What Is an FRT Trigger?
An FRT Trigger, short for "Forced Reset Trigger," is a specialized trigger system that resets itself using the force of the bolt cycling within the firearm. The term "forced reset" refers to the mechanical action where the trigger is pushed forward automatically after each shot, enabling the shooter to pull the trigger again quickly for the next round.
Unlike traditional semi-automatic triggers, where the shooter has to release the trigger and allow it to reset manually before firing the next round, the FRT trigger uses the energy from the firearm’s recoil system to forcibly reset the trigger. This allows for faster shooting without making the firearm fully automatic, keeping it within the legal framework of semi-automatic firearms.
The FRT trigger is most commonly associated with AR-15 style rifles, although it can be adapted for use in other types of semi-automatic firearms. It has become popular among enthusiasts looking for a high-performance shooting experience, combining the excitement of rapid-fire capabilities with precise control over each shot.
How Does an FRT Trigger Work?
The mechanics of an FRT trigger set it apart from traditional trigger systems. To understand its operation, it's essential to look at both the firing and resetting mechanisms involved.
1. Trigger Pull and Firing
When the shooter pulls the trigger on a firearm equipped with an FRT, the gun fires a round as it would with any other semi-automatic trigger. The shooter initiates the firing sequence by pulling the trigger back, releasing the hammer, and allowing the firing pin to strike the primer of the chambered round. The bullet is then discharged, and the firearm begins its recoil cycle, which is crucial to the function of the FRT system.
2. Bolt Cycling
Once the round is fired, the firearm’s bolt carrier group moves backward as part of the recoil, ejecting the spent cartridge and chambering the next round. In a traditional trigger system, the shooter must release the trigger to allow it to reset before the next shot can be fired. In an FRT trigger system, however, the mechanics change at this point.
3. Forced Trigger Reset
As the bolt cycles back to its forward position, it applies force to the trigger mechanism, physically pushing the trigger forward. This action resets the trigger without requiring the shooter to release it manually. In other words, the recoil action forces the trigger to reset, allowing the shooter to pull it again immediately. This mechanism enables the shooter to maintain continuous pressure on the trigger and fire subsequent shots more quickly.
However, it’s important to note that with an FRT, the shooter is still required to pull the trigger for each shot, which is what differentiates it from fully automatic firearms. While the trigger is resetting itself faster, the firearm is still classified as semi-automatic because each shot requires a distinct trigger pull.
4. Increased Rate of Fire
The forced reset mechanism results in a much faster rate of fire than what is possible with a standard semi-automatic trigger. Because the reset occurs automatically and almost instantly, the shooter can pull the trigger for the next shot more rapidly. This makes the FRT trigger ideal for situations where faster shooting is desirable, such as competitive shooting events or recreational target practice.
Advantages of an FRT Trigger
The FRT trigger offers several benefits that contribute to its growing popularity among firearm enthusiasts and professionals alike:
1. Faster Shooting Without Full-Auto Classification
One of the most significant advantages of the FRT trigger is that it allows for faster shooting while maintaining the firearm’s legal classification as semi-automatic. In countries like the United States, where fully automatic weapons are heavily regulated, the FRT trigger offers a way to achieve a rapid rate of fire without the legal challenges or costs associated with owning a fully automatic weapon. Each shot still requires a separate trigger pull, which keeps it within the bounds of semi-automatic regulations.
2. Improved Control and Precision
Despite the increased rate of fire, the FRT trigger does not sacrifice control or precision. The forced reset system allows shooters to maintain consistent trigger pulls while firing rapidly, helping them stay on target. This balance between speed and control makes the FRT trigger suitable for competitive shooting, tactical training, and recreational use.
3. Enhanced Shooting Experience
For recreational shooters, the thrill of rapid fire is a big draw. The FRT trigger provides an exciting and dynamic shooting experience, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy faster shooting without having to invest in more expensive, legally restricted firearms. The trigger’s rapid reset system provides the feel of automatic fire in a semi-automatic package, making it highly attractive to hobbyists.
4. Ease of Installation
Many FRT triggers are designed for easy installation in AR-15 platforms, making them accessible to a wide range of shooters. The trigger assembly can often be installed without significant modifications to the firearm, allowing users to upgrade their rifles relatively quickly and with minimal technical expertise.
Legal Considerations and Controversies
While the FRT trigger operates within the bounds of semi-automatic firearm regulations, its rapid-fire capabilities have led to increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities, particularly the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). The ATF has been involved in legal battles and investigations regarding the classification of FRTs and other trigger modifications that mimic the firing rates of automatic weapons.
1. Federal Firearm Regulations
The National Firearms Act (NFA) in the United States regulates fully automatic weapons, classifying them as machine guns and imposing strict legal requirements for their ownership, including special licenses, background checks, and higher costs. Since the FRT trigger is designed to increase the rate of fire while still requiring individual trigger pulls, it remains classified as semi-automatic and does not fall under the same restrictions as machine guns.
2. State and Local Laws
While the FRT trigger may be legal at the federal level, individual states and municipalities may have different regulations regarding trigger modifications and firearm accessories. Some jurisdictions have implemented laws restricting or banning trigger systems that increase the rate of fire, including forced reset triggers. It is essential for potential buyers to research and understand the legal status of FRT triggers in their area before making a purchase.
3. Ongoing Legal Challenges
Due to its unique firing mechanism, the FRT trigger has faced legal challenges and controversy. Some lawmakers and gun control advocates argue that forced reset triggers blur the line between semi-automatic and fully automatic weapons, potentially creating a loophole in existing firearm laws. The ongoing debates surrounding the FRT trigger could lead to further regulation or legal restrictions in the future.
Who Benefits from Using an FRT Trigger?
The FRT trigger is an appealing option for a variety of firearm users, including:
1. Competitive Shooters
Competitive shooters often seek to enhance their rate of fire to gain an edge in timed events. The FRT trigger provides the speed and precision necessary for success in fast-paced shooting competitions.
2. Recreational Shooters
For gun enthusiasts who enjoy target practice or simply want to experience the thrill of faster shooting, the FRT trigger offers an exciting option. It allows recreational shooters to fire at a faster pace while still maintaining control over their shots.
3. Tactical and Law Enforcement Training
The FRT trigger can also benefit law enforcement or tactical personnel who engage in rapid-fire training exercises. It offers a practical way to simulate fast-paced shooting scenarios without transitioning to fully automatic firearms.
Conclusion
The Forced Reset Trigger (FRT) is a significant innovation in the firearms industry, providing a faster rate of fire while maintaining the legal classification of a semi-automatic firearm. By using the energy of the bolt cycle to reset the trigger quickly, the FRT allows shooters to fire rounds in rapid succession without sacrificing control or precision. However, the legal status of FRT triggers remains a subject of ongoing debate, and potential buyers should be aware of both federal and local regulations before making a purchase.