The Forward Controls Design ASF
The Forward Controls Design ASF, which stands for Ambidextrous Selector Forward Controls, is a high-end safety selector designed for AR-15 and M16 pattern rifles with a focus on duty-grade reliability, ergonomic refinement, and long-term durability. It is produced by Forward Controls Design in collaboration with Sons of Liberty Gun Works, and it reflects a philosophy that prioritizes function and mechanical integrity over cost reduction or lightweight construction. The ASF is widely regarded in the professional and enthusiast communities as a premium alternative to more commercially oriented ambidextrous selectors.
The ASF is constructed entirely from steel, which is one of its defining characteristics. Both the selector shaft and the levers are machined from hardened steel rather than aluminum or polymer. This choice of material gives the selector exceptional resistance to wear, deformation, and impact stress. The steel construction also ensures consistent engagement with the fire control detent over long-term use, even under harsh conditions such as high round counts, exposure to debris, or limited maintenance environments. The levers are secured using high-strength roll pins, which act as retention elements rather than load-bearing components, contributing to the overall structural integrity of the system.
In terms of dimensions and configuration, the ASF is designed with modularity in mind while maintaining a compact and streamlined profile. It is offered in both standard 90-degree and reduced-throw 50-degree variants. The 90-degree version follows the traditional AR safety arc, while the 50-degree version reduces the throw distance, allowing faster transitions between safe and fire positions. The levers are available in different lengths, typically including long and short options, which can be mixed on either side of the receiver depending on user preference. The short lever is slightly widened to preserve sufficient surface area for positive engagement despite its reduced length. This attention to proportional balance ensures that the selector remains intuitive and easy to manipulate regardless of configuration.
The ASF also includes an offset lever option commonly referred to as the “Q” lever. This design shifts the engagement surface closer to the shooter’s thumb when the rifle is in the fire position, improving accessibility during rapid manipulation. The selector body itself is precisely machined to maintain tight tolerances, resulting in a very crisp and tactile detent engagement. While exact measurements vary slightly depending on configuration, the ASF is dimensionally consistent with standard AR-15 selector specifications, ensuring compatibility with mil-spec lower receivers.
Versatility is a major strength of the ASF system. It supports fully ambidextrous operation, allowing users to configure it for right-handed, left-handed, or mirrored setups. The interchangeable levers allow customization of reach, leverage, and tactile feel. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from professional military and law enforcement use to civilian defensive rifles and competition builds. The availability of both standard and short-throw variants further enhances its adaptability, enabling users to tailor selector speed and motion to training doctrine or personal preference.
Durability is one of the ASF’s most emphasized attributes. The all-steel construction ensures that it can withstand repeated mechanical stress without developing looseness or play. The machining tolerances are intentionally tight, which prevents wobble and maintains consistent detent pressure over time. The roll-pin retention system has been engineered to resist shear forces, ensuring that the levers remain securely attached even under heavy use. The overall design reflects a philosophy of mechanical redundancy and overbuilt strength, making it suitable for environments where equipment failure is not acceptable.
The materials used in the ASF are straightforward but carefully selected. The body and levers are made from hardened steel, while the retention hardware uses high-strength steel pins. There are no polymer or aluminum structural components, which distinguishes it from many competing selectors that rely on lighter materials to reduce cost or weight. The finish is typically a durable coating designed to resist corrosion and wear while maintaining a low-reflective appearance suitable for tactical use.
In terms of value, the ASF sits at the higher end of the market. Its price reflects its material quality, machining precision, and durability rather than mass production efficiency. While it is more expensive than many standard ambidextrous selectors, users often justify the cost based on its longevity, tactile quality, and consistent performance under stress. It is not designed as a budget upgrade but rather as a long-term component intended to match the durability expectations of professional-grade rifle systems.
The Forward Controls Design ASF can be located at Brownells:
https://alnk.to/4BKj7A2
