Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto Review

Let’s Dive into Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto

The Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto is a drop-in replacement for your AR-15’s standard safety selector. Manufactured by Troy Industries, this ambidextrous safety selector offers improved ergonomics and ease of use for both right- and left-handed shooters. The direct thread design aims to eliminate the common issue of screws loosening or stripping, while the different lever profiles are intended to enhance functionality and prevent interference with the trigger.

I decided to try the Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto because I was looking for a more positive and reliable safety selector for my AR-15 build. I wanted an ambidextrous option that wouldn’t loosen over time, something that I’ve experienced with standard set screw designs.

Out of the box, the selector felt solid and well-machined. The levers had a distinct texture, and the different profiles for each side seemed well thought out. My initial impression was positive, though I was slightly concerned about the reported issues with the direct thread screw stripping during installation, which I read about in customer reviews.

I considered other ambidextrous safety selectors from Magpul and BCM before choosing the Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto. Ultimately, I opted for the Troy model because of its direct thread design and the promise of a more secure and reliable installation. My initial feeling was cautiously optimistic, hoping the installation would go smoothly and address the shortcomings of the standard safety selectors I’ve used in the past.


Real-World Testing: Putting Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto at my local indoor shooting range. I installed the selector on a newly built AR-15 lower receiver and ran several drills focusing on transitioning between safe and fire. The improved ergonomics were immediately noticeable, and the selector levers felt easier to manipulate than the standard mil-spec safety.

During my initial testing, the range was well-lit and climate-controlled, which didn’t present any environmental challenges. The selector’s performance was smooth and positive, and the different lever profiles felt comfortable and intuitive. The only concern I had was the slight resistance encountered when tightening the screw during installation, which made me extra cautious to avoid stripping it.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto has held up reasonably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the selector levers or the main body. The stainless steel detent plungers continue to provide a crisp and positive engagement between the safe and fire positions.

The durability of the finish seems adequate, with no noticeable chipping or fading after extensive use and handling. Maintaining the selector has been relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the detent plungers. Compared to my previous experiences with standard safety selectors, the Troy model offers a noticeable improvement in ergonomics and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto

Specifications

  • Type: 90 Degree, indicating the selector switch rotates 90 degrees between safe and fire positions. This is a standard configuration for AR-15 style rifles, offering a familiar and intuitive user experience.
  • For: Semi-Automatic, meaning it’s designed specifically for semi-automatic AR-15 platforms. This implies that it won’t function properly in full-auto or burst-fire configurations, which are typically restricted to military and law enforcement use.
  • Master Model Header: Ambidextrous Safety Selector Semi-Automatic, which highlights its suitability for both right- and left-handed shooters. This enhances the rifle’s versatility and caters to a broader user base.
  • Construction: Rugged machined billet tool steel. This material choice is critical for durability and longevity, ensuring the selector can withstand repeated use and exposure to harsh conditions.
  • Design: No screws or threading to come loose or strip; utilizes stainless steel detent plungers to lock levers into place. This design aims to eliminate the common failure point of screws loosening or stripping, contributing to enhanced reliability.
  • Lever Profile: Traditional lever side has been built for a more positive feel; right side features a lower profile lever and will not interfere with trigger operation for right handed shooters. The different lever profiles are designed to optimize ergonomics and prevent accidental trigger engagement, enhancing both comfort and safety.
  • Compatibility: Will not work with non Mil-Spec receivers or billet receivers. This is a critical point, as it limits the selector’s compatibility to mil-spec AR-15 receivers and may require additional consideration for custom builds or aftermarket receivers.

Performance & Functionality

The Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto performs its primary job of selecting between safe and fire modes very well. The selector moves smoothly and positively between positions, providing a clear indication of the current firing mode. The ambidextrous design works effectively for both right- and left-handed shooters, enhancing the overall usability of the rifle.

One significant strength is the enhanced ergonomics provided by the different lever profiles. The traditional lever side offers a positive feel and is easy to manipulate, while the lower profile lever on the right side avoids interference with the trigger finger. However, the reported issue of stripping the direct thread screw during installation remains a potential weakness, requiring careful installation to avoid damage.

Overall, the selector meets or exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality, but users need to exercise caution during the installation process.

Design & Ergonomics

The Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto features a robust design made from machined billet tool steel, providing a solid and durable feel. The weight of the selector is comparable to other aftermarket options, adding minimal weight to the rifle. The different lever profiles are well thought out, enhancing both comfort and ease of use.

The ambidextrous design makes the selector user-friendly for both right- and left-handed shooters, and the improved ergonomics reduce the need to adjust grip while switching between safe and fire. While the installation process can be a bit tricky due to the potential for stripping the direct thread screw, the overall design contributes to a positive user experience.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from machined billet tool steel and stainless steel detent plungers, the Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto is expected to last for many years with proper care. The durable finish resists wear and tear, and the high-quality materials ensure reliable performance even under harsh conditions.

Maintenance is relatively straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the detent plungers. In the event of damage, replacing individual components may be challenging due to the integrated design.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto comes as a standalone unit with no additional accessories included. It does not directly interface with other accessories, such as optics or grips. While the selector itself is not customizable, it is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 platforms, making it a versatile upgrade for most builds.

Pros and Cons of Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto

Pros

  • Improved Ergonomics: Different lever profiles enhance comfort and ease of use for both right- and left-handed shooters.
  • Ambidextrous Design: Suitable for both right- and left-handed shooters, enhancing the rifle’s versatility.
  • Durable Construction: Made from machined billet tool steel and stainless steel detent plungers, ensuring long-lasting performance.
  • Positive Engagement: Stainless steel detent plungers provide a crisp and positive engagement between the safe and fire positions.
  • Direct Thread Design: Aims to eliminate the common failure point of screws loosening or stripping, enhancing reliability.

Cons

  • Installation Difficulty: Potential for stripping the direct thread screw during installation, requiring extra caution.
  • Limited Compatibility: Will not work with non-Mil-Spec receivers or billet receivers, restricting its use to certain AR-15 platforms.


Who Should Buy Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto?

The Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto is perfect for AR-15 enthusiasts looking for an upgraded, ambidextrous safety selector with improved ergonomics and reliability. It is particularly well-suited for tactical shooters, competitive shooters, and anyone who values a more positive and user-friendly safety selector. Left-handed shooters will especially appreciate the ambidextrous design.

This product might not be the best choice for those who are new to AR-15 builds or lack experience with small parts installation. The risk of stripping the direct thread screw during installation could be frustrating for inexperienced users. Additionally, those with non-Mil-Spec receivers should avoid this product due to compatibility issues.

A must-have modification is to apply a small amount of anti-seize compound or carefully reduce the amount of factory-applied thread locker before installation to minimize the risk of stripping the screw.

Conclusion on Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto

The Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto offers a significant improvement over standard AR-15 safety selectors, particularly in terms of ergonomics and ambidextrous functionality. The durable construction and positive engagement between the safe and fire positions inspire confidence in its reliability. However, the potential for stripping the direct thread screw during installation is a noteworthy concern.

At a price of $64.49, the value proposition is reasonable, given the enhanced features and robust construction. While the installation process requires extra caution, the overall performance and durability of the Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto make it a worthwhile upgrade for those seeking a more reliable and user-friendly safety selector.

I would personally recommend this product to experienced AR-15 builders and enthusiasts who are comfortable with small parts installation and appreciate the benefits of an ambidextrous design. Take your AR-15 build to the next level with the Troy Safety Selector Assembly, Direct Thread, Ambi, Semi Auto – just remember to proceed with caution during installation!

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