First Impressions of TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector
The TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector promises a significant upgrade to the standard AR-15 safety. Designed by TruCalibre, it boasts ambidextrous functionality and a user-configurable 45-degree or 90-degree throw. This feature alone sets it apart from many mil-spec safeties.
As a seasoned firearms enthusiast and tactical gear specialist, I’ve always sought improvements in weapon manipulation. The appeal of a faster, more intuitive safety selector was strong. I needed a safety that was easily accessible and quickly manipulated with or without gloves.
Upon receiving the TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector, I was immediately struck by its clean, minimalist design. The Cerakote finish appeared flawless, and the 6061 aluminum felt robust yet lightweight. Compared to a standard mil-spec safety, the TruCalibre offered a more substantial, tactile feel.
I considered other options, such as the Radian Weapons Talon and the Bravo Company USA BCMGUNFIGHTER Ambi Safety. However, the TruCalibre’s configurable throw and relatively lower price point swayed my decision. My initial impression was positive. I was eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector on my primary AR-15, which sees regular use at the shooting range and in training scenarios. My initial test took place at an outdoor range in moderately dusty conditions. The installation was relatively straightforward, though lacking included parts proved immediately problematic.
The ambidextrous levers were easily accessible from either side, and the engagement felt positive. I initially configured it for the 45-degree short throw. The shorter throw allowed for quicker transitions between safe and fire. However, without the correct detent and spring, the lever was loose and unreliable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After sourcing the missing parts, I was able to fully test the safety. After several weeks of use, the TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector has held up well. There are no visible signs of wear on the Cerakote finish.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a lightly oiled cloth removes any residue. Compared to some other aftermarket safeties I’ve used, the TruCalibre feels equally durable if a bit gritty in its action. Unfortunately, the lack of included detent and spring continued to be an issue, as the replaced parts were not perfectly matched to the TruCalibre.
Breaking Down the Features of TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector
Specifications
The TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector boasts several key specifications. It is manufactured by TruCalibre and finished with a durable Cerakote. Constructed from lightweight 6061 aluminum, the safety is designed for AR-15 platform rifles.
The ambidextrous design caters to both left and right-handed shooters. It can be configured for either a standard 90-degree throw or a shorter 45-degree throw. These specifications are critical for enhancing weapon manipulation speed and adaptability.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector is to provide a reliable and easily manipulated safety mechanism. When properly installed with correctly sized components, it performs its job adequately. The configurable throw is a welcome feature, allowing users to tailor the safety to their personal preference.
However, the lack of included detent and spring undermines the overall performance. Without these components, the safety is essentially useless. It is very disappointing to find such a core component missing.
Design & Ergonomics
The TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector features a clean, minimalist design. Its weight is negligible, adding virtually no bulk to the rifle. The levers are adequately sized and shaped for easy manipulation, even with gloved hands.
However, the detent channel should have been more carefully designed to allow for better integration. The user experience is directly impacted by the lack of included parts. This impacts the overall ergonomics of the safety.
Durability & Maintenance
The 6061 aluminum construction and Cerakote finish contribute to the safety’s durability. After several weeks of use, there are no signs of significant wear. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
The longevity of the TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector appears promising. The low parts count is also helpful in this regard. However, the finish’s ability to withstand long-term abuse remains to be seen.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector is a standalone component and does not come with any included accessories. While there are no direct customization options for the safety itself, it is compatible with any AR-15 lower receiver and associated parts. This is where the lack of included detent and spring becomes even more glaring.
Users can potentially enhance the safety’s performance by using aftermarket detents and springs. However, finding a perfectly matched set may require some trial and error. The addition of colored levers or end caps could be potential upgrades for personalization.
Pros and Cons of TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector
Pros
- Ambidextrous design provides easy access for both left and right-handed shooters.
- Configurable 45/90-degree throw allows users to customize the safety to their preference.
- Durable 6061 aluminum construction and Cerakote finish ensures long-lasting performance.
- Clean, minimalist design complements any AR-15 build.
- Relatively inexpensive compared to other ambidextrous safeties on the market, provided you don’t factor in the cost of the missing parts.
Cons
- Does not include the necessary detent and spring for proper installation, rendering it unusable out of the box.
- Gritty action, even after lubrication, suggests potential tolerance issues or rough machining.
- Potentially higher cost due to requiring additional parts.
Who Should Buy TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector?
The TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector is perfect for AR-15 owners seeking an ambidextrous and configurable safety upgrade. It is most beneficial for experienced shooters familiar with AR-15 assembly and troubleshooting. This is due to the need to source the missing detent and spring.
Those who should skip this product are novice AR-15 owners. They need a complete, ready-to-install safety selector. Anyone seeking a truly premium, drop-in replacement should look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory is, obviously, a compatible detent and spring kit. A high-quality gun grease can also improve the smoothness of the action.
Conclusion on TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector
The TruCalibre Enhanced Ambi Safety Selector offers a promising set of features at an attractive price point. However, the glaring omission of the detent and spring significantly detracts from its value. These parts render it useless without additional effort and expense.
The advertised price of $43.00 is not justified without including all necessary components. Were these parts included, the TruCalibre would be a strong contender in the budget-friendly ambidextrous safety market.
Would I personally recommend it? With reservations. If you are comfortable sourcing the missing parts and addressing potential grit, the TruCalibre can be a functional upgrade. Otherwise, I advise seeking a complete, ready-to-install alternative.