The Best Tips on How to Choose the Right Trigger
Choosing the right trigger for your firearm is crucial. Consider factors like weight, pull length, and safety features. Test options before committing to find the best fit.
Introduction
Time to read: 6 minutes
Date: July 6, 2023
When it comes to firearms, the trigger serves as the crucial link between the shooter and the weapon. It is the component that fires the bullet and has a significant impact on accuracy, performance, and safety. Choosing the right trigger for your firearm is essential. In this article, we will explore the various types of triggers, important factors to consider when selecting a trigger, and tips for installing and testing your new trigger.
Table of Contents
Types of Triggers
In short, single-action triggers are faster than two-action triggers. Two-action triggers are preferred by some long-range shooters for their ability to “prep” the first action, while others prefer short creep, extremely light, single-action triggers. Two-action triggers are most beneficial in high-stress situations where accidental discharges can be deadly. They allow for greater control and can prevent accidental discharge when adrenaline and stress levels are high.
Single-action only
The SAO trigger has only one job or action: to release the external hammer when pulled, thus firing the gun. For the hammer to release, it must first be manually pulled back, cocked, into position by the shooter through the cycling of the slide. These triggers are famous for having very light triggers and very little travel. Less movement and pressure required to complete the trigger press means less opportunity to move the gun off target while taking the shot.
Double-action only (DAO)
The DAO trigger performs two tasks, both cocking and releasing the hammer. Double-Action-Only incorporates an internal (shrouded) hammer that the shooter can not access. DAO firearms have a notoriously “heavier” trigger pull because there is more spring tension to overcome to enable the gun to fire. The trigger pressed rearward automatically draws the hammer back to cock it and then releases the hammer at the end of the trigger’s travel.
Double-action/single-action (DA/SA)
The DA/SA trigger action functions as a double-action or single-action firearm. The initial load and make-ready procedure on a DA/SA firearm requires a final step of utilizing the decocker lever to safely lower the hammer to its resting position without firing the pistol. The first shot will have the classic long, heavy trigger pull of a DA gun. However, the cycling of the slide itself will automatically cock the hammer for the next shot, setting the trigger action into SA, resulting in a short, light trigger press.
Striker Fire (SF)
Striker Fire (SF) action does not have a hammer at all. Instead, it has an entirely internal and different firing system. The process of cocking the internal firing pin striker begins when the first round is chambered or the slide is cycled. When the trigger is pulled, the spring-loaded striker is released, hitting the cartridge primer and thus firing the gun. Striker-fired handguns are also categorized as single-action because the trigger both cocks and releases the firing mechanism.
How to Choose the Right Trigger for your Firearm
When selecting a new handgun, much emphasis is placed on ergonomics, proportionality, and budget, but how often do we consider action type in making this important choice? Often the action type is glossed over and discussed in over-simplified terms to generalize the safety benefits the salesperson or other family member may feel best suits the shooter.
An action is categorized by the functional mechanisms that enable the gun to fire when the trigger is pulled. For handguns, multiple action types fall into hammer-fired or striker-fired, some of which can operate in single or double-action and can also be available in revolver or semi-automatic models.
Important Factors to Consider
Factors to consider in a trigger include: weight, pull length, reset speed, and safety features. Heavier triggers can be beneficial for precision work as they require more effort to pull and can help reduce the risk of accidental discharge. Longer pulls can provide greater accuracy, but they may slow down follow-up shots.
Shorter pulls can provide faster follow-up shots but may not be as accurate. It’s important to find a balance between the weight and pull length that works best for you and your firearm, taking into account the purpose of your firearm and your shooting preferences.
Furthermore, a short reset allows you to quickly fire multiple rounds in succession, while a longer reset requires more time between each shot but can help improve accuracy. It’s important to find a balance between reset speed and accuracy, based on the intended use of the firearm.
For example, a short reset trigger might be preferable for competition shooting or self-defense situations where faster follow-up shots are crucial, while a longer reset trigger may be better suited for precision shooting.
Safety features such as a trigger lock, trigger guard, and drop safety are also important considerations to prevent accidental discharges. Taking the time to consider these factors and test different triggers can help you select a trigger that best suits your needs and preferences.
Dangers of an Improper Trigger
A bad trigger job can make a handgun perform like a full-auto, which is illegal and dangerous. It can also cause the gun to fire without the trigger being pulled, resulting in a potentially deadly situation. It’s not worth the risk of doing it yourself when a professional can do it safely and effectively. A poorly executed trigger job can even decrease the gun’s performance or render it inoperable.
Testing Triggers
There are a few options for trying out various triggers before committing to a purchase. You can practice pulling the trigger and seeing how it feels with a laser training system. The trigger can also be put to the test by firing it in competitive shooting situations.
It is possible to determine which trigger best suits your needs by trying out a variety of options. Investing in the time to investigate and try out various triggers can pay dividends in terms of precision, security, and top-notch operation.
Need more info on accessories that can take help you take your competition shooting performance to the next level? Check out our other articles!
–The Best Guide on how to Wear a Competition Gun Belt
–What are the Best Brands of Shooting Gloves?
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right trigger for your firearm is crucial to optimal performance. A good trigger should be smooth, consistent, and reliable. Weight, pull length, reset speed, and safety features are all important factors to consider when making your selection. Each type of trigger–whether it be a single-action, double-action, or striker-fired–has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Testing different triggers before making a purchase is important, and consulting an experienced gunsmith can provide valuable advice and guidance. Finally, installation should be done with the proper tools and knowledge, and testing the new trigger at a shooting range or on private property is necessary to ensure proper functionality.
Remember, the trigger is the most important factor to consider when selecting a handgun for competition shooting or personal protection, so take the time to make the right choice.
At GunAim.com, we believe that knowledge is power. Our mission is to empower gun owners and enthusiasts with the information they need to make informed purchasing decisions. We don't just tell you what to buy - we give you the facts and let you decide for yourself.
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