First Impressions of Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety
The Browning Hi-Power is a classic pistol, and for southpaws like myself, manipulating the controls can be a challenge. That’s why the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety immediately caught my eye. Designed to allow left-handed shooters to easily engage and disengage the safety, this upgrade promises enhanced ergonomics and improved handling.
As a long-time Hi-Power enthusiast, I’ve always been on the lookout for ways to make this platform more ambidextrous. Existing options were either poorly designed or required extensive gunsmithing, so I had high hopes for the Cylinder & Slide offering. Upon unboxing, the thumb safety components looked robust and well-machined, exuding a sense of quality that Cylinder & Slide is known for.
Compared to a standard Hi-Power thumb safety or some of the cheaper aftermarket ambidextrous safeties I’ve seen, the Cylinder & Slide part appears significantly more durable and thoughtfully designed. The extended levers provide a larger contact surface, potentially offering better leverage and easier manipulation. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of improved functionality and the reputation of the manufacturer.
While I was initially excited, I was also cautiously optimistic, knowing that “requires fitting” can sometimes translate to “requires a gunsmith.” However, the potential for a truly ambidextrous Hi-Power was too tempting to pass up, and I was eager to see if the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety would live up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved fitting the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety to my 1970s-era Hi-Power. The fitting process required careful filing and adjustment, taking several hours to achieve a smooth and reliable engagement. At the range, the extended levers provided a noticeable improvement in accessibility, particularly when manipulating the safety with my left thumb.
In dry-fire drills, the ambidextrous thumb safety was a game-changer, allowing me to quickly and confidently switch the safety on and off, regardless of which hand I was using. Live-fire testing further validated these improvements. The larger levers were easier to locate and manipulate under pressure, particularly when wearing gloves.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of excessive wear or loosening, and the safety continues to function flawlessly. Routine cleaning and lubrication, as with any firearm component, are essential.
Compared to the original safety, the Cylinder & Slide part offers a significant upgrade in both ergonomics and accessibility. I find the ambidextrous design to be a major advantage, allowing for consistent operation regardless of shooting hand. It has certainly exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety
Specifications
The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety is designed specifically for the Browning Hi-Power 9mm and .40 S&W pistols. It features an extended lever design on both sides of the pistol, facilitating easier manipulation, especially for left-handed shooters. The safety is constructed from high-quality steel and finished in a blued finish to match the original Hi-Power aesthetics.
A key specification is the “requires fitting” designation. This means that the part is intentionally manufactured slightly oversized, necessitating careful filing and adjustment by a qualified gunsmith or experienced user to ensure proper function and safe operation. The material used and the fitting requirement are critical for achieving a precise and reliable fit.
Performance & Functionality
The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety excels in enhancing the Hi-Power’s usability for left-handed shooters. The extended levers make it easier to engage and disengage the safety with the thumb, even under stress or while wearing gloves. The precise fitting ensures a crisp and positive engagement.
A potential weakness is the fitting requirement. If not properly fitted, the safety may not function correctly, leading to unreliable operation or even unsafe conditions. However, when properly installed, the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety significantly improves the Hi-Power’s overall handling and safety. It absolutely meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety features a well-thought-out design that blends seamlessly with the Hi-Power’s classic aesthetics. The extended levers are ergonomically shaped for comfortable thumb placement. The quality of the materials used is evident in the part’s robust feel and durability.
The user-friendliness hinges on the installation process. The fitting process requires patience and skill. However, the resulting improvement in ergonomics and accessibility makes the effort worthwhile.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from high-quality steel, the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety is built to last. With proper lubrication and care, it should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and inspection are recommended to ensure smooth operation and prevent any potential issues.
The blued finish is reasonably durable, but it may show signs of wear over time, particularly in high-friction areas. The safety is relatively easy to maintain with standard gun cleaning supplies.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety itself doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with most standard Hi-Power grips and holsters. There are no specific customization options for the safety itself, as its primary function is to provide an ambidextrous safety solution.
The compatibility with existing Hi-Power accessories is a significant advantage, allowing users to upgrade their pistol without needing to replace other components. The part is intended to enhance the existing firearm rather than requiring a complete overhaul.
Pros and Cons of Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety
Pros
- Improved Ergonomics: The extended levers offer a more comfortable and accessible thumb safety for both right- and left-handed shooters, making it easier to manipulate under stress.
- Enhanced Ambidextrous Capability: Specifically designed for ambidextrous use, allowing left-handed shooters to operate the Hi-Power with greater ease and confidence.
- High-Quality Construction: Made from durable steel with a blued finish, ensuring longevity and a consistent look with the firearm.
- Increased Safety: Enables quicker and more reliable engagement/disengagement of the safety, promoting safer handling in various shooting scenarios.
- A Cylinder & Slide product. Cylinder & Slide products are known for their precision and quality.
Cons
- Requires Fitting: Professional fitting may be necessary for proper installation and function, adding to the overall cost.
- Potential for Bluing Wear: The blued finish can wear over time, particularly in high-use areas, potentially requiring refinishing.
Who Should Buy Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety?
The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety is perfect for left-handed shooters looking to improve the ergonomics and handling of their Browning Hi-Power. It’s also a great upgrade for right-handed shooters who appreciate the added convenience of an ambidextrous safety. Competitive shooters and those who use the Hi-Power for self-defense will also benefit from the enhanced accessibility and safety.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who are uncomfortable with gunsmithing or lack the skills to properly fit the safety. The “requires fitting” nature of the product means that it’s not a drop-in replacement. Those on a very tight budget may also want to consider the cost of professional gunsmithing services.
Must-have accessories or modifications include a qualified gunsmith for installation and fitting, and potentially a new holster if the extended levers interfere with the existing holster.
Conclusion on Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety
The Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety is a worthwhile upgrade for any Hi-Power owner seeking improved ergonomics and enhanced ambidextrous capabilities. While the fitting requirement adds complexity and cost, the resulting improvement in handling and safety is well worth the investment. The price is justified.
I would personally recommend it to anyone who values quality and performance in their firearms accessories. If you’re a Hi-Power enthusiast looking to enhance your pistol’s usability, then you can confidently enhance your experience with the Cylinder & Slide Hi Power Extended Ambidextrious Thumb Safety today!