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When buying an AR-15, you probably focus on barrel style or the bolt carrier group material. These parts are undoubtedly important components of a firearm, but there is a small, often unnoticed element that is just as important: the trigger guard.
Whether you are looking for a trigger guard to build your own AR-15 or you want to replace the guard you currently have, we have a list of the best products available.
Find the perfect trigger guard for your firearm with the following list of quality products.
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
Comparison of the Best AR-15 Trigger Guards
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What is the Purpose of a Trigger Guard on a Firearm?
Firearms, of any shape and size, can be deadly. Even if you only use your AR-15 for hunting or weekend plinking, you still need to take plenty of safety precautions - such as getting a trigger guard.
This tiny piece of plastic protects you and those around you from accidental discharge. Without a trigger guard, a stray touch, bump, or jolt could pull the trigger and discharge the gun.
The plastic loop also helps remind you to keep your finger off the trigger - and out of the trigger guard - when you are not actively shooting.
Guntec USA AR-15 Enhanced Trigger Guard
What Should I Look for When Buying an AR-15 Trigger Guard?
Even though the trigger guard is a tiny part of an AR-15, there are still plenty of things to look for when you want to buy a new one.
Installation
With parts this small, you want a trigger guard that you can effortlessly install and remove. Since the guard connects to the lower receiver’s fragile tabs, an easy installation ensures that those tabs remain intact and undamaged.
Durability
Since the trigger guard protects against accidental discharge, you need to find one with durable material. You don’t want the plastic to break if you bump it against something unintentionally. Plus, look for a material that resists erosion and rust.
Comfort
One of the most important factors of a quality trigger guard is comfort. Many people replace the generic guard that comes with their AR-15 because it is not a comfortable fit. Some key points to look for are ergonomic edges, a smooth finish, and enough space for your gloved fingers.
Review of the Best AR-15 Trigger Guards
To save you some time, we have compiled a list of the most durable and comfortable trigger guards on the market. With any one of the following choices, you’ll enjoy a cozy fit and improved protection for your AR-15.
Best Overall:
Guntec USA AR-15 Enhanced Trigger Guard
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers loved the trigger guard. They raved about the simple installation, durability, and smooth construction. There were almost no negative comments except for one customer who needed to file down the guard to fit well with an Anderson lower receiver.
Other than that, the opinions of this Guntec trigger guard were incredibly positive.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We love the stylish construction and quality material of this trigger guard.
Instead of the regular solid black generic guard that comes with most AR-15s, you can choose a more colorful option (or stick to the basics) with this Guntec product. Plus, the guard has three circles of diminishing sizes that run along the strip to add an aesthetic touch.
Thanks to the T6 aluminum, this trigger guard will last you a long time and not add extra weight to your rifle. The kit also comes with a set screw and roll pin so you can install the trigger guard right away.
We can’t forget that the Guntec enhanced trigger guard gives you plenty of room so that you can use your AR-15 easily with gloves.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for an affordable trigger guard that combines style and durability, the Guntec trigger guard is a fantastic choice. The circle design keeps it lightweight while adding an interesting touch to your AR-15.
Runner-up:
Magpul Industries Enhanced Trigger Guard
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers had trouble finding flaws in this Magpul trigger guard. From the tight fit to the comfortable feel, they had nothing but good things to say about the quality and durability.
The only downside people could find was that they needed some special tools to install the guard correctly. Other than that, they were delighted with the purchase.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Magpul Industries is a leading manufacturer of AR-15 parts, and this trigger guard is an excellent example of their quality products.
Whether you use your AR-15 for fun or competitions, this sleek, simple guard will work for you. The slight curve gives a more comfortable fit, especially if you are shooting with gloves on. Plus, the soft finish ensures you won’t accidentally scratch yourself on an uneven edge.
Magpul promises that their parts will last for a long time since they use top materials like anodized aluminum. Whether you use your AR-15 daily or only a few times a month, this trigger guard will serve you well for an extended period.
Bottom Line
Even though this trigger guard is on the pricier end, the Magpul quality is unbeatable. You will enjoy a tight, comfortable fit and exceptional durability.
Best for the Money:
Timber Creek Outdoors AR Oversized Trigger Guard
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers have declared that this Timber Creek trigger guard is another top-notch product. They praised the snug fit, smooth feel, and wide-open space, recommending this product to people building an AR-15 and to those looking to upgrade their rifles.
The only possible downside is that it may not work with an M3 mag, but the vast majority of buyers were more than pleased with their purchase.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Are you tired of the standard black trigger guard? Timber Creek offers an aesthetically pleasing product that comes in various colors, from your typical gray and beige to a bright yellow or purple. Plus, the guard has a design with open diagonal spaces for a unique look.
Not only is this trigger guard attractive, but it also has strong aircraft-grade aluminum that creates a curved ergonomic shape. Even if you have larger hands or prefer to shoot with gloves on, this guard gives you enough space for a comfortable fit and easy shot.
Bottom Line
With a slick, stylish look and comfortable fit, the Timber Creek trigger guard is a favorite for many shooters. Even though it may cost a bit more than other options, you get a unique addition to your AR-15.
4. Magpul Polymer Trigger Guard
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers often choose Magpul products over other brands because of their superior build, and these recent buyers confirmed that. There were numerous comments about their immense satisfaction with the fit, sturdiness, color, and price.
A few people had trouble with the installation, stating that the materials Magpul provided did not work well. Still, most buyers only had wonderful things to say about this guard.
Why it Stands Out to Us
With Magpul, quality is a priority. This drop-in replacement trigger guard comes in an ergonomic V-shape for the perfect fit. Plus, the polymer construction gives it a lightweight feel and improved durability.
While some other trigger guards come in bold colors, you can choose between more subtle colors for this model. Pick a light beige or a soft green to go with your camouflage AR-15. Of course, you can always opt for the generic black or gray if you prefer.
As an added plus, this guard eliminates that annoying gap that you may have at the end of your regular trigger guard.
Bottom Line
This smooth, spacious trigger guard is a fantastic option for hunters looking for a long-lasting guard in a muted color. Even if you prefer plinking or competition shooting, this guard will provide you with a smooth feel and tight fit.
5. Bravo Company MFG BCM Trigger Guard
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
With only a few negative comments about the plastic composition and missing Allen key, most recent customers raved about the guard. Despite the missing Allen key, the buyers agreed that the installation was incredibly simple. They also loved the low price, construction, and overall feel.
Why it Stands out to Us
Even though this is one of the cheapest trigger guards on our list, it still has incredible construction and durability. Plus, the simple yet spacious design gives you much more room than the stock guard that came with your rifle.
Because Bravo Company uses a polymer material to build their guards, each one is extremely lightweight. Also, the simple black color will complement the styling of your AR-15.
Bottom Line
You can find quality options at an inexpensive price, and this is Bravo Company trigger guard is a fantastic example of that. With a soft feel and lasting construction, you won’t even notice this guard is one of the cheapest models.
AR-15 Trigger Guard Install
This small piece of equipment requires intricate installation, so you don’t accidentally damage your lower receiver. Use the following steps for a simple, flawless installation.
- Position the front of the trigger guard in the lower receiver so that the detent will pop into the hole on the right side.
- The detent is spring-loaded, so push the detent down while sliding it into place. The detent should pop right into the hole in the ears.
- To attach the other side of the trigger guard, make sure you support the lower receiver’s tabs with a specially designed block. If you do not provide sufficient support under the receiver, the ears could break off while you hammer, leaving the lower receiver useless.
- Place a support block under the ears, and line up the trigger guard’s hole with the holes in the ears.
- Use a roll pin starter punch to start slowly hammering the roll pin into the holes.
- Once the pin is partially in place, switch to a standard roll pin punch as you drive the pin the rest of the way through.
- Make sure the pin does not stick out of either side.
If you would like a clear visual on how to install a trigger guard, watch the helpful video below.
How to Remove AR-15 Trigger Guard
If you want to replace your trigger guard, make sure you can remove the existing one quickly and efficiently with the following steps.
- Use a roll pin punch to remove the pin from the trigger guard and ears of the lower receiver. A 3/32 punch (or bigger) will probably be the right size.
- Make sure you place a block or some type of support under your AR-15 as you remove the trigger guard to protect your lower receiver from any damage.
- Hammer the punch gently until the pin comes out, which should liberate one side of the trigger guard.
- The other side of the trigger guard has a spring-loaded detent.
- Depress the top of the detent and gently pull the trigger guard out while pushing down on the silver head.
Don’t forget to check out the video below for a more detailed tutorial on removing an AR-15 trigger guard.
Conclusion
So, now it’s time for you to choose which trigger guard you want for your AR-15. We hope you find the perfect upgrade for your firearm, one that will provide both comfort and superior protection.
People Also Ask
Even though the trigger is a small part of your AR-15, it is incredibly important. As you consider which trigger guard you want to buy to protect against any accidental discharge, you may have some questions.
Here are some of the top questions we receive concerning triggers, trigger guards, and legality. Hopefully, our answers will guide you towards an educated purchasing decision.
How Fast Can a Full Auto AR-15 Shoot?
Straight out of the box, an AR-15 is not an automatic weapon. It can only shoot as fast as you can repeatedly pull the trigger.
However, if you invest in certain modifications, you can turn your semi-automatic AR-15 into an M16. Because the AR-15’s design is for a semi-automatic weapon, you can not fire a limitless number of rounds per minute.
As a fully automatic weapon, the AR-15’s gas tube would melt at 600 rounds per minute. As such, a more realistic maximum speed would be closer to 400 rounds per minute.
Why is an AR-15 Not an Assault Rifle?
In simple terms, an AR-15 is not an assault rifle because it is only semi-automatic.
Contrary to popular belief, the “AR” in AR-15 does not mean “automatic rifle” or “assault rifle.” The “AR” stands for Armalite Rifle.
What is the Standard Trigger Pull on an AR-15?
The trigger pull is the force you need to exert on the trigger to shoot the gun. According to mil-spec regulations, the trigger pull should be somewhere between 5.5 to 8.5 pounds. However, you can find trigger pulls as low as 2.5 pounds on rifles that do not have mil-spec triggers.