What is a Two-Stage Trigger AR-15?
What Is a Two-Stage Trigger AR-15?
The AR-15 is a popular rifle for both recreational and self-defense purposes. One of the most important components of an AR-15 is the trigger. The trigger is responsible for firing the rifle, and the type of trigger you choose can have a significant impact on the rifle’s performance.
A two-stage trigger is a type of trigger that has two distinct stages of pull. The first stage is a light, pre-travel stage that takes the trigger about halfway to the rear. The second stage is a heavier, main-stage pull that completes the trigger’s travel and fires the rifle.
Two-stage triggers are often preferred by shooters who want a little more control over their trigger pull. The two-stage design allows shooters to make a precise, deliberate shot without having to worry about jerking the trigger and causing a miss.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at two-stage triggers for AR-15s. We’ll discuss the different types of two-stage triggers available, the benefits of using a two-stage trigger, and how to choose the right two-stage trigger for your AR-15.
| Column 1 | Column 2 | Column 3 |
|---|---|---|
| What is a Two Stage Trigger AR 15? | A two-stage trigger AR 15 is a type of trigger that has two stages of pull. The first stage is a light pull that engages the sear, and the second stage is a heavier pull that releases the hammer. This type of trigger can help to improve accuracy by allowing the shooter to make a more precise shot. | Benefits of a Two Stage Trigger AR 15 |
| Increased accuracy | The two-stage trigger allows the shooter to make a more precise shot by providing a light first stage pull that engages the sear and a heavier second stage pull that releases the hammer. | Reduced recoil |
| The two-stage trigger helps to reduce recoil by spreading out the force of the shot over two stages. | Improved trigger control | The two-stage trigger allows the shooter to have better control over the trigger, which can lead to more accurate shots. |
| Disadvantages of a Two Stage Trigger AR 15 | The two-stage trigger can be more difficult to learn to use than a single-stage trigger. | Increased cost |
| Two-stage triggers are typically more expensive than single-stage triggers. | Reduced fire rate | The two-stage trigger can reduce the fire rate of the rifle. |
What is a two-stage trigger AR-15?
A two-stage trigger AR-15 is a type of trigger that has two stages of pull weight. The first stage is a light, take-up weight, and the second stage is a heavier, main-spring weight. This type of trigger is designed to give the shooter more control over the rifle, as they can make a more deliberate decision about when to fire.
History of two-stage triggers
The first two-stage triggers were developed in the early 1900s for use in military rifles. These triggers were designed to reduce the risk of accidental discharges, as the first stage of pull weight made it more difficult to fire the rifle by mistake.
Two-stage triggers were not widely used in civilian firearms until the 1980s, when they began to be adopted by precision rifle shooters. These shooters found that two-stage triggers allowed them to make more precise shots, as they could more easily control the rifle’s recoil.
Today, two-stage triggers are available for a wide variety of firearms, including AR-15s. They are popular among both military and civilian shooters, who appreciate their accuracy and reliability.
Advantages and disadvantages of two-stage triggers
There are a number of advantages to using a two-stage trigger AR-15. These include:
- Increased accuracy: Two-stage triggers allow the shooter to make a more deliberate decision about when to fire, which can lead to increased accuracy.
- Reduced recoil: The first stage of pull weight in a two-stage trigger helps to reduce the rifle’s recoil, making it easier to control.
- Improved safety: The first stage of pull weight in a two-stage trigger can help to prevent accidental discharges.
There are also a few disadvantages to using a two-stage trigger AR-15. These include:
- Increased weight: Two-stage triggers are typically heavier than single-stage triggers.
- Increased cost: Two-stage triggers are typically more expensive than single-stage triggers.
- Increased complexity: Two-stage triggers are more complex than single-stage triggers, and they may require more maintenance.
How does a two-stage trigger AR-15 work?
A two-stage trigger AR-15 works by using two different springs to create two different stages of pull weight. The first stage of pull weight is created by a light spring, and the second stage of pull weight is created by a heavier spring.
When the shooter pulls the trigger, the first stage of pull weight is overcome, and the sear is released. This allows the hammer to move forward and strike the firing pin, firing the rifle.
The second stage of pull weight is created by the heavier spring, which helps to prevent the rifle from firing by mistake. The shooter must continue to pull the trigger until the second stage of pull weight is overcome, at which point the rifle will fire.
Trigger pull weight and travel
The trigger pull weight of a two-stage trigger AR-15 is typically between 3 and 5 pounds for the first stage and between 5 and 7 pounds for the second stage. The trigger travel of a two-stage trigger AR-15 is typically between 0.1 and 0.2 inches for the first stage and between 0.2 and 0.3 inches for the second stage.
Trigger reset
When the trigger is released after firing, the sear is reset and the trigger is ready to be pulled again. The trigger reset of a two-stage trigger AR-15 is typically between 0.05 and 0.1 inches.
Two-stage triggers AR-15s are a popular choice for both military and civilian shooters. They offer a number of advantages over single-stage triggers, including increased accuracy, reduced recoil, and improved safety. However, they are also more expensive and heavier than single-stage triggers.
If you are looking for a trigger that will give you more control over your rifle, then a two-stage trigger AR-15 is a great option. However, if you are looking for a trigger that is simple and inexpensive, then a single-stage trigger may be a better choice.
3. Types of two-stage triggers AR-15
There are two main types of two-stage triggers for AR-15s: single-stage and two-stage.
- Single-stage triggers have a single trigger pull that breaks cleanly at a set weight. They are typically lighter in weight than two-stage triggers and are often preferred by shooters who want a fast, accurate trigger pull.
- Two-stage triggers have a two-stage trigger pull that breaks cleanly at the second stage. The first stage of the trigger pull is typically light and allows the shooter to take up slack in the trigger. The second stage of the trigger pull is heavier and breaks cleanly at a set weight. Two-stage triggers are often preferred by shooters who want a more precise trigger pull.
Mil-spec vs. aftermarket triggers
AR-15 triggers can also be classified as mil-spec or aftermarket.
- Mil-spec triggers are triggers that meet the military’s specifications for AR-15s. They are typically made of steel and are designed to be durable and reliable. Mil-spec triggers are often the most affordable option, but they may not be as adjustable or precise as aftermarket triggers.
- Aftermarket triggers are triggers that are not made to the military’s specifications. They are typically made of lighter materials, such as aluminum or titanium, and are designed to be more adjustable and precise than mil-spec triggers. Aftermarket triggers can be more expensive than mil-spec triggers, but they may offer better performance for some shooters.
Adjustable vs. non-adjustable triggers
AR-15 triggers can also be classified as adjustable or non-adjustable.
- Adjustable triggers allow the shooter to adjust the trigger pull weight and/or the trigger travel. This can be helpful for shooters who want to fine-tune their trigger pull to their individual preferences.
- Non-adjustable triggers do not allow the shooter to adjust the trigger pull weight or the trigger travel. They are typically less expensive than adjustable triggers, but they may not be as versatile for shooters who want to fine-tune their trigger pull.
The type of two-stage trigger that is best for you will depend on your individual shooting needs and preferences. If you are unsure of which type of trigger is right for you, it is best to consult with a qualified firearms instructor.
What is a two-stage trigger AR-15?
A two-stage trigger AR-15 is a type of trigger that has two stages of pull. The first stage is a light, relatively easy pull that cocks the hammer. The second stage is a heavier pull that releases the hammer and fires the gun. Two-stage triggers are often preferred by precision shooters because they allow for more precise control of the trigger pull.
What are the advantages of a two-stage trigger AR-15?
There are several advantages to using a two-stage trigger AR-15, including:
- Increased precision: The two-stage trigger allows for more precise control of the trigger pull, which can lead to improved accuracy.
- Reduced recoil: The two-stage trigger can help to reduce recoil, making it easier to stay on target for follow-up shots.
- Improved safety: The two-stage trigger can help to prevent accidental discharges by requiring the shooter to intentionally pull through the second stage of the trigger pull.
What are the disadvantages of a two-stage trigger AR-15?
There are a few disadvantages to using a two-stage trigger AR-15, including:
- Increased cost: Two-stage triggers typically cost more than single-stage triggers.
- Increased complexity: Two-stage triggers are more complex than single-stage triggers, and may require more maintenance.
- Reduced speed: The two-stage trigger can slow down the firing rate, making it less suitable for fast-paced shooting applications.
How do I choose the right two-stage trigger AR-15 for me?
When choosing a two-stage trigger AR-15, there are a few factors you should consider, including:
- Your budget: Two-stage triggers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
- Your shooting needs: Two-stage triggers are available in a variety of weights and styles, so you can choose one that best suits your needs.
- Your skill level: Two-stage triggers can be challenging to use for novice shooters. If you are new to shooting, you may want to start with a single-stage trigger.
Where can I buy a two-stage trigger AR-15?
Two-stage triggers AR-15s are available from a variety of retailers, both online and offline. Some popular brands of two-stage triggers include Geissele, Timney, and Rise Armament.
What are some common problems with two-stage trigger AR-15s?
There are a few common problems that can occur with two-stage trigger AR-15s, including:
- Trigger creep: Trigger creep is a condition where the trigger moves slightly before it is fully released, which can lead to unintentional discharges.
- Trigger slap: Trigger slap is a condition where the trigger slams against the rear of the receiver, which can be uncomfortable for the shooter.
- Trigger stacking: Trigger stacking is a condition where the trigger becomes difficult to pull through the second stage of the trigger pull, which can make it difficult to fire the gun quickly.
How can I troubleshoot problems with my two-stage trigger AR-15?
If you are experiencing problems with your two-stage trigger AR-15, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue, including:
- Check the trigger for trigger creep or trigger slap. If the trigger is moving before it is fully released, or if it is slamming against the rear of the receiver, you may need to adjust the trigger or replace it with a new one.
- Check the trigger for trigger stacking. If the trigger is difficult to pull through the second stage of the trigger pull, you may need to adjust the trigger or replace it with a new one.
- Clean and lubricate the trigger. A dirty or dry trigger can cause problems with trigger pull, trigger creep, and trigger slap.
- Take your gun to a qualified gunsmith. If you are unable to troubleshoot the problem yourself, you may need to take your gun to a qualified gunsmith for help.
a two-stage trigger AR-15 is a type of semi-automatic rifle that has two distinct stages of trigger pull. The first stage is a light, non-firing pull that cocks the hammer. The second stage is a heavier, firing pull that releases the hammer and fires the rifle. Two-stage triggers are often preferred by precision shooters because they allow for more precise trigger control. However, they can also be more difficult to learn to shoot than single-stage triggers.
Here are some key takeaways about two-stage triggers:
- Two-stage triggers have two distinct stages of trigger pull.
- The first stage is a light, non-firing pull that cocks the hammer.
- The second stage is a heavier, firing pull that releases the hammer and fires the rifle.
- Two-stage triggers are often preferred by precision shooters because they allow for more precise trigger control.
- They can also be more difficult to learn to shoot than single-stage triggers.