I found this nice little review article which illustrates a very good comparative review of many AR15 triggers, it's from Recoilweb by Steve Kuo, graphics and pictures by Jorge Nunez
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Trigger Glossary
Break: The moment when the sear surface releases the hammer as you are pressing the trigger.
Creep: Generally refers to undesirable take-up or slack in a single-stage trigger, or more specifically when the movement of the sear surface against the hammer hook can be felt (in an unpleasant way).
Disconnector: The part that holds the hammer back after the trigger has been pulled and the action cycles. It will release the hammer to the sear mechanism once the trigger is allowed to move back forward.
Hammer: The part, under spring tension, that falls forward once released to strike the firing pin and detonate the primer in the chambered cartridge.
Lock time: The time that elapses between the sear surface releasing the hammer and the cartridge primer igniting after being struck by the firing pin.
Over-travel: The distance the trigger bow continues to move rearward (unnecessarily) after the sear has already been released.
Reset: If you continue to hold the trigger back after discharging the firearm, the hammer will be captured by the disconnector so that it doesn’t follow the bolt forward. As you slowly ease the trigger back forward, the hammer will be released back to the sear (usually with an audible and tactile click), at which point you can press the trigger again to break another shot. This is referred to as the reset. If you do not release the trigger far enough forward to the reset point, you will not be able to fire another shot. Generally speaking, the shorter the reset, the easier it is to quickly shoot successive shots.
Sear: The part or surface that releases the hammer to fall forward and strike the firing pin once the prescribed amount of pressure has been applied to the trigger.
Single-stage: Trigger system in which you must overcome all the resistance at once.
Stacking: A largely undesirable phenomenon in which the trigger-pull weight feels as if it is increasing right before the trigger breaks.
Take-up (slack): Rearward movement of the trigger prior to sear engagement.
Trigger bow: The portion of the trigger that extends out and that you actually press to discharge the weapon.
Two-stage: Trigger system in which there is an initial stage where the trigger moves to the rear with some amount of resistance (often referred to as “taking up the slack”), followed by a distinct second stage where the trigger breaks after applying an additional amount of force.
Trigger Review:
Alexander Arms: Tactical Blade-Style Trigger Kit
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4lb
Bow Width: 0.14″
$185
First Impressions: Made of chrome-plated tool steel, this is a nice single-stage trigger that can be adjusted to minimize sear engagement and eliminate over-travel. Set at the minimum, there is still some trigger movement before the clean break. Reset is positive and moderately short. The trigger bow is quite narrow with distinct edges – this may or may not be to your liking, but it was by design to assist in accurate referencing of the trigger finger with gloves or in cold/wet conditions. Some scratchiness where the wide base of the trigger bow rubbed the side of the opening in our test lower. Comes with replacement pins.
ALG Defense: ALG Combat Trigger
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 5.3lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$65
First Impressions: If you’re seeking the ultimate Mil-spec trigger, check this out. Components are coated differently with nickel, boron, and Teflon to reduce friction between parts and improve the trigger feel and wear resistance. Sear geometry is unchanged from stock triggers. Heavier than the match triggers in this guide with more trigger travel, but provided a clean, consistent break with minimal over-travel. Reset was long but distinct. Trigger pull is rated at 5.5 pounds or higher, but ours broke slightly under that. Comes with replacement pins.
ALG Defense: Quality Mil-Spec Trigger
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 6.2lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$45
First Impressions: Essentially the same as the ACT trigger, but without the slick coatings. It was not quite as refined with a bit of creep, but it broke cleanly with minimal over-travel. Reset was also long but distinct. Sear geometry is unchanged from stock triggers. Trigger pull is rated at 5.5 pounds or higher, with most expected to be around 6.5 pounds – ours was just under that. The QMS is no match trigger, but it’s a marked improvement over a stock trigger for just $45. Comes with replacement pins.
American Trigger: AR Gold
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 2.38lb
Bow Width: 0.19″
$300
First Impressions: Not cheap but revered by many three-gunners. It is reminiscent of a tuned 1911 or 2011, with short and extremely light take-up followed by a crisp and light break. Trigger bow is narrow. Reset was absurdly short, but rather subtle. Unlike the other two-stage triggers in this guide, the reset returns to the second stage rather than a full stroke through the first. Mechanically, the trigger system is safe with an additional interceptor, but you better do your part because our sample tested lower than rated at 2.4 pounds.
Black Rain Ordnance: Trigger Group
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.75lb
Bow Width: 0.25″
$200
First Impressions: This drop-in trigger is easy to install. It had some over-travel in our test lower, with a bit of bounce after the trigger breaks. For some shooters, this detracted a bit from an otherwise nice trigger that broke cleanly. Reset was distinct and moderate in length.
Bushmaster: Bushmaster Two-Stage Competition Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 5.25lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$132
First Impressions: This two-stage trigger has set screws to eliminate over-travel and adjust the sear engagement. The first stage on our sample was a bit rough, which Bushmaster advises will smooth out once broken in. The second stage broke cleanly with a positive reset. Our trigger was heavier than the rated 4.5 pounds, and likely needs more use to settle in. Comes with a modified safety selector that houses the adjustable set screws.
CMC Triggers: CMC Tactical Curved Trigger (3.5-Pound)
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.5lb
Bow Width: 0.31″
$210
First Impressions: This self-contained, drop-in trigger had a light, crisp break with no creep. Afterwards, if you release the trigger very slowly it can sometimes feel a bit rough before it resets. C-clips secure the included hammer and trigger pins. The clips are tiny and we promptly lost one; fortunately, CMC provides extras in the package.
Geissele Automatics: Hi-Speed National Match Trigger – Designated Marksman Rifle Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 2.6lb to 5.4lb
Bow Width: 0.3″
$279
First Impressions: Designed for precision shooting, the DMR is a fully adjustable two-stage trigger. Adjusting the trigger spring dials in the first stage, and several set screws allow you to set second stage pull weight, sear engagement and over-travel (the latter adjustment is underneath the hammer making it a pain to adjust). The trigger has Geissele’s trademark two-stage feel, with a light, smooth first stage followed by a noticeable second stage. You can dial the second stage weight up or down to your preference, and the break is sublime. Geissele calls it “icicle-like.” Reset is positive. Hammer is lightened for a faster lock time, and the trigger bow is a bit wider than other Geissele triggers. Comes with replacement pins and fitting tools.
Geissele Automatics: Hi-Speed National Match Trigger – Match Rifle Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 1.8lb to 4.6lb
Bow Width: 0.3″
$279
First Impressions: Also designed for precision shooting, this is a lighter version of the DMR fully adjustable two-stage trigger. Adjustments are made in the same way, and you can dial this sucker all the way down to 1.8 pounds. The first stage is very light and smooth, leading to the noticeable second stage wall. The second stage can be set to almost hair trigger levels (around half a pound). Geissele calls it “icicle-like,” and that’s one thin icicle. Reset is positive but not short. Hammer is lightened for a faster lock time, and the trigger bow is a bit wider than other Geissele triggers. Comes with replacement pins and fitting tools.
Geissele Automatics: Super 3 Gun Trigger
Hybrid Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.1lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$250
First Impressions: Designed for fast and furious 3-gun matches, this hybrid trigger rolls smoothly and just breaks, followed by some overtravel. It has a short and positive reset, for quick follow up shots. Our sample was a bit lighter than the rated 3.5 pounds and was super smooth — it felt like it was rolling on ball bearings. Includes replacement pins.
Geissele Automatics: Super Dynamic Combat Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.9lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$230
First Impressions: A favorite of our SME Mike Pannone, this is a variation of Geissele’s SSA trigger with a straight trigger bow. Some of our staff really liked the straight trigger, and others not as much. Otherwise, it is similar to the SSA, with a smooth first stage, crisp second stage break, and minimal over-travel. Reset was distinct but not short. Comes with replacement pins. Its brethren, the Super Dynamic Enhanced trigger ($250), is half a pound lighter and is similarly a straight trigger variant of the SSA-E.
Geissele Automatics: Super Semi-Automatic Trigger and SSA-E
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 4lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$210
First Impressions: This classic from Geissele has a smooth first stage and a clean, crisp second stage break with minimal over-travel. Reset is on the long side but positive and distinct. The SSA boasts a Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Safety Certification and is in service with Special Operations troops. A hard use trigger, it is non-adjustable and made of tool steel with sear surfaces cut by a wire EDM machine. Its full-power hammer spring ensures ignition with all types of ammo. The Super Semi-Automatic Enhanced model ($230) is similar with a lighter measured pull weight of 3.4 pounds.
Geissele Automatics: Super Tricon Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.5lb
Bow Width: 0.28″
$235
First Impressions: A variation of Geissele’s popular SSA trigger with design input from Jeff Gonzales of Trident Concepts, the Super Tricon has an interesting trigger bow, which has a ribbed surface and curved upper portion leading to a straight surface. We found it tended to guide our finger down to the straight portion, where there’s the most leverage. The first stage was somewhat long and the wall of the second stage was noticeable when we reached it. Break during the second stage was clean with minimal over-travel. Reset was relatively long but distinct. Comes with replacement pins.
Hiperfire: Hipertouch 24Competition
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 2.4, 3.1, or 3.4lb
Bow Width: 0.3″, 0.5″ with trigger shoe
$235
First Impressions: Hiperfire doesn’t mind thinking outside the box. Comes with three sets of springs to set desired trigger pull weight without any adjustable screws. It has a crisp light break with no over-travel, as well as a short trigger stroke and reset. The straight trigger has an optional red finger pad that clips on to the trigger bow in one of five positions. Some liked it, finding it helped with indexing the trigger finger and providing extra leverage, but it needn’t be installed for those who didn’t. The trigger on safe is nice and tight. Includes three sets of springs, replacement pins and the trigger shoe.
Hiperfire: Hipertouch 24Elite
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 2.75, 3.56, or 4lb
Bow Width: 0.3″
$215
First Impressions: Its unique geometry allows users to set desired trigger pull weight by simply switching out sets of springs, with no adjustable screws. It has a crisp break with no over-travel, as well as a short trigger stroke and reset. The trigger on safe is snug as a bug. Includes three sets of springs and replacement pins.
JARD: AR-15 Single-Stage Trigger System
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.5lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$149
First Impressions: This value-priced trigger had a pretty clean break, but some over-travel. Reset was a bit long, but very distinct. Our sample broke at 3.5 pounds, half a pound heavier than the rated weight. Springs can be swapped out to adjust pull weight. Comes with posi-lock tension plate to secure pins.
JARD: AR-15 Adjustable Single-Stage Trigger System
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3lb
Bow Width: 0.3″
$149
First Impressions: This value-priced trigger had a clean break, but noticeable travel through the single stage. Adjustments made with set screws; the hammer needs to be removed to access the over-travel screw, making it fussy to set. Pull weight can be changed by swapping out the trigger spring. Reset was a bit long, but very distinct. Comes with posi-lock tension plate to secure pins.
JP Enterprises: JP EZ Trigger
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.75lb, 4.5lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$260
First Impressions: Long considered a benchmark for single-stage triggers, JP released the JP EZ system for a much easier installation than its classic trigger. By adjusting a few set screws, you end up with the trademark crisp JP feel – short travel, perfect break, and short positive reset. The included adjustable safety removes all slop when on safe. Also comes with two hammer springs and oversize anti-walk pins.
JP Enterprises: JP Original Fire Control Kit *with Speed Hammer
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.3lb, 4lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$120
First Impressions: This is the original JP trigger that set the benchmark for single-stage AR triggers. There’s a reason JP has a devoted following. If you’re willing to spend some time and effort to install and fit it, this kit will reward you with short travel, a crisp break, and short positive reset – for a reasonable price. Comes with two hammer springs to set the pull weight. Does not include replacement hammer (the JP Speed Hammer pictured here is an additional $60).
Knight’s Armament Co.: 2-Stage 4.5-lb Match Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.5lb
Bow Width: 0.28″
$264
First Impressions: This trigger has a light first stage with a distinct, heavier second stage, with some travel through the second stage to the clean break. There’s minimal over-travel with a somewhat long reset and some bounce back to the second stage. Features a nickel-boron coating and includes replacement pins.
LWRC International: Enhanced Fire Control Group Assembly
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 6.75lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$115
First Impressions: This affordable option has nickel-Teflon-coated components. Trigger feel was just a bit improved from stock, featuring a long trigger stroke with some notchy creep. It had a long but strong reset and minimal over-travel. Includes pins and safety selector, spring, and detent.
Patriot Ordnance Factory: Drop-In Trigger System
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4lb
Bow Width: 0.25″
$200
First Impressions: Drop-in unit was simple to install. Single stage trigger broke cleanly with no pre- or over-travel. Reset was moderate in length but felt a bit scratchy during the return stroke. The trigger bow was less rounded than others, with noticeable corners. Nitride heat-treated and comes with KNS Precision anti-walk pins.
Patriot Ordnance Factory: Drop-In Trigger System (Enhanced Finger Placement)
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.56lb
Bow Width: 0.25″
$230
First Impressions: This Nitride heat-treated, drop-in unit was a tight fit in our lower receiver. Unique trigger bow is designed to guide your finger to the tip of the bow. It takes some getting used to – might be a love-hate thing. It crowds a standard trigger guard uncomfortably, so an extended trigger guard is advised. It had short travel and reset; we detected some slight notchiness when pressed very slowly. Clean break and no over-travel. Our sample measured a half-pound heavier than the rated 4 pounds. Comes with KNS Precision anti-walk pins.
Rock River Arms: Two-Stage Match Trigger Kit
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 5.44lb
Bow Width: 0.3″
$120
First Impressions: An economical trigger, but its first stage was not as smooth as others, though the heavier second stage broke cleanly. Reset was on the long side, but distinct. Pull weight was heavier than we like in a match trigger. Trigger bow is wider than most. Disconnector is captured, making it easy to install. Includes replacement pins.
Spike’s Tactical: Battle Trigger
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 6.94lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$60
First Impressions: This trigger is nickel-boron coated. The feel was a bit improved over a stock trigger, but was rather rough and heavy. There was minimal over-travel with a long but distinct reset. Comes with replacement pins. On the plus side, it’s the most affordable option among those we tested.
Timney Triggers: AR-15 Competition
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.125lb
Bow Width: 0.25″
$220
First Impressions: Easily installed drop-in, single-stage trigger, with set screws that butt against the floor of your lower to secure the trigger and hammer pins. The trigger broke crisply with no take-up or over-travel. It had a hint of travel through the single stage if you were very deliberate. Reset is positive and relatively short. Trigger bow is very flat and corners are a bit sharp.
Timney Triggers: AR-15 Skeletonized
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3lb
Bow Width: 0.25″
$280
First Impressions: This is a quality drop-in, single-stage trigger. It had a short trigger stroke and reset with a crisp break and no over-travel. If you try hard and press slowly, you can feel a bit of travel through the first stage before the break. Trigger bow is very flat and corners are a bit sharp. Set screws secure the drop-in cassette in the lower.
Viking Tactics: Geissele Super V
Hybrid Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.63lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$240
First Impressions: Designed for Viking Tactics by Geissele, it is essentially a heavier version of Geissele’s popular Super 3 Gun Trigger. Described as a hybrid single-stage design, the Super V felt like it rolled smoothly to the break, with some over-travel afterward. Reset was relatively short and assisted by a strong trigger spring. Includes replacement pins.
Wilson Combat: Tactical Trigger Unit, Single Stage
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.3lb
Bow Width: 0.27″
$270
*sorry guys, I couldn't find the graphic for this one*
First Impressions: This drop-in trigger had a great single-stage feel, with no take-up at all, a crisp break, and no over-travel. The reset was a relatively short and distinct. The trigger is rated at 4 pounds, but our test trigger was much lighter. Springs on the bottom of the cassette keep the trigger tight. Made of solid bar stock with steel bushings for the hammer and trigger pins. The hammer features a half-#### reminiscent of Wilson’s 1911s as an extra measure of safety. Comes with replacement pins.
Wilson Combat: Tactical Trigger Unit, Single Stage Mil/LE
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.5lb
Bow Width: 0.28″
$270
First Impressions: Intended for duty use, this version of Wilson’s drop-in trigger features a single stage trigger that is rated for 5 to 5.5 pounds. Ours measured at 4.5 pounds. The trigger had a hint of travel through the single stage, but broke cleanly with no over-travel. The reset was a relatively short and distinct. Made of solid bar stock with steel bushings for the hammer and trigger pins. The hammer features a half-#### reminiscent of Wilson’s 1911s as an extra measure of safety. Comes with replacement pins.
Wilson Combat: Tactical Trigger Unit, Two Stage
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.38lb
Bow Width: 0.26″
$270
First Impressions: This drop-in trigger had an excellent feel — a short first stage and crisp second stage with no over-travel. There was a moderate but distinct reset. Our sample was quite a bit lighter than the rated 4 pounds. Note the bushings can drift when not captured in the lower; while taking photos, a D-clip came off and was a bit tricky to reinstall. Springs on the bottom of the cassette keep the trigger feeling tight. Comes with replacement pins.
Wilson Combat: Tactical Trigger Unit, 3 Gun
Hybrid Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.1lb
Bow Width: 0.26″
$270
First Impressions: This drop-in trigger felt like a hybrid single-stage design, rolling a short distance to the clean break. It really felt like a Geissele Super 3 Gun trigger without any over-travel. The reset was quite strong, almost bouncy. Rated at 3.5 to 4 pounds, our trigger measured just over 3 pounds. The trigger bow is also thinner than the other Wilson units. Comes with replacement pins.
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CHARTS
Sorted by pull weight
All triggers:
2 Stage:
Single Stage:
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Trigger Glossary
Break: The moment when the sear surface releases the hammer as you are pressing the trigger.
Creep: Generally refers to undesirable take-up or slack in a single-stage trigger, or more specifically when the movement of the sear surface against the hammer hook can be felt (in an unpleasant way).
Disconnector: The part that holds the hammer back after the trigger has been pulled and the action cycles. It will release the hammer to the sear mechanism once the trigger is allowed to move back forward.
Hammer: The part, under spring tension, that falls forward once released to strike the firing pin and detonate the primer in the chambered cartridge.
Lock time: The time that elapses between the sear surface releasing the hammer and the cartridge primer igniting after being struck by the firing pin.
Over-travel: The distance the trigger bow continues to move rearward (unnecessarily) after the sear has already been released.
Reset: If you continue to hold the trigger back after discharging the firearm, the hammer will be captured by the disconnector so that it doesn’t follow the bolt forward. As you slowly ease the trigger back forward, the hammer will be released back to the sear (usually with an audible and tactile click), at which point you can press the trigger again to break another shot. This is referred to as the reset. If you do not release the trigger far enough forward to the reset point, you will not be able to fire another shot. Generally speaking, the shorter the reset, the easier it is to quickly shoot successive shots.
Sear: The part or surface that releases the hammer to fall forward and strike the firing pin once the prescribed amount of pressure has been applied to the trigger.
Single-stage: Trigger system in which you must overcome all the resistance at once.
Stacking: A largely undesirable phenomenon in which the trigger-pull weight feels as if it is increasing right before the trigger breaks.
Take-up (slack): Rearward movement of the trigger prior to sear engagement.
Trigger bow: The portion of the trigger that extends out and that you actually press to discharge the weapon.
Two-stage: Trigger system in which there is an initial stage where the trigger moves to the rear with some amount of resistance (often referred to as “taking up the slack”), followed by a distinct second stage where the trigger breaks after applying an additional amount of force.
Trigger Review:
Alexander Arms: Tactical Blade-Style Trigger Kit
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4lb
Bow Width: 0.14″
$185
First Impressions: Made of chrome-plated tool steel, this is a nice single-stage trigger that can be adjusted to minimize sear engagement and eliminate over-travel. Set at the minimum, there is still some trigger movement before the clean break. Reset is positive and moderately short. The trigger bow is quite narrow with distinct edges – this may or may not be to your liking, but it was by design to assist in accurate referencing of the trigger finger with gloves or in cold/wet conditions. Some scratchiness where the wide base of the trigger bow rubbed the side of the opening in our test lower. Comes with replacement pins.
ALG Defense: ALG Combat Trigger
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 5.3lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$65
First Impressions: If you’re seeking the ultimate Mil-spec trigger, check this out. Components are coated differently with nickel, boron, and Teflon to reduce friction between parts and improve the trigger feel and wear resistance. Sear geometry is unchanged from stock triggers. Heavier than the match triggers in this guide with more trigger travel, but provided a clean, consistent break with minimal over-travel. Reset was long but distinct. Trigger pull is rated at 5.5 pounds or higher, but ours broke slightly under that. Comes with replacement pins.
ALG Defense: Quality Mil-Spec Trigger
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 6.2lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$45
First Impressions: Essentially the same as the ACT trigger, but without the slick coatings. It was not quite as refined with a bit of creep, but it broke cleanly with minimal over-travel. Reset was also long but distinct. Sear geometry is unchanged from stock triggers. Trigger pull is rated at 5.5 pounds or higher, with most expected to be around 6.5 pounds – ours was just under that. The QMS is no match trigger, but it’s a marked improvement over a stock trigger for just $45. Comes with replacement pins.
American Trigger: AR Gold
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 2.38lb
Bow Width: 0.19″
$300
First Impressions: Not cheap but revered by many three-gunners. It is reminiscent of a tuned 1911 or 2011, with short and extremely light take-up followed by a crisp and light break. Trigger bow is narrow. Reset was absurdly short, but rather subtle. Unlike the other two-stage triggers in this guide, the reset returns to the second stage rather than a full stroke through the first. Mechanically, the trigger system is safe with an additional interceptor, but you better do your part because our sample tested lower than rated at 2.4 pounds.
Black Rain Ordnance: Trigger Group
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.75lb
Bow Width: 0.25″
$200
First Impressions: This drop-in trigger is easy to install. It had some over-travel in our test lower, with a bit of bounce after the trigger breaks. For some shooters, this detracted a bit from an otherwise nice trigger that broke cleanly. Reset was distinct and moderate in length.
Bushmaster: Bushmaster Two-Stage Competition Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 5.25lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$132
First Impressions: This two-stage trigger has set screws to eliminate over-travel and adjust the sear engagement. The first stage on our sample was a bit rough, which Bushmaster advises will smooth out once broken in. The second stage broke cleanly with a positive reset. Our trigger was heavier than the rated 4.5 pounds, and likely needs more use to settle in. Comes with a modified safety selector that houses the adjustable set screws.
CMC Triggers: CMC Tactical Curved Trigger (3.5-Pound)
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.5lb
Bow Width: 0.31″
$210
First Impressions: This self-contained, drop-in trigger had a light, crisp break with no creep. Afterwards, if you release the trigger very slowly it can sometimes feel a bit rough before it resets. C-clips secure the included hammer and trigger pins. The clips are tiny and we promptly lost one; fortunately, CMC provides extras in the package.
Geissele Automatics: Hi-Speed National Match Trigger – Designated Marksman Rifle Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 2.6lb to 5.4lb
Bow Width: 0.3″
$279
First Impressions: Designed for precision shooting, the DMR is a fully adjustable two-stage trigger. Adjusting the trigger spring dials in the first stage, and several set screws allow you to set second stage pull weight, sear engagement and over-travel (the latter adjustment is underneath the hammer making it a pain to adjust). The trigger has Geissele’s trademark two-stage feel, with a light, smooth first stage followed by a noticeable second stage. You can dial the second stage weight up or down to your preference, and the break is sublime. Geissele calls it “icicle-like.” Reset is positive. Hammer is lightened for a faster lock time, and the trigger bow is a bit wider than other Geissele triggers. Comes with replacement pins and fitting tools.
Geissele Automatics: Hi-Speed National Match Trigger – Match Rifle Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 1.8lb to 4.6lb
Bow Width: 0.3″
$279
First Impressions: Also designed for precision shooting, this is a lighter version of the DMR fully adjustable two-stage trigger. Adjustments are made in the same way, and you can dial this sucker all the way down to 1.8 pounds. The first stage is very light and smooth, leading to the noticeable second stage wall. The second stage can be set to almost hair trigger levels (around half a pound). Geissele calls it “icicle-like,” and that’s one thin icicle. Reset is positive but not short. Hammer is lightened for a faster lock time, and the trigger bow is a bit wider than other Geissele triggers. Comes with replacement pins and fitting tools.
Geissele Automatics: Super 3 Gun Trigger
Hybrid Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.1lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$250
First Impressions: Designed for fast and furious 3-gun matches, this hybrid trigger rolls smoothly and just breaks, followed by some overtravel. It has a short and positive reset, for quick follow up shots. Our sample was a bit lighter than the rated 3.5 pounds and was super smooth — it felt like it was rolling on ball bearings. Includes replacement pins.
Geissele Automatics: Super Dynamic Combat Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.9lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$230
First Impressions: A favorite of our SME Mike Pannone, this is a variation of Geissele’s SSA trigger with a straight trigger bow. Some of our staff really liked the straight trigger, and others not as much. Otherwise, it is similar to the SSA, with a smooth first stage, crisp second stage break, and minimal over-travel. Reset was distinct but not short. Comes with replacement pins. Its brethren, the Super Dynamic Enhanced trigger ($250), is half a pound lighter and is similarly a straight trigger variant of the SSA-E.
Geissele Automatics: Super Semi-Automatic Trigger and SSA-E
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 4lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$210
First Impressions: This classic from Geissele has a smooth first stage and a clean, crisp second stage break with minimal over-travel. Reset is on the long side but positive and distinct. The SSA boasts a Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Safety Certification and is in service with Special Operations troops. A hard use trigger, it is non-adjustable and made of tool steel with sear surfaces cut by a wire EDM machine. Its full-power hammer spring ensures ignition with all types of ammo. The Super Semi-Automatic Enhanced model ($230) is similar with a lighter measured pull weight of 3.4 pounds.
Geissele Automatics: Super Tricon Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.5lb
Bow Width: 0.28″
$235
First Impressions: A variation of Geissele’s popular SSA trigger with design input from Jeff Gonzales of Trident Concepts, the Super Tricon has an interesting trigger bow, which has a ribbed surface and curved upper portion leading to a straight surface. We found it tended to guide our finger down to the straight portion, where there’s the most leverage. The first stage was somewhat long and the wall of the second stage was noticeable when we reached it. Break during the second stage was clean with minimal over-travel. Reset was relatively long but distinct. Comes with replacement pins.
Hiperfire: Hipertouch 24Competition
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 2.4, 3.1, or 3.4lb
Bow Width: 0.3″, 0.5″ with trigger shoe
$235
First Impressions: Hiperfire doesn’t mind thinking outside the box. Comes with three sets of springs to set desired trigger pull weight without any adjustable screws. It has a crisp light break with no over-travel, as well as a short trigger stroke and reset. The straight trigger has an optional red finger pad that clips on to the trigger bow in one of five positions. Some liked it, finding it helped with indexing the trigger finger and providing extra leverage, but it needn’t be installed for those who didn’t. The trigger on safe is nice and tight. Includes three sets of springs, replacement pins and the trigger shoe.
Hiperfire: Hipertouch 24Elite
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 2.75, 3.56, or 4lb
Bow Width: 0.3″
$215
First Impressions: Its unique geometry allows users to set desired trigger pull weight by simply switching out sets of springs, with no adjustable screws. It has a crisp break with no over-travel, as well as a short trigger stroke and reset. The trigger on safe is snug as a bug. Includes three sets of springs and replacement pins.
JARD: AR-15 Single-Stage Trigger System
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.5lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$149
First Impressions: This value-priced trigger had a pretty clean break, but some over-travel. Reset was a bit long, but very distinct. Our sample broke at 3.5 pounds, half a pound heavier than the rated weight. Springs can be swapped out to adjust pull weight. Comes with posi-lock tension plate to secure pins.
JARD: AR-15 Adjustable Single-Stage Trigger System
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3lb
Bow Width: 0.3″
$149
First Impressions: This value-priced trigger had a clean break, but noticeable travel through the single stage. Adjustments made with set screws; the hammer needs to be removed to access the over-travel screw, making it fussy to set. Pull weight can be changed by swapping out the trigger spring. Reset was a bit long, but very distinct. Comes with posi-lock tension plate to secure pins.
JP Enterprises: JP EZ Trigger
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.75lb, 4.5lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$260
First Impressions: Long considered a benchmark for single-stage triggers, JP released the JP EZ system for a much easier installation than its classic trigger. By adjusting a few set screws, you end up with the trademark crisp JP feel – short travel, perfect break, and short positive reset. The included adjustable safety removes all slop when on safe. Also comes with two hammer springs and oversize anti-walk pins.
JP Enterprises: JP Original Fire Control Kit *with Speed Hammer
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.3lb, 4lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$120
First Impressions: This is the original JP trigger that set the benchmark for single-stage AR triggers. There’s a reason JP has a devoted following. If you’re willing to spend some time and effort to install and fit it, this kit will reward you with short travel, a crisp break, and short positive reset – for a reasonable price. Comes with two hammer springs to set the pull weight. Does not include replacement hammer (the JP Speed Hammer pictured here is an additional $60).
Knight’s Armament Co.: 2-Stage 4.5-lb Match Trigger
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.5lb
Bow Width: 0.28″
$264
First Impressions: This trigger has a light first stage with a distinct, heavier second stage, with some travel through the second stage to the clean break. There’s minimal over-travel with a somewhat long reset and some bounce back to the second stage. Features a nickel-boron coating and includes replacement pins.
LWRC International: Enhanced Fire Control Group Assembly
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 6.75lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$115
First Impressions: This affordable option has nickel-Teflon-coated components. Trigger feel was just a bit improved from stock, featuring a long trigger stroke with some notchy creep. It had a long but strong reset and minimal over-travel. Includes pins and safety selector, spring, and detent.
Patriot Ordnance Factory: Drop-In Trigger System
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4lb
Bow Width: 0.25″
$200
First Impressions: Drop-in unit was simple to install. Single stage trigger broke cleanly with no pre- or over-travel. Reset was moderate in length but felt a bit scratchy during the return stroke. The trigger bow was less rounded than others, with noticeable corners. Nitride heat-treated and comes with KNS Precision anti-walk pins.
Patriot Ordnance Factory: Drop-In Trigger System (Enhanced Finger Placement)
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.56lb
Bow Width: 0.25″
$230
First Impressions: This Nitride heat-treated, drop-in unit was a tight fit in our lower receiver. Unique trigger bow is designed to guide your finger to the tip of the bow. It takes some getting used to – might be a love-hate thing. It crowds a standard trigger guard uncomfortably, so an extended trigger guard is advised. It had short travel and reset; we detected some slight notchiness when pressed very slowly. Clean break and no over-travel. Our sample measured a half-pound heavier than the rated 4 pounds. Comes with KNS Precision anti-walk pins.
Rock River Arms: Two-Stage Match Trigger Kit
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 5.44lb
Bow Width: 0.3″
$120
First Impressions: An economical trigger, but its first stage was not as smooth as others, though the heavier second stage broke cleanly. Reset was on the long side, but distinct. Pull weight was heavier than we like in a match trigger. Trigger bow is wider than most. Disconnector is captured, making it easy to install. Includes replacement pins.
Spike’s Tactical: Battle Trigger
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 6.94lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$60
First Impressions: This trigger is nickel-boron coated. The feel was a bit improved over a stock trigger, but was rather rough and heavy. There was minimal over-travel with a long but distinct reset. Comes with replacement pins. On the plus side, it’s the most affordable option among those we tested.
Timney Triggers: AR-15 Competition
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.125lb
Bow Width: 0.25″
$220
First Impressions: Easily installed drop-in, single-stage trigger, with set screws that butt against the floor of your lower to secure the trigger and hammer pins. The trigger broke crisply with no take-up or over-travel. It had a hint of travel through the single stage if you were very deliberate. Reset is positive and relatively short. Trigger bow is very flat and corners are a bit sharp.
Timney Triggers: AR-15 Skeletonized
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3lb
Bow Width: 0.25″
$280
First Impressions: This is a quality drop-in, single-stage trigger. It had a short trigger stroke and reset with a crisp break and no over-travel. If you try hard and press slowly, you can feel a bit of travel through the first stage before the break. Trigger bow is very flat and corners are a bit sharp. Set screws secure the drop-in cassette in the lower.
Viking Tactics: Geissele Super V
Hybrid Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.63lb
Bow Width: 0.29″
$240
First Impressions: Designed for Viking Tactics by Geissele, it is essentially a heavier version of Geissele’s popular Super 3 Gun Trigger. Described as a hybrid single-stage design, the Super V felt like it rolled smoothly to the break, with some over-travel afterward. Reset was relatively short and assisted by a strong trigger spring. Includes replacement pins.
Wilson Combat: Tactical Trigger Unit, Single Stage
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.3lb
Bow Width: 0.27″
$270
*sorry guys, I couldn't find the graphic for this one*
First Impressions: This drop-in trigger had a great single-stage feel, with no take-up at all, a crisp break, and no over-travel. The reset was a relatively short and distinct. The trigger is rated at 4 pounds, but our test trigger was much lighter. Springs on the bottom of the cassette keep the trigger tight. Made of solid bar stock with steel bushings for the hammer and trigger pins. The hammer features a half-#### reminiscent of Wilson’s 1911s as an extra measure of safety. Comes with replacement pins.
Wilson Combat: Tactical Trigger Unit, Single Stage Mil/LE
Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 4.5lb
Bow Width: 0.28″
$270
First Impressions: Intended for duty use, this version of Wilson’s drop-in trigger features a single stage trigger that is rated for 5 to 5.5 pounds. Ours measured at 4.5 pounds. The trigger had a hint of travel through the single stage, but broke cleanly with no over-travel. The reset was a relatively short and distinct. Made of solid bar stock with steel bushings for the hammer and trigger pins. The hammer features a half-#### reminiscent of Wilson’s 1911s as an extra measure of safety. Comes with replacement pins.
Wilson Combat: Tactical Trigger Unit, Two Stage
Two-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.38lb
Bow Width: 0.26″
$270
First Impressions: This drop-in trigger had an excellent feel — a short first stage and crisp second stage with no over-travel. There was a moderate but distinct reset. Our sample was quite a bit lighter than the rated 4 pounds. Note the bushings can drift when not captured in the lower; while taking photos, a D-clip came off and was a bit tricky to reinstall. Springs on the bottom of the cassette keep the trigger feeling tight. Comes with replacement pins.
Wilson Combat: Tactical Trigger Unit, 3 Gun
Hybrid Single-Stage
Pull Weight: 3.1lb
Bow Width: 0.26″
$270
First Impressions: This drop-in trigger felt like a hybrid single-stage design, rolling a short distance to the clean break. It really felt like a Geissele Super 3 Gun trigger without any over-travel. The reset was quite strong, almost bouncy. Rated at 3.5 to 4 pounds, our trigger measured just over 3 pounds. The trigger bow is also thinner than the other Wilson units. Comes with replacement pins.
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