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Dropping a new trigger into your AR-15 is a lot like adding a supercharged engine to a sports car. Sure, your rifle probably performed adequately with its original trigger, but replacing it with a higher-end aftermarket model can have a significant impact on the feel and performance of your gun.
While they look simple enough, AR triggers are highly specialized pieces of equipment, and there are many factors to consider when evaluating different models.
Today, we’re going to dive into everything you need to know, and we’ll take a closer look at the best AR-15 triggers on the market today.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best AR-15 Triggers
- OUR TOP PICK: OpticsPlanet Exclusive Timney Triggers
- RUNNER-UP: RISE Armament RA-240 Enhanced Rifle Trigger
- BEST AR-15 TRIGGER FOR THE MONEY: FosTech Outdoors Echo AR-II Drop-In Binary AR-15 Trigger
- BEST AR-15 DROP-IN TRIGGER: Luth-AR AR-15 Velocity Classic Trigger
- BEST 2 STAGE AR-15 TRIGGER: Triggertech AR-15 Adaptable Trigger
Comparison of the Best AR-15 Triggers
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Are AR-15 Triggers Universal?
AR triggers offer a nearly universal fit in the sense that virtually any trigger designed for an AR-15 should fit your rifle. But, just because a trigger technically fits your rifle doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right fit for that gun.
Drop-in triggers are always your best bet for a universal fit, as they’re almost entirely self-contained, and they don’t require any specialized assembly on your behalf. Virtually any drop-in AR trigger you like should fit your rifle.
What Makes a Great AR-15 Trigger?
There are tons of different quality AR-15 triggers on the market, and many share similar characteristics. These are some of the common things we notice when evaluating the best AR-15 triggers.
Durability
Durability is probably the most essential thing to consider when shopping for a trigger. Triggers withstand tons of abuse throughout their lifetime. The trigger well is subject to all sorts of dust and debris from regular use. If the trigger isn’t well built and protected from all that dirt and grime, it’s going to fail on you.
Ease of Install
Plenty of kitchen table gunsmiths set out to change the trigger of their AR only to realize halfway through the installation that they’re in way over their heads. The best way to avoid falling into the same trap is to opt for a trigger that’s easy to install. Drop-in triggers are your best bet to guarantee an easy install.
Variable Trigger Weight
Many shooters are happy with a trigger that offers a consistent trigger weight. Still, there are many advantages to a variable trigger weight that can help make your rifle safer and more comfortable to fire.
With a variable weight trigger, you’ll be able to adjust the weight down as low as you’d like when you’re hunting or hitting the range and raise the weight to prevent misfires or unwanted discharge.
Review of the Best AR-15 Triggers
AR enthusiasts agree the triggers below represent the best of the best. If you’re looking for the best AR trigger for your rifle, be sure to include the models below in your search.
Best Overall:
OpticsPlanet Exclusive Timney Triggers
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Rifle enthusiasts love the ease of install and the fast and responsive action of this trigger. Many reports that their groupings are tighter, and their overall shooting experience is much improved. Keep in mind that the weights on these range from 3-4.5 pounds, so shooters used to a mil-spec trigger will have to exercise extreme caution as they get used to a lighter trigger.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Timney is world-renowned for building some of the most high-quality triggers on the market, and this OpticsPlanet Exclusive model is an excellent example of the quality they put out. This trigger is effortless to install, and it has a unique look with its blue trigger.
Once installed, you’ll enjoy exceptionally reliable operation with very little play and a near-instant reset.
Bottom Line
For competition shooters, rifle enthusiasts looking for a lighter trigger, or anyone looking to equip their rifle with a top of the line model, this OpticsPlanet Exclusive from Timney is one of the best options on the market today.
Runner-up:
RISE Armament RA-240 Enhanced Rifle Trigger
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Shooters who’ve added this RISE trigger to their guns are typically impressed by the value to quality ratio. This model offers an excellent feel, a smooth and crisp break, and a lightning-fast reset that’s ideal for competition.
Why it Stands Out to Us
At well under $150, the RA-240 is one of the best values in the business. It provides smoothness and consistency you typically only see on much more expensive triggers. Plus, it’s available in straight and semi-curved configurations to provide the shooter with the feel they’re looking for.
With a trigger weight of 3.5 pounds, this trigger is relatively light but still robust enough to prevent accidental discharge. RISE also includes premium hardware and anti-walk pins, so everything you’ll need for a perfect installation is right in the package.
Bottom Line
The RA-240 is one of the best drop-in single-stage triggers in this price range, and it performs as well as many of the heavyweight options that cost nearly twice as much. This model is ideal for rifle enthusiasts on a budget looking to upgrade to a worthy competition trigger.
Best AR-15 Trigger for the Money:
FosTech Outdoors Echo AR-II Drop-In Binary AR-15 Trigger
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Rifle enthusiasts agree that this is the closest you can get to a fully automatic weapon without the hefty tax stamp. The safety feature that prevents a second round from firing on trigger release when the safety is engaged is another favorite feature on the range as well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Echo function is the crown jewel of this trigger, and it’s the feature that most rifle enthusiasts gravitate towards. The build quality is another standout element of this trigger, and it’s a cut above most triggers on the market.
The innovative features and exceptional quality do come with a hefty price tag, and many shooters may find this trigger to be a bit too rich for their blood. But, if you’re willing to pay the premium price, you’ll be rewarded with premium performance.
Bottom Line
This is an incredibly high quality, albeit expensive trigger that provides incredibly reliable binary operation in addition to classic functionality. Anyone interested in a binary trigger should give this one a test drive.
Best AR-15 Drop-In Trigger:
Luth-AR AR-15 Velocity Classic Trigger
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Value for money is the bottom line when you ask most AR enthusiasts about this trigger. For the money, it’s hard to find a trigger that offers a feel as smooth and crisp as the Luth-AR Classic. With minimal creep and virtually no over travel, this trigger gives a feel that far surpasses the low price point.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One of the first things we noticed is the ease of installation. Even by drop-in standards, this trigger installs incredibly fast and easy. Once installed, shooters are sure to love the crisp and reliable feel of the Classic from Luth-AR. The finger stop on the straight trigger is another detail that makes this trigger even more of a joy to use.
Bottom Line
For the price, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a drop-in trigger that’s easier to install or as durable as the Classic from Luth-AR. Plus, it offers a feel and finish that rival many triggers that cost considerably more.
Best 2 Stage AR-15 Trigger:
Triggertech AR-15 Adaptable Trigger
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most shooters are blown away by the performance of this trigger, which provides a genuinely zero-creep experience with hardly any overtravel to speak of. It’s also one of the most adjustable triggers on the market, so it’s perfect for shooters who like to tinker.
Why it Stands Out to Us
With its two-stage operation, adjustable trigger weight, and lifetime warranty, there’s a lot to like about the Adaptable trigger from Triggertech. This model is built to last for decades, and their lifetime warranty is a testament to how durable it is.
Triggertech is known for building its products to extremely tight tolerances, and this model is no different. With no creep, virtually no overtravel, and tons of play to adjust trigger weight, this model is one of our favorites on the market.
Bottom Line
It’s hard to be all things to all people, but this trigger gets you about as close as you can. Highly adjustable and incredibly well built, this model from Triggertech is perhaps the best two-stage trigger on the market.
Best Single Stage AR-15 Trigger:
CMC Triggers AR15 Single Stage Flat 2-2.5lb
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
AR fans love this trigger for its ease of installation, relatively affordable price, and consistent performance. This trigger doesn’t have many creeps, and the break is very consistent. Some users do report small issues with the reset not being exceptionally consistent.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For shooters looking for a quality single-stage trigger with feather-light trigger weight, this model from CMC is a great choice. CMC is the original drop-in trigger manufacturer, and they’re preferred by professionals and enthusiasts alike for their reliable performance and precision machined components.
Bottom Line
Smooth, reliable, and made from top quality components in Texas, this CMC trigger delivers outstanding value and performance while being incredibly easy to install. Single-stage enthusiasts should take a closer look.
Best AR-15 Flat Trigger:
Geissele Super Dynamic 3-Gun Trigger
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Competition shooters and anyone looking for a single-stage trigger with a more predictable break love this Geissele Super Dynamic trigger. Each component is precision machined, and it offers a high-quality feel that few aftermarket triggers can replicate.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This attractive and easy to install trigger features a tactical flat profile that feels familiar and comfortable each time your finger lands on the trigger. The break is exceptionally well defined, making it ideal for shooters who want a bit more predictability from their trigger.
The reset is lightning fast, and some shooters are surprised to see that they’re burning through ammo at a much higher clip. But, for competition use or anyone looking for a more reliable and consistent trigger, this model from Geissele is well worth closer inspection.
Bottom Line
While it may be a bit expensive for a non-drop-in trigger, the feel, fit, and finish of this trigger is difficult to beat. Be sure to give this trigger a try, especially if you’re a competitive shooter.
Types of Triggers
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types of AR triggers.
What is a Binary Trigger?
A binary trigger offers multiple modes and can make your semi-automatic rifle perform like an automatic. Binary triggers don’t fire as quickly as a fully automatic rifle, but they get darn close. Plus, it’s a much cheaper alternative than investing in a fully automatic trigger, assuming you’re somehow able to procure one.
How Does a Binary Trigger Work and What Does a Binary Trigger Do?
These triggers work by releasing the sear on both the trigger's pull and release when the trigger is operating in binary mode. Doing so comes close to doubling your fire rate since the trigger activates on both the pull and release, instead of just on the pull.
This effectively doubles your fire rate and can give you some very close two round groups, to the point where I could land two hits in the A-zone at 25 yards with one trigger pull.
What is a Two-Stage Trigger?
There’s a second phase of the operating process with a two-stage trigger, which lends several advantages to the shooter. These triggers don’t break and fire in a single motion. The other action required to fire the gun helps with accuracy and balance.
How Does a Two-Stage Trigger Work?
When a two-stage trigger is depressed, the shooter will hit a break wall before the weapon discharges. The gun will then fire once the trigger is squeezed past this break wall. This alerts the shooter to the exact moment the gun will discharge.
What is a Single Stage Trigger?
Single-stage triggers offer a single smooth range of motion to fire the weapon. They’re no-frills, easy to adjust, and preferred by many shooters.
Single-Stage vs Two-Stage Trigger
It all boils down to the shooters' personal preference. Some users love the reliability and fast action of a single-stage, while others prefer the added level of control and balance that a two-stage trigger can provide. Speak with a local gunsmith about what you want out of your trigger, and they’ll be able to steer you in the right direction.
Flat vs Curved Trigger
Flat and curved triggers are another matter of personal preference. Flat triggers allow your finger to make uniform contact with the trigger regardless of where you grip the trigger, whereas a curved trigger provides for a shorter trigger reach. If you have exceptionally large or small hands, you may find that one is better suited to your needs than the other.
How to Remove AR-15 Trigger Assembly
Removing an AR trigger assembly is a fairly straightforward process that will only take you a few minutes.
First, separate the upper and lower receivers of the rifle and remove the lower receiver's grip. Most grips have a screw or small bolt you can access from the grip's bottom to remove them.
Next, use a straight punch and a mallet to push out the two pins that hold the trigger assembly inside the rifle. Once the pins have been removed, you can take out the entire trigger assembly and safety lever.
Completing this process is much easier when the gun is fixed in place, so consider gripping your rifle with a vise before you start removing the existing trigger.
How to Install AR-15 Trigger
Now that you’ve removed the existing trigger assembly from your rifle, you’re ready to install the new trigger. The instructions below should serve you well for installing any standard AR trigger that isn’t a drop-in.
Place the Trigger into the Receiver
Once you’ve removed your existing trigger, the first step is to install the new trigger into the receiver. Simply drop the trigger into the receiver with the springs extending outwards towards the front of the rifle.
You’ll need to play with the trigger a bit so that it can clear the safety mechanism and drop it into place. Leave the disconnector spring in place when you drop in the new trigger.
Install the Disconnector
Drop the disconnector into place, ensuring that it interfaces with the trigger mechanism properly. Apply some downward pressure to the top of the disconnector until you see the disconnector's hole align with the hole in the lower assembly.
Once aligned, place the pin through the hole and bang it back into place. Once assembled, press down on the disconnector to ensure the spring is tensioned correctly.
Install the Hammer
Take your hammer with the spring legs facing the butt of the gun. Place the hammer into the receiver with the spring legs across the trigger pin. Using two hands, force the hammer into the receiver and downward until the hammer's hole aligns with the second pinhole in the receiver.
Place the second pin back into its hole and use a mallet to bang it back into place. Check the disconnector and trigger to make sure that they have proper tension, Cock the hammer back, and listen for the distinct sound of the lockup, which lets you know you’ve done your job.
Be sure to check the video below for a visual representation of installing an AR-15 trigger.
Trigger Safety
There is always a level of inherent danger when operating a rifle or any firearm for that matter. While careful training and vigilance are the best way to prevent negligent discharge, there are a few other things you can do to ensure the safe operation of your rifle.
Practice Proper Safety Manipulation
One of the most common causes of ND is when the shooter isn’t mindful of their fingers as they move to engage the safety. As the shooter moves their hand to manipulate the safety, it presents an opportunity for one of your fingers to contact the trigger, resulting in an accidental fire.
Using the base of your index finger to engage the lever is the safest way to engage the rifle’s safety. While it may seem more natural to do it with the tip of your finger, this leaves the door open for potential ND.
Consider a Triggersafe
The Triggersafe is an innovative product designed to prevent accidental or negligent discharge of your weapon.
This simple device fits around the trigger assembly and eliminates the potential for accidental discharge by you or a piece of gear. It’s an added layer of safety, and it’s an inexpensive add-on, so every rifle owner should consider using one.
Keep Your Finger Out of the Trigger Guard
Whether you’re hunting, on the range, or engaging with an enemy, practicing good trigger discipline is of paramount importance.
Always keep your finger out of the trigger guard and off the trigger until the moment you’re prepared to discharge the weapon.
Conclusion
Replacing your stock trigger with an aftermarket trigger is a great way to improve your rifle's performance and feel. Each of the triggers we’ve covered above represents the cream of the crop and are some of the best AR-15 triggers on the market.
Speak with your local gunsmith, and try out each of the triggers on our list to determine which one will be an ideal fit for your rifle.
People Also Ask
When shopping for an aftermarket trigger for their prized rifle, shooters generally have a few other questions they need answers to. We’ve answered them below to provide you with as much comprehensive information in one place as possible.
What is the Standard Trigger Pull on an AR-15?
Standard trigger pull is defined as a range, not a concrete number. You’ll find AR triggers with trigger pulls as light as 2.5 pounds, but military spec defines the standard range as 5.5-8.5 pounds. Anything that falls within that range would be considered standard.
What is Trigger Pull?
Trigger pull refers to the amount of force your finger must exert to pull the trigger. Trigger pulls can be as light as 2.5 pounds, or upwards of 10 pounds on the heavier end of the spectrum. Lighter triggers are generally preferred for competition or duty situations, while a standard or heavy trigger pull is better for home defense.
Why Are AR-15 Triggers so Expensive?
It’s a valid question, considering how simple a trigger appears to be. But, there are many aspects that go into making a trigger, and those costs add up. Plus, drop-in triggers which greatly simplify installation add additional cost to the equation. Always bring a skeptical eye to the table when evaluating different triggers; some triggers are expensive, but others are downright overpriced.
Should I Upgrade My AR-15 Trigger?
Upgrading your AR trigger is a matter of personal preference. Most shooters find that their stock triggers are inadequate for a variety of reasons. Perhaps your stock trigger has too much play in it, or you’d like to switch to trigger weights or go from a single stage to a two-stage or vice versa. Whatever the reason, you alone must decide if you’d like to upgrade your trigger.
How Does an AR-15 Trigger Work?
Once the shooter pulls the trigger, a delicate dance begins inside the weapon to fire a round.
First, the trigger is pulled, which releases the hammer. The hammer then strikes the firing pin, and the firing pin strikes the primer. The primer explodes, which ignites the powder that propels the bullet from the rifle.