Welcome to our comprehensive roundup post, where we will delve into the five best drop-in AR15 triggers that offer unbeatable value for your money.
Our curated list includes:
These exceptional triggers all come in a hassle-free drop-in package, making them incredibly straightforward to install. So, let's get you equipped check them out
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Best AR15 Drop In Triggers
"You will never have a perfectly still sight picture, so don't force it. Just be okay with the wobble and break the shot with a great trigger" - Jerry Miculek, American Pro Shooter
Timney Single Stage - Best Overall
- 3 lbs single stage trigger pull
- 0.154" Pin size
- Wire EDM S7 Tool Steel
- Curved trigger
- Best AVG split Time - 0.2 sec
Balanced Speed & Reliability - This AR15 trigger offers a perfect mix of quick response and dependability. It's easy to install, with no pre-travel or post-travel.
It's a top pick for tactical shooting enthusiasts. With its great performance and user-friendly features, it's a favorite among AR15 fans, whether hobbyists or pros.
What People Love - A standout feature is the trigger's clear feel during the reset. It feels like a spring helps it reset faster.
The trigger's hammer is made from S7 tool steel, known for its strength and durability, ensuring it lasts long.
You can choose this AR15 trigger in pull weights of 4 lbs or 4.5 lbs, suiting different shooting needs. It also offers two trigger designs: flat and skeletonized, for better control and looks.
AR Gold 2-Stage - Best For Precision Shooting
- 3.5 lbs single stage trigger pull
- 0.154" Pin size
- Curved trigger
- Best AVG Split Time - 0.12 sec
With over 7 years of trusted use in the field, this trigger is designed for competition and long-range precision shooters.
No take up = fast shooting speed - This trigger upgrade provides the perfect break over even a 2 stage trigger, and its extremely short reset takes care of itself during recoil without the shooter having to consciously control it.
Safety mechanism - The AR Gold has an extra "intercepting" sear. If the hammer is knocked off the main sear with the trigger forward, this feature stops it. But the rifle can still fire without needing to reset the hammer.
Robust and reliable - This trigger is made from wire EDM S7 tool steel, this trigger is more durable and lasts longer than regular triggers.
Available in a curved or a flat trigger bow (Note: Does not work with Colt sear block)
CMC Combat Curve CCT - Best For Combat
- 3.5 lbs single stage trigger pull
- 0.154" Pin size
- Hybrid trigger
- Best AVG split Time - 0.13 sec
Best for Combat - The CMC CCT features a unique trigger bow that blends the traditional curved design with the positioning of a flat trigger. This innovative mix is specially designed for today's soldiers.
Top-Notch Trigger Performance - Like other top drop-in triggers, the CMC CCT delivers excellent performance. It provides a smooth feel, crisp break, quick lock time, and rapid reset, making shooting a remarkable experience.
Elftman 3 Gun Trigger - Fastest Lock Time
- (2.75 - 4.0 lbs) single stage trigger pull
- 0.154" Pin size
- Flat or Curved trigger
- Best AVG split Time - 0.145 sec
Why everyone is moving to the ELF trigger - The adjustable ELF 3 gun trigger stands out for its incredibly smooth pull, powerful reset, and ultra-fast lock time.
Unique Spring: It uses Elftman's special double torsion piano wire hammer spring, ensuring consistent primer ignition with every quick pull.
Fast Reset Action: The ELF 3 gun trigger has a very short takeup and a sharp break, perfect for 3 gun competitors. Its speedy lock time means there's hardly any wait from when the trigger is pulled to when the bullet fires.
Strong Reset: The ELF trigger's strong reset allows for fast and dependable next shots, improving shooting accuracy.
Easy Adjustments: Shooters can quickly adjust the trigger pull weight, from 2.75 lbs to 4 lbs, without taking it out of the lower receiver. This lets them set the trigger just how they like it.
Note: This trigger works the best without any problem by using high-end lower receiver like LaRue, LMT, BCM, Noveske, Daniel Defense and others.
Common AR Trigger FAQ
Trigger Pull Weight Selection
2-2.5 lbs - Great for stationary long range shooting, and the lighter trigger pull eliminates finger muscle tension during yhe shot
3-3.5 lbs - Great for all applications including hunting, competition and target shooting
4 lbs - Great for cold weather and anytime shooting while wearing gloves, where the tactile sensation of the trigger index finger is significantly reduced.
Flat or Curved Trigger Shoe
A flat trigger shoe often gives shooters a clear feel, helping with quicker follow-up shots. Some skilled shooters even move their finger lower on it for a lighter pull as a trick.
A curved trigger shoe is more traditional and usually matches the curve of a shooter's fingertip. In the end, it's all about personal preference.
Single Stage VS. 2 Stage Trigger
Img Referenced Glen Zediker
A single-stage trigger breaks instantly without any extra movement, letting shooters fire quickly in semi-automatic mode. It's mainly used in ARs for medium-range or close combat to increase speed. But it might not be everyone's favorite.
Many people prefer a two-stage trigger. We believe it's safer because it lets the shooter get ready for the shot after the first stage.
Usually, the first stage has a 2.5 lbs pull, and the second stage has about a 1.2 lbs pull. This lighter second stage improves accuracy for long-distance shots by reducing finger movement by almost 90%.
A two-stage trigger is also great for teaching new shooters. It's easier to learn with than the usual 5.5 - 8 lbs trigger pull.
Should You Upgrade Your AR Trigger?
Once you have mastered trigger control with a factory trigger, then it's time to upgrade.
For long range shooters especially, upgrading to a good quality 2 stage trigger makes night and day differences.
Aftermarket trigger generally improves the following:
- Smoother trigger pull
- Shorter reset
- Shorter pre travel
- Faster lock time
- Crispier break
All these improvements make the gun easier to shoot and more predictable with a crisp trigger break, which makes a big difference in the overall feel of the rifle.
Please also check out these bad ass AR15 accessories to make your rifle even more fun to shoot.
Are Anti Rotational Pins Required?
Use anti-rotation pins, also called anti-walk pins, to securely hold your AR-15 parts. These pins use screws to keep the trigger pins in place, offering more security than just the hammer spring.
Why does it matter? Sometimes, regular trigger pins might not hold the trigger groups tightly inside the receiver. When the hammer and trigger move around their pin, the pin could slide out.
With anti-walk pins, this worry goes away. They make sure the pins stay put while you use your AR-15.