One Tool, Many Questions: The Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector
It’s easy to overlook the humble safety selector when building or upgrading a rifle. After all, a standard mil-spec part usually does the job. However, this small component is a frequent touchpoint, and its function can significantly impact the user experience, especially on an AR platform. My own search for a more refined and robust solution led me to the Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector. It promised an innovative locking mechanism and a sleeker profile, addressing some common frustrations with existing designs. Upon first impression, the precision machining and the use of quality materials, like the 6061-T6 Aluminum levers and black nitride coated 4140 steel core, were immediately apparent. I had considered some other boutique options, but the Fortis Manufacturing‘s proprietary RidgeKey system piqued my interest the most. My initial feeling was one of quiet anticipation, a hope that this upgrade would offer a tangible improvement over standard offerings.
Real-World Testing: Putting Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing began on my home workbench, assembling a new AR build. The Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector integrated smoothly with the lower receiver. I immediately appreciated the lack of visible screws holding the levers to the core, a clean aesthetic that hints at the proprietary locking system within. I then took the rifle to the range for its maiden voyage. The distinct, satisfying click when engaging and disengaging the safety was noticeable, providing positive tactile feedback. The medium length levers offered a comfortable reach without being obtrusive, and the strategically placed serrations provided ample grip, even with slightly damp hands from a warm day. There were no immediate issues, only a quiet sense of well-executed design.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several hundred rounds and countless manipulation cycles over a few months, the Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector has held up exceptionally well. It has been through dusty range days and been handled with varying degrees of care. Despite the frequent use, there are no signs of wear, stiffness, or any degradation in its positive engagement. Cleaning is as simple as any other selector: a quick wipe down and reinstallation. Compared to some other aftermarket selectors I’ve used, which sometimes develop play or require periodic tightening, this unit has remained remarkably solid and reliable. The absence of exposed set screws, a common failure point on many designs, is a significant advantage for long-term durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector
Specifications
The Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector is constructed primarily from 6061-T6 Aluminum for the selector levers, offering a balance of lightweight strength and corrosion resistance. The core, which is the heart of the mechanism, is made from 4140 Steel and is treated with a black nitride coating for superior wear resistance and a smoother operating surface. An optional TiN (Titanium Nitride) coating is also available for enhanced durability and a distinct aesthetic.
This selector is designed for the AR Platform, fitting standard AR-15 and AR-10 receivers. It features ambidextrous selector levers, catering to both right and left-handed shooters. A key design element is its medium length, which strikes a balance between ease of manipulation and avoiding accidental engagement. The mechanism allows for both 50 and 90-degree throw options, catering to individual preference and operational needs.
A standout specification is its patent pending RidgeKey locking mechanism. This system replaces traditional set screws or Torx fasteners with a robust internal engagement, eliminating weak points and the need for specialized tools for installation or adjustment. The cutout design on the levers allows a glimpse of the coated core, adding a visual element to its functional design. This thoughtful combination of materials and engineering ensures a durable and user-friendly component.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of any safety selector is to reliably switch between firing and safe modes, and the Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector excels at this. The mechanism is smooth and precise, with a distinct, audible, and tactile click at both the 50 and 90-degree positions. This positive feedback is crucial for ensuring the rifle is in the intended state without needing to visually confirm.
The RidgeKey locking mechanism truly shines here, providing a solid and unwavering connection between the levers and the core. Unlike some designs that can loosen over time due to vibration or user manipulation, this selector remains tight and secure. This inherent stability contributes significantly to its functional reliability. The medium length levers are perfectly proportioned, offering enough surface area for quick and confident manipulation without snagging on gear or other equipment.
A minor point of consideration, based on some user feedback, relates to the initial installation and the need for proper detent and spring. While these are standard AR components and typically not included with aftermarket selectors, ensuring you have quality detents and springs will optimize the feel and function. Once properly installed, however, the performance is exceptional, offering a level of refinement that justifies the upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector is a clear departure from the utilitarian look of standard parts. The 6061-T6 Aluminum levers feature a modern, slightly skeletalized profile that reduces weight and adds a touch of visual flair. The cutout design not only offers a glimpse of the coated core but also contributes to an overall less bulky appearance.
Ergonomically, the levers are well-shaped. The strategically placed serrations are aggressive enough to provide a positive grip, even with gloves or in adverse conditions, but not so sharp as to be uncomfortable during prolonged handling. The medium length ensures that whether you’re a right-handed shooter using your trigger finger or a left-handed shooter using your thumb, the transition to safety or fire is intuitive and quick. The 4140 Steel core, coated in black nitride, feels smooth and robust.
The overall build quality feels premium. The finish on the aluminum levers is uniform, and the nitride coating on the steel core is deep and consistent. There are no rough edges or imperfections. It’s a component that feels as good in the hand as it looks, contributing to a more refined and user-friendly firearm.
Durability & Maintenance
Durability is clearly a priority in the design of this safety selector. The combination of 6061-T6 Aluminum for the levers and the hardened 4140 Steel core with a black nitride finish suggests excellent longevity. The RidgeKey locking mechanism, by eliminating the common failure point of screws backing out, further enhances its robust nature. I have not observed any signs of wear or stress on the unit despite extensive use.
Maintenance is minimal, which is ideal for a critical firearm component. Cleaning involves simply wiping down the exterior surfaces. The internal mechanism, protected by the nitride coating and the secure RidgeKey system, should require no lubrication beyond what is typically applied to the receiver’s detent and spring. Its design is inherently resistant to the ingress of dirt and debris, unlike some selectors with exposed screw heads.
Potential concerns, as noted by some users, revolve around the detent and spring, which are not included. While standard for many aftermarket parts, ensuring these components are of good quality is vital for proper function and longevity. The selector itself, however, appears built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector is designed to be a standalone upgrade, with no specific accessories included. However, the optional TiN coated core offers a significant aesthetic customization, providing a striking contrast against the aluminum levers.
Beyond that, its strength lies in its compatibility with standard AR-15/AR-10 lower receivers. While not an accessory in the traditional sense, the choice between 50 and 90-degree throws is a critical customization that allows users to tailor the selector’s operation to their personal preference and shooting style. This flexibility is a key benefit. The ambidextrous levers also cater to a wider range of users without needing separate left or right-handed versions.
Pros and Cons of Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector
Pros
- Innovative patent pending RidgeKey locking mechanism eliminates screw loosening and simplifies installation.
- Ambidextrous 6061 T6 Aluminum selector levers are lightweight, durable, and ergonomically designed.
- Black nitride coated 4140 Steel selector core offers superior wear resistance and a smooth operation.
- Offers both 50 and 90-degree throw options for user customization.
- Medium length levers provide a comfortable and accessible grip without snagging.
- Cutout design offers a clean aesthetic and allows visibility of the coated core.
- Solid tactile and audible click ensures positive engagement confirmation.
Cons
- Does not include the necessary detent and spring, requiring a separate purchase or sourcing from an existing build.
- Initial user experience may vary based on the quality of the detent and spring used.
- The price is higher than basic mil-spec safety selectors.
Who Should Buy Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector?
This safety selector is an excellent choice for AR platform owners looking for a significant upgrade in both aesthetics and function. It is particularly well-suited for builders undertaking custom projects or those seeking to replace an existing selector with a more robust and refined option. Shooters who appreciate high-quality machining and innovative design will find it a compelling addition.
Individuals who prioritize reliability and a solid, dependable feel for their firearm’s controls will benefit greatly. If you’ve experienced issues with standard safety selectors loosening or have a desire for a cleaner, more modern look, this unit is a strong contender. However, those on an extremely tight budget or who are perfectly content with basic mil-spec functionality might find it an unnecessary expense. For optimal use, ensure you have quality detent and spring components on hand.
Conclusion on Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector
The Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector is more than just an upgrade; it’s a testament to thoughtful engineering applied to a critical, often overlooked, component. Its RidgeKey locking mechanism is a genuine innovation, providing unparalleled security and eliminating common points of failure. The combination of 6061-T6 Aluminum and black nitride coated 4140 Steel ensures both durability and a premium feel.
While it commands a higher price than a standard safety selector, the value proposition is strong, considering the enhanced reliability, aesthetic improvements, and user customization offered by the 50 and 90-degree throw options. For anyone looking to refine their AR platform with a high-quality, dependable, and well-designed safety selector, the Fortis Manufacturing Super Lean Sport/SLS FIFTY Safety Selector comes with a strong recommendation. It provides a tangible improvement in user experience and adds a touch of class to any build.