Should Buy CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector?
The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector is perfect for budget-conscious shooters looking for a simple upgrade to improve handling speed. It’s also suitable for those who prioritize function over feel and don’t mind a slightly rough action. Competitive shooters and those practicing tactical drills may find the shorter throw beneficial.
Those who demand a smooth, refined action should skip this product. Shooters who require ambidextrous controls should also look elsewhere. Users who value a premium feel and are willing to spend more may find better options in higher-end brands.
A must-have modification would be a high-quality gun oil to minimize the roughness of the action. Beyond that, there are no essential accessories or modifications required.
Conclusion on CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector
The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector offers a noticeable improvement in handling speed at an affordable price. The shorter throw is genuinely beneficial and can make a difference in competitive or tactical scenarios. However, the roughness in the action is a significant drawback that detracts from the overall experience.
At a price of $14.99, the value proposition is decent. It’s a low-cost upgrade that can improve performance, but it’s not without its flaws. If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize speed over smoothness, it’s worth considering.
I would cautiously recommend it, with the caveat that buyers should be aware of the potential roughness. It’s a worthwhile upgrade for some, but not for everyone. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to improve your AR-15’s handling, give the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector a try, but be prepared to potentially deal with a slightly less-than-perfect action.