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Thank you gents for your kind words :)
Without sounding like we're trying to pimp our product (the 45 degree short throw), the short throw selector is what we think it should have been all along.
Many platforms from decades ago have been using this arrangement, we never did find out why Gene Stoner went to a 90 degree, we can guess but can't back up our theories.
HK, FN, SIG and other manufacturers have been using it for a long time. For the AR platform it seems like a radical departure but it really isn't, as the concept isn't new and isn't ours, we just happen to take the step to make it and bring it to market, while others may have made it but never brought it to market.
There aren't a great deal of reasons the throw should be 90 degrees. The original goal for the 45 degree selector was to shorten the throw to make the selector faster in action, it also has the advantage of being accessible by the thumb without shifting grips. A flick of the tip of the thumb, and the weapon is on Safe. For those that are used to riding the selector (on a 1911, for instance), the 45 selector arrangement is intuitive and natural. For those handling it for the first time, the typical reaction is they don't want to go back to the 90 degree :p
This year there will be three or four manufacturers that will produce receivers compatible with both the 45 and 90 degree selector. It is our intention to make the 45 degree arrangement a viable and valid option on receivers, much like all the handguards, stocks, pistol grips, all options that make the weapon more usable and user friendly :)
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On speaking with the instructor during the class, he said what you guys have been saying, which was try a smaller grip or shave down the MOE.
I worked with my other AR, with has a standard grip, and there were no issues with manipulating the safety what so ever. The Magpul MOE is a bigger grip, but not huge, as evidenced when placing the guns side by side. It fills your hand more, and moves your trigger finger further back, which I really like.
For me the MOE feels great in my hand while shooting, and just generally holding onto the gun, even one handed. The 45 degree safety is looking better and better, in that it apparently gives you the ability to select the grip you like the best, while eliminating any potential issues you may have while operating the safety.
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I have never had a problem manipulating the safety from "safe"to "fire" even with the MOE grip. From "fire"to "safe"....Yes, I have to move my grip hand off the grip to use my thumb to snap the safety from fire to safe. My hand is partially coming off the grip but as I am holding the rifle with my other hand as well it has not been a problem. Its fast but a little awkward. MOE grip is very comfortable and does not impair manipulation of the safety in either direction.