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Owning a rifle gives you plenty of versatility, as you can customize many aspects of the weapon. One of the most popular options to upgrade and change is the trigger, as there are many options available. Rifle triggers can have different pull weights, shoe shapes, and features, such as single-stage, two-stage, and binary mechanisms. This guide will dive into the terminology and different configurations to help you determine what trigger is best for your needs.
What Are the Differences Between a Single-Stage & Two-Stage Trigger?
A single-stage AR15 trigger has a consistent pull weight and resistance from start to finish when the trigger breaks. A two-stage trigger has two trigger pulls. As the shooter pulls the trigger, they will notice it moving toward the rear of the trigger guard and then stop. This point where the trigger meets noticeable resistance is referred to as a "wall" and is where the first stage of the trigger pull ends and the start of the second stage begins.
The second stage of a two-stage trigger has less follow through, so as the shooter applies pressure, there is a clean break. With a two-stage trigger, there can be different pull weights for the first and second stage, like those made by CMC Triggers. For example, the first stage of a two-stage trigger may have a 2.5 pound pull weight while the second stage has a 3 pound pull weight, making the total 5.5 pounds.
Whether you choose to use a single-stage or two-stage trigger is personal preference. Some single-stage triggers and two-stage triggers even have the same total pull weight. A lot of long-range and competition shooters, as well as people who primarily use bolt action rifles, use a single-stage trigger with a light pull weight. This is because people often view single-stage triggers as simple since there is one continuous trigger pull instead of a first and second stage. One popular option for a precision rifle is a single-stage Precision Geissele trigger, as it has a smooth, clean break.
The biggest benefit of a two-stage trigger is that it provides a light trigger pull while having more control of knowing when the trigger will break, which is crucial for marksmanship competitions. Once the shooter gets through the first stage and hits the wall of the second stage, they know that the rifle is about to fire. Having a two-stage trigger also allows shooters to let off the trigger if the shot they were going to take is no longer available.
What Is a Binary Trigger?
Binary triggers have a unique feature that allows them to fire once when they pull the trigger and again when they release the trigger. Generally, people install binary triggers in AR-15 platforms, as these rifles have three-position safety selectors. This allows the shooter to switch between three firing modes: semi-automatic, binary, and safe. While binary triggers are popular and fun for shooting at the range, competitions and hunting guidelines usually restrict their use. If you're looking for one of these, check out the OpticsPlanet Exclusive binary firing system from Franklin Armory. Some states have banned binary triggers entirely, so check your local laws before purchasing one.
How Do Trigger Kits & Drop-In Triggers Work?
Drop-in triggers, also known as cassette triggers, are fire control groups that are already assembled. This makes it easy for people who are new to customizing their weapon to remove their current rifle trigger and insert the drop-in trigger assembly without help from a gunsmith. Once the shooter places the drop-in trigger assembly in the lower receiver, they only have to install the trigger pins, and the weapon is ready to go. The TRYBE Defense Curved Drop-In Trigger even has instructions on how to install it, making the process as smooth as possible.
While similar to drop-in triggers, kit triggers do not come pre-assembled. Even though they come with the same parts and components, they are not self-contained in a housing like drop-in triggers. While this requires more hands-on assembly, you can easily replace individual parts of a kit trigger if they fail. Plus, some kits offer multiple spring weights to modify performance and pull weight. However, both types of triggers function the same from a mechanical and safety perspective.
What Does Trigger Pull Weight Mean?
Pull weight is the amount of force that you must apply to the trigger for it to break and fire a round. The best trigger pull weight for you depends on how you plan to use the rifle. For example, if you are practicing precision or competition shooting, opt for a lighter trigger. The lighter trigger pull helps prevent you from jerking the trigger, resulting in more consistent and accurate shots.
If you use the rifle to hunt or as a duty rifle, you will want a medium to heavy trigger pull. This is because you may bump the rifle or get something stuck in the trigger guard when moving through the woods or around obstacles. Having a heavier trigger will help prevent accidental discharges in these situations. Also, when lining up a shot in a high-stress situation, having a heavier trigger will help prevent you from accidentally firing before you are ready. Depending on the trigger you install, some allow you to adjust the pull weight. This lets you easily change the weight depending on your preferences and the appropriate conditions.
Flat vs. Curved Triggers
The trigger face or "shoe" can come in different shapes, and each one affects how your trigger finger fits around the component. While there are many options, the two most popular are curved and straight triggers. Curved triggers are more common primarily because this is the traditional design. The benefit of a curved trigger is that it allows a more comfortable distribution of pressure on the trigger by the shooter's trigger finger, which is useful for bolt-action rifles and new shooters.
A straight trigger, also known as a flat trigger, provides more surface area which helps the shooter maintain control in subsequent shots. The SIG SAUER Flat Blade trigger kit for the M400 Tread is especially popular, and it can fit in all Mil-Spec AR-15s. Straight triggers also allow for even distribution of pressure and the same travel distance no matter where the shooter places their finger on the trigger.
How Can You Tell if an AR Trigger Is Compatible With Your Rifle?
While you can swap many AR components between other AR-platform rifles, not all AR triggers are compatible. Instead, most AR15 triggers will fit Mil-Spec dimension AR-15s. This means that an aftermarket trigger made for an AR15 may fit in an AR10, but since AR10s do not have a Mil-Spec standard like AR15s, fitment cannot be guaranteed.
Another compatibility issue is caliber. Many AR trigger manufacturers have triggers designed for certain calibers. For example, you will find AR15 triggers designed for firing 5.56 and .223 ammo, as well as those designed to fire pistol calibers such as 9mm ammo. The trigger mechanisms designed for pistol calibers are made to function with the blowback operating systems found in many pistol caliber ARs, rather than the direct impingement gas system in an AR-15.
Another compatibility component of AR15 triggers is the pin size. There are both small and large trigger pins, and the majority of AR15s use small trigger pins. The only rifles that typically have large trigger pins are Colt AR15 Rifles manufactured between 1991 and 2009. Regardless of the firearm, make sure the trigger you select is listed as being compatible with your rifle.
Shop the Best Triggers at OpticsPlanet Today!
Rifle and AR15 triggers come in a variety of configurations, sizes, and shapes. The ideal pull weight and number of stages depends on the application and the individual, so the best trigger is one that fits your needs. However, any aftermarket trigger you purchase should provide a safe, smooth, and consistent trigger pull to give you the most accurate shot possible. If you're looking to make other upgrades to your rifle, check out our wide selection of rifle scopes and muzzle devices. We also have a wide variety of in-stock ammo available in many different calibers.
