​The Hidden Dangers of Ambidextrous Safety Selectors for Fighting Rifles

In the world of firearms training, the importance of safety cannot be overstated. Every aspect of a rifle's design and operation must be carefully considered to ensure both the user's safety and the effectiveness of their training or real-world application. One often overlooked component in this equation is the safety selector.

While ambi-safeties might seem like a convenient solution to accommodate left-handed shooters or those who frequently switch shoulders in close-quarters combat (CQB) scenarios, there are hidden dangers that warrant closer examination.

The primary rationale behind the adoption of ambidextrous safety selectors has been to cater to individuals who may find traditional strong-side safeties cumbersome or impractical. For left-handed shooters, manipulating a safety designed for right-handed use can be awkward and inefficient. Similarly, people who implement switching shoulders into their training or work argue that having the safety accessible from either side enhances operational flexibility.

However, the reality is far more nuanced. Despite the perceived advantages of ambi-safeties, their implementation introduces potential safety hazards, particularly during sling positions. When a rifle is slung across the body, an ambi-safety may inadvertently get caught on gear or kit, resulting in unintended disengagement. This poses a significant risk, not only to the user but also to others around them. Unlike traditional strong-side safeties that can be positioned away from the body, ambi controls will always be resting against the user and their kit, no matter which way the rifle is slung. As a result, there's no foolproof way to ensure that the safety remains engaged when the rifle is slung against the user's kit.

The proposed alternative to ambi-safeties is the adoption of strong-side-only safeties, which maintain a consistent orientation regardless of the user's handedness or shoulder preference. Left-handed shooters can opt for specially designed strong-side safeties that mirror their right-handed counterparts, ensuring uniformity in operation.

Furthermore, proper sling techniques can mitigate the risk of accidental disengagement, regardless of the type of safety selector in use. By rolling the rifle away from the body during both front and rear sling positions, shooters can minimize the likelihood of interference with the safety selector, enhancing overall safety.

In conclusion, while ambi-safeties may seem like a practical solution for accommodating different shooting styles and preferences, their implementation introduces unforeseen safety risks. By prioritizing the reliability and consistency of strong-side-only safeties, shooters can mitigate the potential dangers associated with sling positions. Ultimately, in the realm of firearms training and real-world applications, safety should always remain the top priority.

So, before you decide on which safety selector to equip your fighting rifle with, consider the hidden dangers of ambi-safeties and opt for a solution that prioritizes safety without compromising functionality.