AR-15 Trigger Upgrade: When Should I Upgrade?
Clinically, if you need to ask whether you should upgrade your AR-15 trigger, the answer is often no. If you are not breaking into a sweat during shooting or frequently cursing the grit and creep in your current trigger, there is likely no significant benefit in upgrading. Instead, you would gain more from focusing on proper breath control, sight alignment, and trigger break techniques.
When Should You Consider an Upgrade?
However, for serious shooters and those who frequently practice, upgrading to a lighter, crisper pull can make a noticeable difference. I’ve found that replacing stock Mil-Spec triggers with ALG Combat triggers can enhance performance significantly. These triggers, made by Geiselle, offer a great value, especially for competition and range guns. I also use higher-end Timney triggers in precision rifles, but ALG's have become my go-to for any build, offering a lighter pull of 2.5-3 pounds for specialty use. However, I recommend sticking to a Mil-Spec pull for field rifles or guns that may endure significant abuse.
For Serious Shooters: A Necessity, Not a Luxury
Yes, upgrading triggers is not just a luxury; it is a necessity for serious shooters. Each of my ARs serves a different purpose, and the choice of trigger significantly impacts their performance. Investing in high-quality triggers is money well spent, and I never leave a stock trigger in my rifles longer than it takes to save up for an upgrade.
Personal Build Philosophy
On the whole, I align with the other opinions here. My 20-inch 6.5 Grendel target rifle features a 2-stage Geisselle trigger, which I adore. However, they are quite expensive, making them a significant investment for serious target shooters. For most of my builds, I stick to a classic curved Mil-Spec style trigger, complemented by Mil-Spec parts and a set of JPE 3.5lb trigger/hammer springs and KNS anti-rotation pins. This combination offers good results for lower budget builds, with no hammer/trigger creep and a consistent 3.5lb pull.
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade depends on your specific needs and the purpose of your rifle. Whether you are a competitive shooter or someone looking to enhance your shooting accuracy, upgrading your AR-15 trigger can make a substantial difference in your performance.