CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector Review

A Practical Look at the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector

The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector is an intriguing upgrade for any AR-platform rifle, promising a more fluid transition between safe and fire. Coming from CMMG, a manufacturer known for its reliable firearms and components, this safety selector offers a short 60-degree throw rather than the traditional 90 degrees. This subtle change aims to speed up manipulations and improve the overall feel of the rifle. My own journey to this particular component stemmed from a growing frustration with the standard safety selector on a build I was fine-tuning. The 90-degree throw, while functional, felt a bit cumbersome during dynamic drills, often requiring a more deliberate wrist movement than I preferred. I had considered other aftermarket options, but most were ambidextrous, which wasn’t a priority for my right-handed operation. The promise of a quicker, more refined selector for a modest price caught my attention, and my initial impression upon arrival was one of solid craftsmanship.

Real-World Testing: Putting CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector took place at my local indoor range, a controlled environment that allows for rapid manipulation and assessment of basic function. I installed it on a mid-length AR-15 build, focusing on the speed and tactile feedback during transitions. The installation itself was straightforward, no different from a standard mil-spec selector, which was a relief.

Performance in this initial, static environment was promising. The 60-degree throw was immediately noticeable; it felt snappier and required less rotation of the wrist to move between states. However, even in these first few transitions, I did perceive a slight grittiness to the mechanism, a subtle roughness that I hadn’t anticipated.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and multiple range sessions, including some informal drills simulating quick target acquisition and re-engagement, the CMMG safety selector has proven to be a consistent performer, albeit with some caveats. The reduced throw continues to be a benefit, making those quick shifts feel more natural and less distracting. I’ve subjected it to environments with moderate dust and a few sessions where light humidity was present, and its function remained unchanged.

Durability seems to be a strong point. Despite the initial slight grittiness, there are no visible signs of wear, such as excessive scratching or deformation on the levers or the detent notch. The finish remains intact, a testament to the quality of materials and manufacturing. Maintenance has been minimal; a light application of lubricant during a general rifle cleaning is all it has needed. Compared to some other budget aftermarket selectors I’ve used in the past, which often developed excessive play or became stiff, this unit feels more robust. However, it still hasn’t quite achieved the buttery smoothness of some premium, higher-priced options.

Breaking Down the Features of CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector

Specifications

The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector is presented with a clear set of specifications that highlight its intended purpose and build. It features a 60-degree short throw design, a significant departure from the standard 90-degree operation found on most mil-spec selectors. This shorter throw means a quicker transition from the ‘Safe’ to the ‘Fire’ position, requiring less manual rotation.

The construction is noted for its sturdy build, implying durability and reliability under stress. The lever serrations are a stylized addition, designed not only for aesthetics but also to provide a confident grip. This tactile enhancement ensures positive engagement, even with gloves or when hands are slick.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – reliably switching between safe and fire – the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector performs its duty. The 60-degree throw is indeed faster than a standard 90-degree selector, making follow-up shots or immediate action drills feel more streamlined. This efficiency is particularly noticeable when operating the selector rapidly.

However, its performance isn’t without minor drawbacks. As mentioned in my initial impressions and consistent throughout testing, there is a discernible play or looseness in the lever before it fully engages the detent. This means the selector can wobble slightly up and down before it clicks into the desired position. While it doesn’t appear to affect functional reliability, this feeling of looseness is less refined than what one might expect from a high-end component, and it contributes to a perceived roughness in operation.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this selector is quite striking. The stylized lever serrations are a welcome departure from the utilitarian look of many mil-spec parts, offering a more aggressive and modern aesthetic. These serrations are well-defined and provide adequate purchase when manipulating the selector.

Ergonomically, the short throw is a definite plus for speed and ease of operation. For right-handed shooters, the standard configuration is comfortable and accessible. However, the previously noted up-and-down play does detract from the overall premium feel. While the lever itself is well-shaped, that slight wobble can make the manipulation feel less precise or crisp than it could be.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended testing, the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector appears to be constructed from durable materials that should withstand the rigors of regular use. The sturdy construction is evident, and I haven’t observed any signs of premature wear or structural compromise.

Maintenance is straightforward and aligns with standard AR-15 component care. A light application of lubricant to the detent and engagement points is generally sufficient to keep it operating smoothly. The serrated levers are also easy to wipe clean. The primary concern regarding durability would be the internal mechanism that allows for the 60-degree throw; while it hasn’t failed, the slight looseness does raise questions about its long-term resilience compared to simpler, more robust designs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector is primarily a standalone component, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with additional accessories. Its customization options are limited to the aesthetic and functional design of the selector lever itself. The stylized lever serrations offer a degree of personalization.

While it uses a standard AR-15 interface, meaning it will work with most mil-spec lower receivers, it’s worth noting that this is not an ambidextrous safety selector. For those seeking full ambidextrous control, CMMG does offer other ZEROED series options, but this particular model is designed for single-sided manipulation.

Pros and Cons of CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector

Who Should Buy CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector?

The CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector is an excellent choice for AR-15 owners looking for a quicker, more responsive safety selector without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for individuals who engage in dynamic shooting drills, competitive shooting, or simply prefer a faster manipulation for their rifle. This is also a great option for someone building a rifle on a budget who wants a functional upgrade over a standard mil-spec selector.

However, those who demand the absolute smoothest operation and tightest tolerances might find the slight play and grittiness to be a detractor. Users who require an ambidextrous safety selector will need to look at different models. For optimal performance and to potentially mitigate some of the perceived roughness, I would recommend using a high-quality lubricant and ensuring proper installation with a good detent spring and pin.

Conclusion on CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector

Overall, the CMMG ZEROED 60 Safety Selector offers a compelling value proposition for its price. The 60-degree throw is a genuine functional improvement that can enhance shooting dynamics. Its sturdy build and attractive design are also significant positives, making it a visually appealing and robust component.

While it doesn’t quite achieve the refined feel of much more expensive selectors, particularly concerning the slight play and operational grittiness, it represents a substantial upgrade over a standard mil-spec part. For its asking price of $14.99, it delivers a lot of bang for your buck. I would recommend it to anyone seeking a faster, more tactile safety selector on a budget, especially if they prioritize speed and affordability over absolute polish.