Ambidextral AR15
Ambidextrous AR15 from Lower Up
Ambidextrous AR15 from Lower Up
The Ambidextral Gunfighter AR15 - Prelude: Why Ambidextrous?
Nine episodes in shorts to build the best possible Ambidextrous AR15 for the dynamically ambi Ambidextral Gunfighter.
An ambidextral gunfighter means a shooter who is fully and unconsciously making optimal use of cover by shouldering his personal defense weapon left or right handed. This gunfighter, if queried in the moment, will be hard pressed to express which hand he’s using. This dynamic ambidextrous shooting starts with “eliminating” eye dominance since either eye must readily pick up the sighting system.
We have a 7 episode playlist “How to Become an Ambidextral Gunfighter” see the link in the description.
What does the ambidextral gunfighter require? Perfect mirroring of the controls to take advantage of bilateral transfer of skill. Perfection means identically positioned controls. Controls that feel identical left or right. No gun is yet truly perfect. Especially on the AR platform. My favorite ambi mag release is the RDB, Favorite charging handle, Hellion, and bolt release, MDR. Safety, MDR, RDB, and the 45/90 safeties available for the AR. Bullpups CAN be exceptional ambi platforms. If the RDB had charging handles like the MDR or Hellion, I would not have circled back to look at making the AR ambidextrous.
Our Ambi Your AR video showed how to retrofit ambi controls on a standard AR. Lets look to furthering ambi “optimal use of cover” perfection. In the next episode we start with an AR15 ambi lower by Leapers…the UTG Pro Ambidextrous Lower.
In the meantime download the free booklet, The Ambidextral Gunfighter.
Nine episodes in shorts to build the best possible Ambidextrous AR15 for the dynamically ambi Ambidextral Gunfighter.
An ambidextral gunfighter means a shooter who is fully and unconsciously making optimal use of cover by shouldering his personal defense weapon left or right handed. This gunfighter, if queried in the moment, will be hard pressed to express which hand he’s using. This dynamic ambidextrous shooting starts with “eliminating” eye dominance since either eye must readily pick up the sighting system.
We have a 7 episode playlist “How to Become an Ambidextral Gunfighter” see the link in the description.
What does the ambidextral gunfighter require? Perfect mirroring of the controls to take advantage of bilateral transfer of skill. Perfection means identically positioned controls. Controls that feel identical left or right. No gun is yet truly perfect. Especially on the AR platform. My favorite ambi mag release is the RDB, Favorite charging handle, Hellion, and bolt release, MDR. Safety, MDR, RDB, and the 45/90 safeties available for the AR. Bullpups CAN be exceptional ambi platforms. If the RDB had charging handles like the MDR or Hellion, I would not have circled back to look at making the AR ambidextrous.
Our Ambi Your AR video showed how to retrofit ambi controls on a standard AR. Lets look to furthering ambi “optimal use of cover” perfection. In the next episode we start with an AR15 ambi lower by Leapers…the UTG Pro Ambidextrous Lower.
In the meantime download the free booklet, The Ambidextral Gunfighter.
Leapers UTG Pro Ambidextrous AR15 Lower
I am building an Ambidextral Gunfighter AR15 around the American made, Leapers UTG Pro full ambi lower.
The key ambi feature is the ambi bolt hold open and bolt release levers. A clever pedestal bolt catch design makes left and right side releases possible. However, the right side paddles are about ½” to the rear of the left side. So not perfectly mirrored…due to the need to clear the dust cover.
The left side bolt release reminds me of the Gieselle maritime bolt catch lever. For better separation from the mag release, I’d prefer the standard AR paddle with the tab bolt catch. If smacking the bolt release with the palm of your hand, the UTG Pro setup is close enough to perfect mirroring to work. However, The right side bolt hold open lever needs to more closely resemble the left side…with a ledge to help your finger get traction.
The magazine release is made ambi in the same way as the Arms Unlimited or Strike Industries ambi mag releases. The right side mag release is a bit stiff, reminds me of the MDR. On the left side, I think the spring tension could be a bit stiffer to reduce the risk of accidental mag disengagement. And I wish the right side mag release fence were mirrored a bit more on the left side.
The lightweight, skeletonized lower is beautifully designed with a Flared magwell, ambi trigger finger scoops, an integral glove compatible trigger guard, and includes a set screw to tighten the lower to upper lockup. Despite the added ambi hardware, It feels very light.
In the next episode we’ll install a trigger and an ambidextrous safety.
I am building an Ambidextral Gunfighter AR15 around the American made, Leapers UTG Pro full ambi lower.
The key ambi feature is the ambi bolt hold open and bolt release levers. A clever pedestal bolt catch design makes left and right side releases possible. However, the right side paddles are about ½” to the rear of the left side. So not perfectly mirrored…due to the need to clear the dust cover.
The left side bolt release reminds me of the Gieselle maritime bolt catch lever. For better separation from the mag release, I’d prefer the standard AR paddle with the tab bolt catch. If smacking the bolt release with the palm of your hand, the UTG Pro setup is close enough to perfect mirroring to work. However, The right side bolt hold open lever needs to more closely resemble the left side…with a ledge to help your finger get traction.
The magazine release is made ambi in the same way as the Arms Unlimited or Strike Industries ambi mag releases. The right side mag release is a bit stiff, reminds me of the MDR. On the left side, I think the spring tension could be a bit stiffer to reduce the risk of accidental mag disengagement. And I wish the right side mag release fence were mirrored a bit more on the left side.
The lightweight, skeletonized lower is beautifully designed with a Flared magwell, ambi trigger finger scoops, an integral glove compatible trigger guard, and includes a set screw to tighten the lower to upper lockup. Despite the added ambi hardware, It feels very light.
In the next episode we’ll install a trigger and an ambidextrous safety.
I installed a BCM PNT, Polished, nickel, teflon, trigger. Standard 6 poundish pull but very crisp. An excellent mil-spec trigger. It is possible, depending on how my ambi operation of the rifle turns out, that I might replace it with a Geissele SSA.
Safeties…Perfect, mirrored operation is required for the sake of bilateral transfer of skill…so the levers must be identical on each side…the same length and profile.
The 60 degree throw Strike Hex looks very similar to the BCM 90 degree ambi safety and it has both levers at the same length.
The 45 degree throw Radian and UTG safeties include a long and short lever. This might be fine for left OR right handed shooters, but not for the ambidextral gunfighter.
I do like how the Radian levers taper toward the rear, but ultimately during blind taste testing, I really have no significant preference between the three options when setup with equal length levers.
The Leapers UTG at $30 could be the most affordable option…until you have to buy two kits to get identical length levers. But watch for expanded offerings.
The Strike Hex at $40 with the identical length levers is the current bargain for the ambidextral gunfighter.
The Radian Talon, once you buy the 2 lever kit and an extra matching lever, is the most expensive at $75.
I’m running the UTG levers on the ambi build, but I’d be happy with any of these options.
Safeties…Perfect, mirrored operation is required for the sake of bilateral transfer of skill…so the levers must be identical on each side…the same length and profile.
The 60 degree throw Strike Hex looks very similar to the BCM 90 degree ambi safety and it has both levers at the same length.
The 45 degree throw Radian and UTG safeties include a long and short lever. This might be fine for left OR right handed shooters, but not for the ambidextral gunfighter.
I do like how the Radian levers taper toward the rear, but ultimately during blind taste testing, I really have no significant preference between the three options when setup with equal length levers.
The Leapers UTG at $30 could be the most affordable option…until you have to buy two kits to get identical length levers. But watch for expanded offerings.
The Strike Hex at $40 with the identical length levers is the current bargain for the ambidextral gunfighter.
The Radian Talon, once you buy the 2 lever kit and an extra matching lever, is the most expensive at $75.
I’m running the UTG levers on the ambi build, but I’d be happy with any of these options.
BCM PNT Trigger
(after using this trigger heavily with the Mantis BlackbeardX, I concluded that I wanted to more closely match the Geissele SSA-E on my RECCE, the RDB trigger, the BX triggers on my 10/22's, and the Tikka T1x trigger.)
(after using this trigger heavily with the Mantis BlackbeardX, I concluded that I wanted to more closely match the Geissele SSA-E on my RECCE, the RDB trigger, the BX triggers on my 10/22's, and the Tikka T1x trigger.)
There are really no ambi relevant standards that impact the choice of BCG. If a LH only shooter, get a LH upper and a LH BCG. A LH only shooter doesn't need Ambi…only the ambidextral gunfighter needs fully Ambi controls. Otherwise the added complexity isn't worth it.
To the extent that I’m a Bolt Carrier Group “expert” is the result of watching School of the American Rifle videos. I learned that A chrome lined cylinder wall is efficient.
BCM’s BCG is the blueprint crate motor of the AR world. And The Sons of Liberty Gun Works BCG strikes me as very similar, if not identical, to Bravo Company’s standard.
I started this Ambi project with a Toolcraft Nickel Boron BCG and I think it would have been adequate…certainly way better than the bolt in our Bear Creek AR. However after watching a video on BCG coatings I decided fuck it, get the SOLGW.
We’re early in the testing process, but so far the BCG has done its job perfectly…feeding rounds into the chamber, locking up with the barrel extension, igniting the cartridge, unlocking and extracting the empty case.
As part of going with a serious BCG, I also dropped in a Geissele SSA-E trigger.
Back in my motocross days, I once had a Honda CR250 with Fox Factory forks, fox shocks, and tricked out engine. The total was less than the sum of its parts. The Ambi AR build has surprised me, it’s more than the sum of its parts. Very pleased.
To the extent that I’m a Bolt Carrier Group “expert” is the result of watching School of the American Rifle videos. I learned that A chrome lined cylinder wall is efficient.
BCM’s BCG is the blueprint crate motor of the AR world. And The Sons of Liberty Gun Works BCG strikes me as very similar, if not identical, to Bravo Company’s standard.
I started this Ambi project with a Toolcraft Nickel Boron BCG and I think it would have been adequate…certainly way better than the bolt in our Bear Creek AR. However after watching a video on BCG coatings I decided fuck it, get the SOLGW.
We’re early in the testing process, but so far the BCG has done its job perfectly…feeding rounds into the chamber, locking up with the barrel extension, igniting the cartridge, unlocking and extracting the empty case.
As part of going with a serious BCG, I also dropped in a Geissele SSA-E trigger.
Back in my motocross days, I once had a Honda CR250 with Fox Factory forks, fox shocks, and tricked out engine. The total was less than the sum of its parts. The Ambi AR build has surprised me, it’s more than the sum of its parts. Very pleased.
The Faxon Gunner Barrel is a hybrid government and pencil profile.
I went with the 18” rifle length gas system with a 1-8 twist. At 1.6 pounds it’s pretty light, but more importantly with the tapered to pencil profile, the leveraged weight savings out near the muzzle is noticeable.
My RDB balances almost perfectly at the grip, whereas my BCM RECCE is muzzle heavy and displaces 671 grams. With the 18” Gunner barrel…I get the added 2” and yet remain 152 grams less muzzle weight than the BCM. Not balanced like my RDB, but the overall weight is 24 ounces lighter. (6.5 pounds vs 8)
This muzzle weight is important not just for holding the rifle one handed, but when transitioning from right to left and back, a balanced rifle’s muzzle will not lag behind. Here is an exaggerated example….balanced and the dowel rod moves left and right with no lag. But when the weight is out on the end, the “muzzle” falls off.
The Faxon button rifled barrel delivers excellent accuracy. Not chrome lined, but nitride inside and out. While I would prefer chrome lined on a cold hammer forged barrel, the Faxon Gunner appears to be an exceptional button rifled, chrome moly vanadium offering. And affordable enough to have a spare.
The Faxon Gunner barrel helps the ambi AR approach bullpup like balance.
In the next three episodes I’ll cover other balance efforts….gas block, muzzle device, and handguard.
I went with the 18” rifle length gas system with a 1-8 twist. At 1.6 pounds it’s pretty light, but more importantly with the tapered to pencil profile, the leveraged weight savings out near the muzzle is noticeable.
My RDB balances almost perfectly at the grip, whereas my BCM RECCE is muzzle heavy and displaces 671 grams. With the 18” Gunner barrel…I get the added 2” and yet remain 152 grams less muzzle weight than the BCM. Not balanced like my RDB, but the overall weight is 24 ounces lighter. (6.5 pounds vs 8)
This muzzle weight is important not just for holding the rifle one handed, but when transitioning from right to left and back, a balanced rifle’s muzzle will not lag behind. Here is an exaggerated example….balanced and the dowel rod moves left and right with no lag. But when the weight is out on the end, the “muzzle” falls off.
The Faxon button rifled barrel delivers excellent accuracy. Not chrome lined, but nitride inside and out. While I would prefer chrome lined on a cold hammer forged barrel, the Faxon Gunner appears to be an exceptional button rifled, chrome moly vanadium offering. And affordable enough to have a spare.
The Faxon Gunner barrel helps the ambi AR approach bullpup like balance.
In the next three episodes I’ll cover other balance efforts….gas block, muzzle device, and handguard.
Besides perfect mirroring of the controls, the AmbGun Ambi AR project is striving for balance similar to a bullpup rifle.
For an AR that means reducing weight at the muzzle. In the previous episode we championed the Falcon Gunner barrel.
Just before the Gunner transition to a pencil profile is the gas port. An adjustable gas block would be nice, but we're being very stingy with weight out on the lever that is the barrel.
The Samson Manufacturing Low Profile gas block is as tiny as they come and it only weighs 17 grams. Skeletonized steel with only one set screw securing it in place.
I used a SLR jig to create a shallow dimple to help locate that single screw. The jig positions the set screw directly across from the gas port. Using a jig, The gas block won’t necessarily set tight against the shoulder on the barrel. Given that the gas block port is about twice as large as the barrel port, you could shift it tight against the shoulder…I had about 1/100th of an inch gap.
Currently, I think the rifle is a bit overgassed. I will try adding an ounce to the buffer to tone it down a bit and thereby retain the simple, tiny, lightweight, low profile, almost invisible, Samson Micro Gas Block.
For an AR that means reducing weight at the muzzle. In the previous episode we championed the Falcon Gunner barrel.
Just before the Gunner transition to a pencil profile is the gas port. An adjustable gas block would be nice, but we're being very stingy with weight out on the lever that is the barrel.
The Samson Manufacturing Low Profile gas block is as tiny as they come and it only weighs 17 grams. Skeletonized steel with only one set screw securing it in place.
I used a SLR jig to create a shallow dimple to help locate that single screw. The jig positions the set screw directly across from the gas port. Using a jig, The gas block won’t necessarily set tight against the shoulder on the barrel. Given that the gas block port is about twice as large as the barrel port, you could shift it tight against the shoulder…I had about 1/100th of an inch gap.
Currently, I think the rifle is a bit overgassed. I will try adding an ounce to the buffer to tone it down a bit and thereby retain the simple, tiny, lightweight, low profile, almost invisible, Samson Micro Gas Block.
I really was not seeking a brake for the Ambi AR project, just something to protect the crown if I jam the muzzle in the dirt. I really liked the tiny, lightweight, Tactical Advantage FTS micro hybrid brake. Sadly, it appears they are no longer in business.
So I went looking for a replacement…found the JL Billet VPR (variable port recoil reduction) brake. The titanium version of the VPR is 37 grams lighter than their steel version. And despite being longer and having all of those ports at 49 grams it is still lighter than a standard 60 gram steel bird cage flash hider.
60 grams in your hand don't feel like much, but Try holding out a cleaning rod, then add a 2 ounce flash hider to the end of the rod. The leverage makes the added weight immediately noticeable.
Besides perfect ambi mirroring of the controls, the goal of the Ambi AR project is to create a rifle that makes ambi transitions as balanced as a bullpup rifle.
JL Billet brake, Faxon Gunner Barrel, Samson gas block, and a short Breek Arms handguard all play a role in this effort.
Like all brakes, the VPR won’t win you friends on the firing line with its redirected muzzle blast, but when looking at MantisX scores, I averaged a 99.15 with the brake and 98.23 without.
It is an absolutely beautiful piece of 5 axis CNC machining. I’d love to see JL Billet create their own version of the tiny FTS Micro Hybrid brake. I usually think of a muzzle device as an extension protecting the barrel crown. The JL Billette titanium brake is so gorgeous, maybe the rifle is there to protect it.
So I went looking for a replacement…found the JL Billet VPR (variable port recoil reduction) brake. The titanium version of the VPR is 37 grams lighter than their steel version. And despite being longer and having all of those ports at 49 grams it is still lighter than a standard 60 gram steel bird cage flash hider.
60 grams in your hand don't feel like much, but Try holding out a cleaning rod, then add a 2 ounce flash hider to the end of the rod. The leverage makes the added weight immediately noticeable.
Besides perfect ambi mirroring of the controls, the goal of the Ambi AR project is to create a rifle that makes ambi transitions as balanced as a bullpup rifle.
JL Billet brake, Faxon Gunner Barrel, Samson gas block, and a short Breek Arms handguard all play a role in this effort.
Like all brakes, the VPR won’t win you friends on the firing line with its redirected muzzle blast, but when looking at MantisX scores, I averaged a 99.15 with the brake and 98.23 without.
It is an absolutely beautiful piece of 5 axis CNC machining. I’d love to see JL Billet create their own version of the tiny FTS Micro Hybrid brake. I usually think of a muzzle device as an extension protecting the barrel crown. The JL Billette titanium brake is so gorgeous, maybe the rifle is there to protect it.
There are lots of different handguards available for the AR.
I chose the Breek Arms 11.7” RG2 Mlok Handguard. I went with Breek Arms because I really like their charging handles. And continuing with the Faxon Barrel, Samson gas block, and JL Billet VPR brake theme of saving weight, I chose the relatively short 11.7” handguard to reduce weight out toward the muzzle. And…to show off the tiny Samson gas block.
Same for a preference for keeping lots of clutter off the handguard…I like to keep lights, bipods, lasers, etc, off the rifle and in a pouch…until needed.
Moreover, since I’m not a huge extended support arm, c-clamp fan, I just don’t need that extra handguard length. In my opinion this technique is an anomaly arising from the stopwatch obsessed, run n gun competitions. Yes, be fast between cover. But when behind cover be patient and make ambi optimal use of cover with elbows tucked in tight. I am certain that a paintball team trained running stopwatch shooting mazes would get crushed by a team that is trained for ambi that communicates and patiently coordinates movement.
“Strategy without tactics is slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is noise before defeat. “
“Str-ah-teh-jee without tack-ticks is slo-o-est route to vic-to-ree. Tac-ticks without Str-ah-teh-jee is no-oise before de-fe-at”
I fear Americans are making lots of noise.
The Breek Arms RG2-S handguard has MLok at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. In between are large cutouts to save weight and aid airflow around the barrel.
The RG2 wedge block locking system mounted solidly with the included steel 1 ¼” barrel nut, And since I run my ACOG relatively far forward, the handguard is further prevented from rotating by the Shaffer no snag mount. I don’t see the need of anti-rotation pins.
I upgraded to their 7075 aluminum barrel nut saving two ounces…further reducing the muzzle displacement weight.
The Breek Arms hardguard is supremely affordable and I do not feel like I’m missing out on something better. I’ve mounted and removed a bipod, a sling QD, a pic rail, and the Viridian 4LUX 2K Duo. The RG2 does its job and feels good in the hand. Maybe it's time to replace the old Keymod handguard on my iron sights BCM …get the front sight out near the muzzle with a Breek Arms 15” handguard.
I chose the Breek Arms 11.7” RG2 Mlok Handguard. I went with Breek Arms because I really like their charging handles. And continuing with the Faxon Barrel, Samson gas block, and JL Billet VPR brake theme of saving weight, I chose the relatively short 11.7” handguard to reduce weight out toward the muzzle. And…to show off the tiny Samson gas block.
Same for a preference for keeping lots of clutter off the handguard…I like to keep lights, bipods, lasers, etc, off the rifle and in a pouch…until needed.
Moreover, since I’m not a huge extended support arm, c-clamp fan, I just don’t need that extra handguard length. In my opinion this technique is an anomaly arising from the stopwatch obsessed, run n gun competitions. Yes, be fast between cover. But when behind cover be patient and make ambi optimal use of cover with elbows tucked in tight. I am certain that a paintball team trained running stopwatch shooting mazes would get crushed by a team that is trained for ambi that communicates and patiently coordinates movement.
“Strategy without tactics is slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is noise before defeat. “
“Str-ah-teh-jee without tack-ticks is slo-o-est route to vic-to-ree. Tac-ticks without Str-ah-teh-jee is no-oise before de-fe-at”
I fear Americans are making lots of noise.
The Breek Arms RG2-S handguard has MLok at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. In between are large cutouts to save weight and aid airflow around the barrel.
The RG2 wedge block locking system mounted solidly with the included steel 1 ¼” barrel nut, And since I run my ACOG relatively far forward, the handguard is further prevented from rotating by the Shaffer no snag mount. I don’t see the need of anti-rotation pins.
I upgraded to their 7075 aluminum barrel nut saving two ounces…further reducing the muzzle displacement weight.
The Breek Arms hardguard is supremely affordable and I do not feel like I’m missing out on something better. I’ve mounted and removed a bipod, a sling QD, a pic rail, and the Viridian 4LUX 2K Duo. The RG2 does its job and feels good in the hand. Maybe it's time to replace the old Keymod handguard on my iron sights BCM …get the front sight out near the muzzle with a Breek Arms 15” handguard.
Mission First Tactical BattleLink Buttstock Minuteman Reviewhttps://youtube.com/shorts/9_kieEGwgUg
Inside of Geissele’s 7075 T6 buffer tube is their Super 42 spring made of three strands of wire…more reliable less twang. Atop it sits an H1 buffer. Castle nut left unstaked until I dial in proper buffer weight.
Geissele should have included a sling qd end plate. I installed a BCM end plate with QD for testing purposes.
However, I really don’t need the BCM end plate since I’m running the Mission First Tactical BattleLink buttstock which has an ambi friendly QD socket. I do like how the castle nut acts as a rotation limiter for the BCM QD, but I prefer how the Battlelink positions the sling qd 2-3 inches further to the rear. Now if MFT would just add a limiter…stopping the Sling a perfectly mirrored 45 degrees to the left and to right.
I’m also running the BCM KD shorty grip. I thought maybe I’d prefer a full length grip for ambi transitions,…nope, still prefer the Kyle DeFoor grip. I just don’t lean on the grip that much.
The key ambi issue with regard to AR uppers is the forward assist. I don’t like the forward assist. Give me Ultra Tactical Gear as Eugene Stoner intended.
Forward Assist really interferes with perfect mirroring access to the charging handle. And it can trap your fingers…particularly when doing a two finger, over the top chamber check. Maybe even break a nail. The forward assist is a hook that’ll snag on all sorts of gear and I suspect it just might cause as many malfunctions as it solves….the potential of injecting interference of the bolt’s cycle. Needless weight, width, and complexity.
My ambi ambition was to go with a slick upper…an upper with no forward assist. Just a case deflector.
Leapers sent me their 7075-T6 billet UTG Pro Ambi receiver set. It looks so good that I was reconsidering my slick upper ambition. Leapers then sent a prototype upper that has the forward assist shifted toward the muzzle about 2 inches…but otherwise identical.
I call their prototype the UTG Pro MKx…as it reminds me of BCM’s MK2 upper.
This greatly improves the ambi access to the charging handle and eliminates the pinch trap when you’re Under the Gun.
It’s not perfect ambi, but maybe a decent compromise given how my options for third party slick uppers just won’t look as cool with the gorgeous made in the USA UTG Pro ambi lower.
Please release the UTG Pro Mkx upper as well as a slick version of the UTG Pro upper.
For a long time I thought of Leapers as a third rate accessory company. The UTG Pro line has leapfrogged them to top tier status. No doubt the result of the owner’s immersion in American gun culture.
Forward Assist really interferes with perfect mirroring access to the charging handle. And it can trap your fingers…particularly when doing a two finger, over the top chamber check. Maybe even break a nail. The forward assist is a hook that’ll snag on all sorts of gear and I suspect it just might cause as many malfunctions as it solves….the potential of injecting interference of the bolt’s cycle. Needless weight, width, and complexity.
My ambi ambition was to go with a slick upper…an upper with no forward assist. Just a case deflector.
Leapers sent me their 7075-T6 billet UTG Pro Ambi receiver set. It looks so good that I was reconsidering my slick upper ambition. Leapers then sent a prototype upper that has the forward assist shifted toward the muzzle about 2 inches…but otherwise identical.
I call their prototype the UTG Pro MKx…as it reminds me of BCM’s MK2 upper.
This greatly improves the ambi access to the charging handle and eliminates the pinch trap when you’re Under the Gun.
It’s not perfect ambi, but maybe a decent compromise given how my options for third party slick uppers just won’t look as cool with the gorgeous made in the USA UTG Pro ambi lower.
Please release the UTG Pro Mkx upper as well as a slick version of the UTG Pro upper.
For a long time I thought of Leapers as a third rate accessory company. The UTG Pro line has leapfrogged them to top tier status. No doubt the result of the owner’s immersion in American gun culture.
The most popular “ambi” upgrade is the charging handle. It’s the easiest upgrade. I've used a few popular ambi charging handles…Geissele, BCM and my favorite is the Breek Arms Warhammer including their micro version. I like the full size for a standard forward assist upper and the micro for the MK2 style and slick uppers.
I like the Geissele and BCM offerings very much, but I do have a slight preference for the Breek Arms Warhammer with its 4mm reduction in height…this gives my nose a little more breathing room when shooting prone tight up behind the sight. (11.65mm vs 7.51mm)
This reduction in vertical height saves 7 grams over the BCM ambi charging handle. 8 grams for the Warhammer micro.
However this does mean a bit less surface area for your hand when running the charging handle. If you don’t wear gloves or are attending a long training course you might find the BCM or Geissele a bit more comfortable.
All are built with 7075 T6 aluminum. All with a lip to redirect back pressure gasses away from your face. However the Breek Arms Warhammer will save you about $50 compared to big name brands.
I like the Geissele and BCM offerings very much, but I do have a slight preference for the Breek Arms Warhammer with its 4mm reduction in height…this gives my nose a little more breathing room when shooting prone tight up behind the sight. (11.65mm vs 7.51mm)
This reduction in vertical height saves 7 grams over the BCM ambi charging handle. 8 grams for the Warhammer micro.
However this does mean a bit less surface area for your hand when running the charging handle. If you don’t wear gloves or are attending a long training course you might find the BCM or Geissele a bit more comfortable.
All are built with 7075 T6 aluminum. All with a lip to redirect back pressure gasses away from your face. However the Breek Arms Warhammer will save you about $50 compared to big name brands.
Trijicon TA31F ACOG
The chevron reticle is illuminated by Tritium and fiber optic capture. The fiber optic can funnel in too much light…the crude solution is electrical tape, the elegant is the Shaffer adjustable fiber optic cover.
Zero at the bottom of the chevron at 25 yards, check the tip at 100, then back to the bottom of the chevron for 300 then the first stadia for 400.
The prism optic’s 1.5” eye relief does require getting your eye up close, but once there you’re in an immersive hyper reality. Super bright, crisp, and clear. For the ambidextrous shooter, the ambidextral gunfighter, be sure to check out the AmbGun video on Bindon Aiming Concept.
Expensive, but consider that it includes the mount…no rings needed. The king of durability, yet extremely light compared to illuminated LPVO’s.
I despise the giant mounting nuts, Snag hazard. And an ambi obstruction, especially on bullpup rifles. Remove the nuts, cut back the studs and use 5mm .8 pitch steel flange nuts to slim the profile. or…See our review of the snag free ACOG mount from Shaffer Machining…Shaffer Machining eliminates the snaggy and sticky.
While Attending a Project Appleseed Known Distance event, we completed an around the squares/return to zero test and the ACOG performed perfectly…and I also earned my KD patch that day.
Learn to be ambi with a red dot then switch to the 4x ACOG for Bindon Aiming Concept magic. TA31F ACOG, Decades in production, but definitely my favorite magnified rifle scope.
The chevron reticle is illuminated by Tritium and fiber optic capture. The fiber optic can funnel in too much light…the crude solution is electrical tape, the elegant is the Shaffer adjustable fiber optic cover.
Zero at the bottom of the chevron at 25 yards, check the tip at 100, then back to the bottom of the chevron for 300 then the first stadia for 400.
The prism optic’s 1.5” eye relief does require getting your eye up close, but once there you’re in an immersive hyper reality. Super bright, crisp, and clear. For the ambidextrous shooter, the ambidextral gunfighter, be sure to check out the AmbGun video on Bindon Aiming Concept.
Expensive, but consider that it includes the mount…no rings needed. The king of durability, yet extremely light compared to illuminated LPVO’s.
I despise the giant mounting nuts, Snag hazard. And an ambi obstruction, especially on bullpup rifles. Remove the nuts, cut back the studs and use 5mm .8 pitch steel flange nuts to slim the profile. or…See our review of the snag free ACOG mount from Shaffer Machining…Shaffer Machining eliminates the snaggy and sticky.
While Attending a Project Appleseed Known Distance event, we completed an around the squares/return to zero test and the ACOG performed perfectly…and I also earned my KD patch that day.
Learn to be ambi with a red dot then switch to the 4x ACOG for Bindon Aiming Concept magic. TA31F ACOG, Decades in production, but definitely my favorite magnified rifle scope.
A subscriber sent me the Battle Arms Bad Ass Lite 45/90 safety levers. And with Cabelas bucks, I landed a set of the 60/90 MagPul ESKs.
I love how the levers are secured on the Battle Arms and hoped to use the OD green levers with the new test and review ODG iron sights from Shaffer. But I found the safety cylinder was longer than any others I’ve tried, leaving a large gap between the lever and the lower. Terrific option if you had a thicker than normal lower. I’ll definitely revisit Battle Arms if they offer a conventional width cylinder.
I was really excited for the MagPul ESK, too, since it includes one short and two long levers. I thought “finally, someone accommodating the ambidextral gunfighter with the option of perfectly mirrored levers.”
The ESK polymer levers are secured with a unique keyed interface and polymer retaining pin. It LOOKs weak, but I presume it will prove MagPul reliable. I do think a 60 degree throw makes for a longer detent pin to safety barrel lifespan. Most 45 degree throws don’t have quite enough meat between detent stops to expect a long lifespan.
However, after getting the ESK installed, I was puzzled…why am I getting inconsistent results left handed vs right handed. Then I noticed that one of the long levers was tapered…not at all like the other long lever. This may be a good solution for those who are right handed OR left handed, but is not acceptable for the ambidextral gunfighter’s unconscious bilateral transfer of skill.
I could buy another set of MagPul ESK’s to have identical levers, but given the already premium price, I just could not “Ambidextral Gunfighter” endorse the MagPul ESK.
Since, for me, the safety is by far the most used control…using it multiple of times per magazine, I dejectedly removed the MagPul ESK and reverted back to the UTG ambi lever. I am considering another premium option where you can secure identical length levers. A Forthcoming episode on ambi safeties.
I love how the levers are secured on the Battle Arms and hoped to use the OD green levers with the new test and review ODG iron sights from Shaffer. But I found the safety cylinder was longer than any others I’ve tried, leaving a large gap between the lever and the lower. Terrific option if you had a thicker than normal lower. I’ll definitely revisit Battle Arms if they offer a conventional width cylinder.
I was really excited for the MagPul ESK, too, since it includes one short and two long levers. I thought “finally, someone accommodating the ambidextral gunfighter with the option of perfectly mirrored levers.”
The ESK polymer levers are secured with a unique keyed interface and polymer retaining pin. It LOOKs weak, but I presume it will prove MagPul reliable. I do think a 60 degree throw makes for a longer detent pin to safety barrel lifespan. Most 45 degree throws don’t have quite enough meat between detent stops to expect a long lifespan.
However, after getting the ESK installed, I was puzzled…why am I getting inconsistent results left handed vs right handed. Then I noticed that one of the long levers was tapered…not at all like the other long lever. This may be a good solution for those who are right handed OR left handed, but is not acceptable for the ambidextral gunfighter’s unconscious bilateral transfer of skill.
I could buy another set of MagPul ESK’s to have identical levers, but given the already premium price, I just could not “Ambidextral Gunfighter” endorse the MagPul ESK.
Since, for me, the safety is by far the most used control…using it multiple of times per magazine, I dejectedly removed the MagPul ESK and reverted back to the UTG ambi lever. I am considering another premium option where you can secure identical length levers. A Forthcoming episode on ambi safeties.
KAK Handguard Deflection Study
My recent comparison of carry handle irons vs ACOG I found that I could score almost as well on an AQT with irons.
The excellent PSA Carry handle sight is needlessly heavy though…just don't need the carry part.
So I started looking for a high quality, fixed irons package.
Shaffer Machining’s 6061 aluminum front and rear fixed irons are 11 ounces lighter than the ACOG and even less top heavy…tippy. And 9 ounces lighter than the carry handle/a2 front sight setup
With these sights, my UTG Pro ambi AR drops below 6 pounds. Less mass for ambi transitions and snap shooting. It is very noticeable.
The $190 Shaffer sights als save about $1300 compared to the ACOG.
So weight savings and cost savings are significant
Consider the opportunity cost for each…more money for ammo and training. Weight savings means another mag of ammo in your loadout.
The Shaffer sights are beautifully manufactured but there are alternatives…Troy, Larue, and Scalarworks
Scalarworks went with 7075-T6 on their Peak/01 sights. 1.4 ounces lighter, but they do lighten your wallet $68 more than the Shaffer sights.
88% of the weight savings for 73% the cost is a good place to be in the quality irons market.
We do give up the click adjustable elevation wheel of the carry handle sight. I kind of miss it, but without it there is a simple battle sight zero guideline.
Room clearing dead on using just the front sight shroud.100 yards aim for belt buckle/belly button for center of mass hit200-300 yards, point of aim and impact pretty close 400 yards aim at head for center of mass hit.
My friends at Leapers sent me one of their UTG Super Slim fixed rear sights that have the click adjustable elevation wheel, but like the Taiwanese made carry handle sights the detents are too indistinct.
An American made or a UTG Pro version, will be a winner for those who want to retain the click adjustable elevation wheel.
The Shaffer irons sights mounted beautifully on our UTG Pro based Ambi AR project rifle. The rear atop the receiver, the front out at the end of the Breek Arms handguard. I started off zeroing right handed and found that I had to max out the windage all the way left. Merited investigation. The sights were obviously properly mounted. Then I noticed that the barrel was not precisely centered in the handguard.
A bit of research and I found the KAK handguard deflection test . It seems they tested four handguards and it was quite normal to see a 5+ MOA deflection. This works out to about 2/100th’s of an inch at the end of the handguard or about 5” at 100 yards or 10” at 200.
I suspect the majority of the flex is in the link up between the handguard and barrel nut.
Since I routinely sink into a loop sling both left and right handed with the forward sling QD mounted out at the end of the handguard…well, This looks about as smart as doing lead sled load testing atop a portable plastic table.
A scan of iron sight service rifle competitors, I do not see anyone using irons mounted on the handguard…seems all are using an A2 barrel mounted front sight gas block.
So…I picked up an F height A2 FSB from BCM. Drilled and tapped for 10-32 threads for set screw mounting. Added a second dimple in the gas block journal, mounted the FSB to the barrel, and removed the Shaffer handguard mounted sight. Contrary to reports that FSB’s are soft and easy to drill…That BCM FSB was a challenge to drill, but presumably the threads will endure. I ended up cutting off the bayonet lug when the smallest of my starter bits broke off. I should have cut off the sling yoke while I was at it.
Word on the internet is that using set screws is not as strong as the tapered pins. I’d sure like to see a scientific test of that claim.
I can detect the added weight of the FSB, but it’s well worth it for the additional 3 ½” of sight radius over the handguard mounted front sight. Overall 20” sight radius.
If you’re looking for irons as your primary AR sighting system, I’d go with the Shaffer rear sight paired with a BCM A2 FSB. I really do not understand why anyone would spend top dollar for a beautiful Shaffer or ScalarWorks front sight only to mount it on the AR handguard…other rifles with a monolithic rail, sure, but not on a 5 MOA flexy handguard.
I am VERY happy with my Shaffer rear sight and BCM front sight. Lots of sight radius in a featherweight system. And it handles blowing snow better than optics…no frost on the lens, snow in the peep, just blow it clear.
My recent comparison of carry handle irons vs ACOG I found that I could score almost as well on an AQT with irons.
The excellent PSA Carry handle sight is needlessly heavy though…just don't need the carry part.
So I started looking for a high quality, fixed irons package.
Shaffer Machining’s 6061 aluminum front and rear fixed irons are 11 ounces lighter than the ACOG and even less top heavy…tippy. And 9 ounces lighter than the carry handle/a2 front sight setup
With these sights, my UTG Pro ambi AR drops below 6 pounds. Less mass for ambi transitions and snap shooting. It is very noticeable.
The $190 Shaffer sights als save about $1300 compared to the ACOG.
So weight savings and cost savings are significant
Consider the opportunity cost for each…more money for ammo and training. Weight savings means another mag of ammo in your loadout.
The Shaffer sights are beautifully manufactured but there are alternatives…Troy, Larue, and Scalarworks
Scalarworks went with 7075-T6 on their Peak/01 sights. 1.4 ounces lighter, but they do lighten your wallet $68 more than the Shaffer sights.
88% of the weight savings for 73% the cost is a good place to be in the quality irons market.
We do give up the click adjustable elevation wheel of the carry handle sight. I kind of miss it, but without it there is a simple battle sight zero guideline.
Room clearing dead on using just the front sight shroud.100 yards aim for belt buckle/belly button for center of mass hit200-300 yards, point of aim and impact pretty close 400 yards aim at head for center of mass hit.
My friends at Leapers sent me one of their UTG Super Slim fixed rear sights that have the click adjustable elevation wheel, but like the Taiwanese made carry handle sights the detents are too indistinct.
An American made or a UTG Pro version, will be a winner for those who want to retain the click adjustable elevation wheel.
The Shaffer irons sights mounted beautifully on our UTG Pro based Ambi AR project rifle. The rear atop the receiver, the front out at the end of the Breek Arms handguard. I started off zeroing right handed and found that I had to max out the windage all the way left. Merited investigation. The sights were obviously properly mounted. Then I noticed that the barrel was not precisely centered in the handguard.
A bit of research and I found the KAK handguard deflection test . It seems they tested four handguards and it was quite normal to see a 5+ MOA deflection. This works out to about 2/100th’s of an inch at the end of the handguard or about 5” at 100 yards or 10” at 200.
I suspect the majority of the flex is in the link up between the handguard and barrel nut.
Since I routinely sink into a loop sling both left and right handed with the forward sling QD mounted out at the end of the handguard…well, This looks about as smart as doing lead sled load testing atop a portable plastic table.
A scan of iron sight service rifle competitors, I do not see anyone using irons mounted on the handguard…seems all are using an A2 barrel mounted front sight gas block.
So…I picked up an F height A2 FSB from BCM. Drilled and tapped for 10-32 threads for set screw mounting. Added a second dimple in the gas block journal, mounted the FSB to the barrel, and removed the Shaffer handguard mounted sight. Contrary to reports that FSB’s are soft and easy to drill…That BCM FSB was a challenge to drill, but presumably the threads will endure. I ended up cutting off the bayonet lug when the smallest of my starter bits broke off. I should have cut off the sling yoke while I was at it.
Word on the internet is that using set screws is not as strong as the tapered pins. I’d sure like to see a scientific test of that claim.
I can detect the added weight of the FSB, but it’s well worth it for the additional 3 ½” of sight radius over the handguard mounted front sight. Overall 20” sight radius.
If you’re looking for irons as your primary AR sighting system, I’d go with the Shaffer rear sight paired with a BCM A2 FSB. I really do not understand why anyone would spend top dollar for a beautiful Shaffer or ScalarWorks front sight only to mount it on the AR handguard…other rifles with a monolithic rail, sure, but not on a 5 MOA flexy handguard.
I am VERY happy with my Shaffer rear sight and BCM front sight. Lots of sight radius in a featherweight system. And it handles blowing snow better than optics…no frost on the lens, snow in the peep, just blow it clear.
Like all of the Shaffer Machining products I’ve reviewed, their Weapon Light Mount is a work of art. Awesome design, precision machined, and beautifully finished.
Available in MLok and Picatinny versions custom designed for many specific lights (Surefire, Streamlight, OLight, and Zbolt). it will clear most back up irons even when side mounted. I am running their “generic” 1” MLok version mounted on the bottom of the Breek Arms handguard of my iron sighted UTG Pro ambi AR.
Mounted underneath and well forward, it positions the lamp between the front sight and muzzle. This allows my Klarus XT11GT to illuminate the target and really adds definition for my front sight in low light conditions. That is, the front sight isn’t washed out behind a 3300 lumen flare. If running an optic, I might shift the light a bit rearward.
I really like the steel cup sling QD with rotation stops that are limited rotation a mirrored 15 degrees to either side of the centerline. I’d love to have this in a standalone sling QD.
While I typically prefer the InForce WML with its integrated pic rail quick detach, I so like the awesome rotation limited sling QD and the how Shaffer’s mount lets me position the light between the front sight and muzzle, I’m tempted to keep it onboard my lightweight Ambi AR….despite putting weight out toward the muzzle. But I think ultimately, it will find a home on my bedside RDB.
So now I’m running the Shaffer Machining ACOG mount, the Shaffer Fiber Optic Cover, the Shaffer fixed rear sight, and the Shaffer 1” weapon light mount.
4 products implemented in a span of six months. I guess there’s no escaping the Shaffer Machining Shill label…I must avoid their web page for fear of what else might catch my eye. You should check out Shaffer Machining.
Available in MLok and Picatinny versions custom designed for many specific lights (Surefire, Streamlight, OLight, and Zbolt). it will clear most back up irons even when side mounted. I am running their “generic” 1” MLok version mounted on the bottom of the Breek Arms handguard of my iron sighted UTG Pro ambi AR.
Mounted underneath and well forward, it positions the lamp between the front sight and muzzle. This allows my Klarus XT11GT to illuminate the target and really adds definition for my front sight in low light conditions. That is, the front sight isn’t washed out behind a 3300 lumen flare. If running an optic, I might shift the light a bit rearward.
I really like the steel cup sling QD with rotation stops that are limited rotation a mirrored 15 degrees to either side of the centerline. I’d love to have this in a standalone sling QD.
While I typically prefer the InForce WML with its integrated pic rail quick detach, I so like the awesome rotation limited sling QD and the how Shaffer’s mount lets me position the light between the front sight and muzzle, I’m tempted to keep it onboard my lightweight Ambi AR….despite putting weight out toward the muzzle. But I think ultimately, it will find a home on my bedside RDB.
So now I’m running the Shaffer Machining ACOG mount, the Shaffer Fiber Optic Cover, the Shaffer fixed rear sight, and the Shaffer 1” weapon light mount.
4 products implemented in a span of six months. I guess there’s no escaping the Shaffer Machining Shill label…I must avoid their web page for fear of what else might catch my eye. You should check out Shaffer Machining.
Retro Fit Ambi Controls on Your AR
Retro Fit Ambi Controls on Your AR
ARs, like this Blackout Quantum Dual Taper, that have eliminated the forward assist are ideal for the Ambidextral Gunfighter.
Parts to Ambi Your AR for "Optimal Use of Cover"
Parts to Ambi Your AR for "Optimal Use of Cover"
Palmetto State Armory
Palmetto State Armory
Radian Raptor Ambidextrous Charging Handle. Best when used with upper without Forward Assist.
Radian Talon 45/90 Ambidextrous Safety Awesome ambi and 45 degree throw.
Strike Industries Ambidextrous Magazine Release. Adequate ambi mag release.
Brownells
Brownells
A True Ambi AR
A True Ambi AR
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Ambidextrous "optimal use of cover", optimal use of terrain for steady hold factors.Training the brain so that both the left and right eye can pick up the sighting system. Perfectly mirrored controls for unconscious, bilateral transfer of skill. operation both left and right handed.
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Some of our posts at AmbGun.com contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission. Clicking on an affiliate link which earns a commission does not result in additional charges to you or cost you anything extra. Mentions of associated products within the content of AmbGun.com may not be noted as an affiliate in every referrence. Money earned via affiliate links helps keep the AmbGun web site and video production up and running. AmbGun hopes that you'd prefer that our efforts earn a commission rather than bypassing our affiliate links and simply adding to the bottom line of large marketers like Amazon.com
Ambidextrous "optimal use of cover", optimal use of terrain for steady hold factors.Training the brain so that both the left and right eye can pick up the sighting system. Perfectly mirrored controls for unconscious, bilateral transfer of skill. operation both left and right handed.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some of our posts at AmbGun.com contain affiliate links. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission. Clicking on an affiliate link which earns a commission does not result in additional charges to you or cost you anything extra. Mentions of associated products within the content of AmbGun.com may not be noted as an affiliate in every referrence. Money earned via affiliate links helps keep the AmbGun web site and video production up and running. AmbGun hopes that you'd prefer that our efforts earn a commission rather than bypassing our affiliate links and simply adding to the bottom line of large marketers like Amazon.com