.png)
AR-15 / AR-9
AR-15
Super Safety Installation Requirements
Before installing a super safety, there are a few critical components and checks that must be completed to ensure proper function.
​
Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) Requirement
A full-auto rated BCG is required.
This is necessary due to the larger rear lug on a full-auto BCG, which is what makes proper contact with the super safety lever. A standard semi-auto BCG may not provide sufficient engagement and can lead to improper function.
See image below for comparison.
Lower Receiver Shelf Inspection
A Low Shelf is required.
There are multiple common shelf styles (shown in the reference images). While all of them can potentially work, even with modification, it is heavily recommended to have a "low shelf" or "no shelf".
Low shelf - Look at the hole for your selector switch. If the ledge or "shelf" behind the hole stops just above the middle of the hole, this is considered a low shelf and generally works well for super safety installs.
No shelf - A lower that has no shelf is great for super safeties since the rearward movement of the lever is not impeded, but these may require the use of plastic washers to help keep the super safety centered.
High shelf - A lower that has the shelf above the safety selector is considered a high shelf. These lowers are never recommended for super safeties. While it is technically possible to machine these to function, its generally not recommended.
After confirming a super safety will function properly in your firearm, there are three primary modifications required for proper Super Safety operation.
​
1. Trigger Modification
Begin by cutting the trigger as shown in the photo below.
-
The right-side cut should be approximately 45–60 degrees. This cut is mainly for clearance, so the exact angle is not critical.
-
On the side of the trigger that must be rounded, start with a VERY small radius and increase it gradually. If too much material is removed from this radius, the super safety cam will FAIL to reset the trigger.
Function test:
Reinstall the Super Safety cam and lever, along with the trigger, with the Super Safety set in the middle position. Hold the trigger to the rear as if firing, and manually rotate the lever. The trigger should move slightly forward and backward.
-
If there is no movement, continue rounding the corner until proper engagement is achieved.
​
2. Safety Detent Pin Modification
The safety detent pin simply needs to be rounded, as shown in the photo. This step is straightforward and ensures smooth lever movement.
BEFORE
AFTER
3. Upper Receiver “Shelf” Modification (Recommended)
This modification is not always required depending on your upper receiver, but is strongly recommended to avoid jamming issues later. When the charging handle is pulled or the BCG is fully to the rear, the Super Safety lever can get wedged against this shelf.
​
Remove the BCG and grind back the section of the upper receiver shown in the photo.
In the example photo, the area has only been slightly relieved, but many users prefer to grind the shelf completely flush for maximum clearance.
BEFORE
AFTER
AR-9
Setting up an AR-9 for a Super Safety requires additional work, and the exact steps will depend on the parts you’re using. I’ve provided a link to a very informative video that explains the full process.
Copyright Disclaimer: The embedded video is not my property. All rights belong to the original creator and copyright holder. The video is shared under YouTube’s embedding policy and is used solely for educational/informational purposes.