For Serious Gun Lovers

4 Best AR-15 Triggers That Money Can Buy (in 2024)

ar-15 trigger installation

Have you ever wondered why an AR-Trigger upgrade is the best choice for your AR-15? Well, for one, you will definitely feel the difference between using a factory, stock trigger, and some of the best AR 15 triggers you can upgrade to. For the sake of this review, let’s go over some important facts about the AR-15.

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AR 15 Applications

Basically, the AR-15 is a semi-automatic rifle that is widely used for adaptable applications. These range from shooting and hunting to tactical, military work. For some gun owners, an AR-15 is a classic firearm just as it is with its original parts. Unfortunately for others, it’s used as a means of destruction, as evidenced by victims of the Parkland shooting massacre.

Making Your Best AR 15 With Trigger Upgrades

But sometimes, off-market pieces are required to create the best version of your AR-15, so you may have to decipher what you really need. For some gun owners, the AR-15 is a go-to choice because of the wide selection of triggers and accessories available.

With that said, we’ve outlined some facts on some of the best AR-15 triggers available to consumers. However, before we get into the nuts and bolts, let’s go over some key AR 15 Trigger Specifics …


What Does AR 15 Trigger Take-up Mean?

AR-15 trigger take up

The Trigger Take-up is the movement of the trigger that does not cause the sear to move. Nor does it engage the mainspring when you pull the trigger toward you. Any decent trigger will have minimal take-up. Basically, it’s that loose feeling you get before your trigger starts to depress the sear.

What is AR 15 Trigger Creep?

Trigger Creep is in direct contrast to Take-Up.  It means any positive movement of the trigger that causes the sear to move and engage the mainspring. It’s how far your trigger travels from when the sear begins to slide off the hammer, to the time the hammer actually strikes. The result is a loud boom noise. Essentially, it’s slowly depressing the trigger.

What is AR 15 Trigger Break?

AR 15 Drop In trigger

The trigger break is the point of the trigger action where the sear releases the hammer. But be careful, not all triggers are created equal, so not all triggers will break the same. Your trigger should always make a clean break.

What is AR 15 Trigger Weight?

Trigger weight refers to how much pulling pressure you must exert on the trigger to get it to break. Or fire the round.

What is Trigger Overtravel and Reset?

Overtravel is any amount of positive trigger movement following the break — how far your trigger continues pulling after the hammer breaks.

Trigger Reset

Reset is essentially how far the trigger has to back out to reset for your next shot. It’s the negative or forward movement of the trigger to the point that the trigger re-engages the sear.

Types of AR-15 Triggers

There are several different types of triggers available, each with its own set of pros and cons.

Single-stage AR 15 Triggers

Tigger Tech AR 15 trigger

A single-stage trigger is exactly what it sounds like. It pulls in one, singular stage from when your finger presses to the boom sound. There are basically no half stops or changes in trigger weight.

Two-stage AR Triggers

A two-stage trigger acts like a single-stage up to a certain area. A final set of travel — usually with much less weight, lets you get up to the breaking point.


AR 15 Trigger Tips

If you have been looking to find an AR trigger for various reasons like improved pull weight, or you require a trigger to travel shorter distances, you’re sure to find it after reading this article.

Ar-15 trigger assembly

First and foremost, it is absolutely essential to get a solid, smooth working trigger with the right pull weight and break. The trigger is the part of the firearm that’s the key interface between the weapon and the user. Secondly, in regards to customization if and when you purchase, you’ll get the trigger part itself.

Next, you need to assemble the lower receiver of the firearm. Basically, you get to customize your weapon according to your preference. And the commonly used triggers are the Drop-in Triggers.


AR 15 Trigger Assembly

These triggers are pretty easy to assemble. All you need to do is drop it in the lower receiver, and secure them with the trigger pins. That’s it! But there’s been some reported issues such as the trigger won’t fit into the lower receiver.

AR-15 trigger components

What you need to do now is some modifications. These include drilling and cutting to get a precise fit. If you do this, it will ensure proper alignment and an accurate shot — with secure groupings.

Lastly, if you use a separate trigger or use the existing one depends on your personal preference. You may want to buy one separately and assemble it yourself, which can help improve your control when applying them.

The Best AR 15 Triggers


Product NameWhere to Buy
image of Velocity Triggers AR-15 Curved TriggerVelocity Triggers AR-15 Curved TriggerCheck Price
image of TriggerTechTriggerTechCheck Price
image of TimneyTimneyCheck Price
image of Geissele Automatics TriggerGeissele Automatics TriggerCheck Price

1. Velocity Triggers AR-15 Curved Trigger

 

The Velocity Triggers AR-15 Curved Trigger is available up to 4-5 pound trigger pulls

Velocity Triggers, based in Phoenix, AZ has been a solid leader in the industry for over 30 years. Their expertise lies in designing, manufacturing, and assembling of triggers. Their high-quality AR-15 Curved Trigger offers you a quick and clean single pull. The AR-15 Curved is available up to 4.5-pound trigger pulls at a reasonably low price.

The AR-15 curved trigger comes in a classic black color and is slimmer than other brands. In addition, the Velocity Trigger is marketed as “easy installation” — as long as you use the correct tools. What about the Velocity Curved Trigger’s performance?

AR 15 Trigger Value

VELOCITY TRIGGERS AR-15 CURVED TRIGGER parts

Well, we can tell you this …  it’s a fantastic choice for anyone who doesn’t have a lot of money to spare. It’s also the right choice for anyone who wants to tweak their current pull weight. However, this trigger by Velocity is probably not the best choice for prospective competitors. It’s also not quite right for someone who requires more particular usage.

To put it simply, the Diamond-Like Carbon Coating (DLC) results in greater wear resistance over the life of the trigger.

So what’s our verdict on the Velocity? This trigger costs around $150 online and it’s the best value for your money as well as on the market! The Velocity AR-15 Curved Trigger is also one of the simplest drop-in triggers to install, and it comes at a great cost.

Features

  • Great value for your money
  • Available in three pull weights
  • User-friendly installation
  • The trigger is rather thin (not best for those with thick fingers)
  • Check the best price online!

2. TriggerTech AR-15 Trigger

The TriggerTech AR-15 Triggers Adjustable operate without sliding friction

 

The TriggerTech is adjustable and made of tough stainless steel, with every included part corrosion resistant — guaranteed. Triggers made by TriggerTech operate without sliding friction. This company’s triggers are manufactured using their patented Frictionless Release Technology.

Their two-stage trigger is adjustable, with a pull weight that can be adjusted up to 5 pounds. With this trigger, you’ll have a quick break that’s clean and neat for better accuracy.

No Creep AR 15 Trigger

The TriggerTech is an extraordinary performer that actually boasts no creeping. With their frictionless technology, you’ll experience a smooth pull. Additionally, the fact that this one features an adjustable pull weight is awesome.

In fact, some users actually prefer the heavier weight over the lighter one. Still, other users argue that the flat trigger is better than the curved. Overall, the TriggerTech costs on average, $220 online — still a great price for this high-tech trigger!

Lastly, the TriggerTech AR-15 Adjustable Trigger is offered in your choice of a curved or straight trigger. The TriggerTech is a high-quality model offered at a great price.

Features

  • Short two-stage trigger
  • Zero creep release provided by Frictionless Release Technology
  • Enhanced Reset Control with sub .030” reset
  • Hammer, sear, and trigger are all constructed with stainless steel
  • All other components are corrosion resistant
  • Check the best price online!

3. Timney AR-15 Drop In Trigger

The Timney AR-15 Drop-In Trigger Module comes in different trigger weights

 

The Timney model is an AR-15 Drop-In Trigger Module and is made of best quality aluminum. The rugged trigger is constructed, of durable, hardened steel with a unique finish. The Timney drop-in trigger is curved and can be purchased in various pull weights.

In addition, you can use the model’s original hammer for your AR-15 — always a great feature. As far as overall performance, there’s really not much that stands out from other brands. Simply put, it offers many of competitor’s options as well.

On the other hand, the curved trigger has a bit more normal thickness, which is always great. Overall, the Timney version seems to be a brand used often by online reviewers/users. Word of advice — the Timney Drop-In Trigger is pricier than the two other triggers so far. But, if you have the funds, it’s a wise investment.

So, what do we think? The Timney AR-15 Drop-In Trigger is a breeze to install. Priced for around $220 online, this is a great investment for a reputable and trusted brand.

Features

  • Available in three different pull weights
  • Simple installation
  • Great price for an excellent product
  • Check the best price online!

4. Geissele Automatics Super Dynamic AR-15 Trigger

The Geissele Automatics LLC AR-15 Super Dynamic Trigger was designed for CMP and NRA High-Power Rifle Competition

The Geissele company, or better known as Geissele Automatics, was established in 2004 as a manufacturer of trigger mechanisms for the AR15 rifle. Their first trigger was the Hi-Speed National Match which was designed by the company’s founder, Bill Geissele. In addition, this particular trigger was designed for CMP and NRA High-Power Rifle Competition.

Originally designed for target shooting, the Geissele Hi-Speed trigger was found by the U.S. Military to have applications in semi-automatic sniper weapons. The Geissele Automatics LLC AR-15 Super Dynamic Trigger is with tough steel and comes in a sleek black color.  In addition, the manufacturer has included a kit for installation.

Three Different Trigger Versions

The Super Dynamic Trigger comes available in three options (combat, enhanced, and three gun) Looking at the three versions, the heaviest weight is the combat. The overall performance of the Super Dynamic Trigger can be described as a superbly designed trigger with zero corners cut by Geissele Automatics LLC.

The Geissele Automatics AR-15 Super Dynamic Trigger comes available in three optionsThe three styles available are perfect for today’s shooters as each one is intended for different reasons.

As far as the included installation kit, you should be confident in your skill if you decide to install by yourself. What’s our verdict? The Geissele Trigger is the priciest model in our review — costs $230 online.

However, for extraordinary construction, plus tons of options, you’re definitely getting your money’s worth! Whether you use this trigger for hunting, tactical, or competitive purposes, the Geissele Automatics LLC AR-15 Super Dynamic Trigger is uniquely designed to enhance each one — a fantastic choice indeed.

Features

  • All-steel construction
  • Choices include three different pull weight styles
  • Flat trigger eliminates misconceived pull weight
  • Quite expensive
  • Check the best price online!

Best AR Triggers – Final Thoughts

Here’s what we’ve narrowed in on … if you prefer assembling your own customized trigger plus additional parts onto your AR-15, then the AR-15 trigger is the best choice for you. It definitely makes a considerable difference between using this type of trigger and the stock factory-installed trigger.

Now, if we had to choose from our list of AR-15 triggers, it would have to be the TriggerTech AR-15 Adjustable Trigger. Fresh and new technology is always a bonus! This model can be purchased in either curved or flat triggers, plus with the adjustable pull weight, the choice is a no-brainer.

The TriggerTech AR-15 Adjustable Trigger is absolutely worth your consideration. As always, it’s very important to invest in a high-quality product that will not only last you a lifetime, but also one that will give you an unforgettable shooting experience.

Recommended Reading

AR-15 Upgrades

AR-15 Rifles

Build An AR-15 At Home

Build A Featureless AR-15

AR-15 For Anybody

Best AR-15 Scopes

AR-15 Lower Receivers

AR-15 Reviews

The Legendary AR-15 Rifle

Clean An AR-15

9 Responses

  1. For your next review check out James Madison Tactical’s Sabre drop in trigger. Great performance, objectively tested by very critical professional reviewers using test setups that were designed to spot flaws in the trigger, and they sell at a great price!! Jason B

  2. As of today (10/18/21), here are the prices.
    Luth-AR Velocity: $135
    TriggerTech: $243
    Timney: $190
    Geissele: $240

    These are some fine triggers, especially the Geissele, but not the best value for your money. That honor goes to the LaRue MBT 2-Stage trigger, $99 for one or $79 each if you buy five. It’s certainly the best trigger under $100 by a country mile, but it is really among the top triggers at any price. It feels indistinguishable from my Geissele SSA, which is the best trigger I’ve ever used. At a third of the price!

  3. Thanks for the update, Keith. I want a trigger as a gift to my son in law for his new 458 SOCOM upper. I was thinking about a Rise Armament but see no reviews here. Timney and Geissele always favorites but like you said – price is intimidating.

  4. The Velocity trigger is THE WORST trigger i have and it is un-installed sitting in my safe!
    Light primer strike after light primer strike. It’s finicky to say the least!
    I live in Glendale AZ, close to where it’s made and really wanted to like it. Ive reached out to them but they do not respond. I will give a company a chance to make things right before I bash them and Velocity doesn’t seem to care.
    I recommend any trigger over Velocity triggers….

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Your emails are safe with us. We never sell our emails and value your trust.
Weekly Deals are sent out on Tuesday at 7PM Eastern Time.