For firearm enthusiasts, upgrading to an aftermarket trigger is one of the most common modifications to improve a gun’s performance. Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a law enforcement professional, or a hobbyist, the right trigger can make a world of difference in terms of accuracy, speed, and overall shooting experience.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the benefits of aftermarket triggers, what to look for when choosing one, and how to properly install an aftermarket trigger on your firearm. Let’s get into the details of this crucial component.
What is an Aftermarket Trigger?
An aftermarket trigger is a replacement for the factory-installed trigger on your firearm. These triggers are typically made by specialized manufacturers who focus on optimizing the trigger pull, travel, and overall feel of the trigger. Aftermarket triggers are available for a variety of guns, from AR-15s to 1911s to handguns.
Unlike factory triggers, which are designed for mass production and often focus on durability over performance, aftermarket triggers offer customization options that enhance the precision, speed, and comfort of your shooting experience.
Benefits of Aftermarket Triggers
Upgrading to an aftermarket trigger can provide several advantages over the stock, factory-installed version. Below are some of the key benefits that can significantly improve your shooting experience:
1. Improved Trigger Pull
One of the most significant benefits of an aftermarket trigger is the improvement in trigger pull. Factory triggers can often have a long, heavy pull that negatively affects accuracy and precision. Aftermarket triggers are designed with lighter, shorter, and smoother pulls to provide a more responsive and controlled shooting experience.
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Reduced Trigger Weight: Many aftermarket triggers offer a lighter pull, which reduces the amount of force required to engage the trigger, making it easier to shoot accurately.
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Crisper Break: Aftermarket triggers often have a cleaner “break,” meaning the point at which the trigger releases the hammer or firing pin is more distinct and consistent.
2. Faster Reset
A faster reset improves your ability to shoot rapidly and accurately. Aftermarket triggers typically provide a shorter reset than factory triggers, allowing you to quickly return to the ready position after firing, which is especially useful in competitive shooting or self-defense scenarios.
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Reduced Reset Distance: Some aftermarket triggers have a reset that is so short that it can be felt with minimal movement, allowing for quicker follow-up shots.
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Increased Speed: A faster reset can be crucial for competitive or tactical shooting, where speed is a key factor.
3. Customization Options
Aftermarket triggers come in a wide range of options, allowing shooters to tailor their firearm to their specific preferences. Whether you want a single-stage, two-stage, or adjustable trigger, aftermarket options provide you with a high level of customization.
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Single-Stage Triggers: Offers a consistent, smooth pull from start to finish with no delay.
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Two-Stage Triggers: Features an initial, lighter pull followed by a slightly heavier second stage before the shot is released.
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Adjustable Triggers: Allows you to adjust the pull weight, travel, and reset to suit your shooting style.
4. Increased Accuracy
By reducing the amount of force needed to pull the trigger and minimizing any inconsistencies in the pull, aftermarket triggers can help you shoot more accurately. A clean, consistent trigger pull is essential for maintaining steady aim and hitting your target with precision.
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Reduced Trigger Creep: Aftermarket triggers are designed to minimize any unwanted movement or slack before the shot is released, which can help improve your accuracy.
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Smoother Action: A smoother trigger action prevents jerking or flinching, both of which can cause poor shots.
5. Enhanced Safety Features
Many aftermarket triggers are designed with added safety features to reduce the risk of accidental discharge. For example, some aftermarket options include safety levers or trigger safeties that prevent the trigger from being pulled unintentionally.
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Trigger Safety: Ensures the gun cannot be fired unless the shooter intentionally engages the trigger.
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Safety Lock: Some aftermarket triggers offer built-in safety mechanisms that prevent firing if the trigger is engaged too early or under certain conditions.
Types of Aftermarket Triggers
There are several types of aftermarket triggers, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. Below are the most common types:
1. Single-Stage Triggers
A single-stage trigger provides a direct, uninterrupted pull, with no transitional stages. When you pull the trigger, it moves smoothly until it breaks and fires the gun. This type of trigger is often favored by precision shooters, as it allows for consistent control over each shot.
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Best For: Competitive shooting, precision shooting, tactical use.
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Pros: Simple, consistent, and reliable.
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Cons: No secondary “safety stage” before the shot.
2. Two-Stage Triggers
A two-stage trigger involves an initial, lighter pull followed by a slightly heavier stage that culminates in a clean break. This setup is popular for hunting rifles and military-style firearms as it offers better control and allows the shooter to prepare for the shot while still maintaining trigger safety.
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Best For: Hunting, tactical use, military firearms.
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Pros: Offers better control and feel.
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Cons: More complex than single-stage triggers.
3. Adjustable Triggers
Adjustable triggers allow shooters to modify various aspects of the trigger pull, including the weight, length of travel, and reset distance. This customization makes it a versatile option for shooters who want to fine-tune their firearm to fit their style and preferences.
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Best For: Custom-built firearms, competitive shooters, those who want full control over their trigger setup.
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Pros: Fully customizable for different shooting styles.
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Cons: Requires more setup and adjustment.
How to Install an Aftermarket Trigger
While the process of installing an aftermarket trigger will vary depending on the firearm and trigger model, here are the basic steps to follow:
1. Gather Tools and Equipment
Before you begin, make sure you have the proper tools, including:
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Screwdrivers
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Punches
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Grease or lubricant (if recommended by the trigger manufacturer)
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Safety equipment (such as eye protection and gloves)
2. Unload and Disassemble the Firearm
Always ensure that your firearm is unloaded before working on it. Disassemble the firearm according to the manufacturer’s instructions to access the trigger assembly.
3. Remove the Factory Trigger
Using the appropriate tools (usually a punch and a screwdriver), carefully remove the factory-installed trigger. This may require removing the trigger pin, disconnector, and other small components that hold the trigger in place.
4. Install the Aftermarket Trigger
Place the new aftermarket trigger in the trigger housing. Make sure to properly align it with the other internal components (like the sear and disconnector). Some aftermarket triggers may require you to adjust the trigger weight or travel at this point.
5. Reassemble and Test
Once the new trigger is in place, reassemble your firearm and perform a function test. Dry fire the weapon to ensure the trigger operates smoothly and the reset is functioning as expected.
6. Fine-Tuning (Optional)
If the trigger is adjustable, fine-tune the pull weight and reset distance according to your preference.
Conclusion: Is an Aftermarket Trigger Right for You?
An aftermarket trigger can significantly enhance the performance of your customized firearm by improving accuracy, speed, and control. Whether you prefer a single-stage, two-stage, or adjustable trigger, there’s a wide range of options to suit your specific needs.
Remember that while aftermarket triggers can provide excellent performance, installation should be done carefully, and it’s important to choose a high-quality trigger from a trusted manufacturer to ensure safety and reliability.
If you’re looking to optimize your firearm for accuracy, speed, and ease of use, an aftermarket trigger is an upgrade you won’t regret.