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CMC Triggers AR-15 Pro

Best AR 15 Trigger

Smooth AR 15 trigger pulling ensures secure and accurate shooting, necessary for tactical and competition shooters. The trigger is an important firearm part, which provides a hitting-the-target mission. The majority of triggers are single-action (mechanically the simplest kind), which disconnect a sear that releases in its turn a spring-tension hammer.

Why do we need AR 15 trigger?

The smoother trigger, the more precise firing. Upgraded AR 15 triggers should deliver for the rifles a light pull, safe position, and short crisp reset to enhance performance and faster shooting rate in combat, competition shooting, training, or plinking on the range. Dependable new triggers allow remarkable upgrading of any AR rifle, enhancing the performance of pulling, reset, lock time, and delivering safety (while holding the trigger).

Best Picks

Geissele SSA Super Semi-Automatic Trigger for AR15 05-101

Geissele SSA Super Semi-Automatic Trigger for AR15 05-101

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The Semi-Automatic two-stage trigger ensures accurate trigger control for close combat and long-range shots, can be disassembled for cleaning and mounted without taking off the safety.

Triggertech AR-15 Adaptable Trigger

Triggertech AR-15 Adaptable Trigger

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This drop-in AR15 Short two-stage Action trigger with zero-creep break and Frictionless Release Technology is covered with Lifetime Warranty.

Timney Triggers Calvin Elite AR 15 Triggers

Timney Triggers Calvin Elite AR 15 Triggers

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The trigger features a fully adjustable length of pull, cast, and height, ensuring a custom fit for every shooter’s hand. Ultra-dependable 5-pound hammer spring is connected with a crisp and zero creep 1.5-pound pull weight.

Budget Pick

CMC Triggers AR-15 PCC Single Stage Drop-In Trigger

CMC Triggers AR-15 PCC Single Stage Drop-In Trigger

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Completely self-contained one-piece trigger assembly with anti-walk pins has positive trigger reset, providing a fast follow-up shot on the aim and no creep feel before hammer release.

Our Selection 17 Best AR-15 Trigger Kit for the Money

ImageProductBrand
CMC Triggers AR-15 Single Stage Drop-In TriggerCMC Triggers AR-15 Single Stage Drop-In TriggerCMC TriggersBUY
TRYBE Defense AR-15 Curved Drop-In TriggerTRYBE Defense AR-15 Curved Drop-In TriggerTRYBE DefenseBUY
Timney Triggers Impact AR 15 TriggerTimney Triggers Impact AR 15 TriggerTimney TriggersBUY
Timney Triggers AR 15 Competition TriggerTimney Triggers AR 15 Competition TriggerTimney TriggersBUY
Timney Triggers Calvin Elite AR 15 TriggersTimney Triggers Calvin Elite AR 15 TriggersTimney TriggersBUY
Timney Triggers AR-15 Skeletonized TriggerTimney Triggers AR-15 Skeletonized TriggerTimney TriggersBUY
CMC Triggers AR-15 Single Stage Drop-in Competition TriggerCMC Triggers AR-15 Single Stage Drop-in Competition TriggerCMC Triggers BUY
FosTech Outdoors Echo AR-II Drop-In Binary AR-15 TriggerFosTech Outdoors Echo AR-II Drop-In Binary AR-15 TriggerFosTech OutdoorsBUY
CMC Triggers AR-15 PCC Single Stage Drop-In TriggerCMC Triggers AR-15 PCC Single Stage Drop-In TriggerCMC TriggersBUY
FosTech Outdoors Echo Sport AR-15 TriggerFosTech Outdoors Echo Sport AR-15 TriggerFosTech OutdoorsBUY
CMC Triggers AR-15 Drop-in Single Stage TriggerCMC Triggers AR-15 Drop-in Single Stage TriggerCMC TriggersBUY
HIPERFIRE Xtreme 2 Stage Mod-2 AR15 Trigger AssemblyHIPERFIRE Xtreme 2 Stage Mod-2 AR15 Trigger AssemblyHIPERFIRE XtremeBUY
Triggertech AR-15 Diamond TriggerTriggertech AR-15 Diamond TriggerTriggertechBUY
Midwest Industries Enhanced AR15 Trigger MI-TRIGGER-CMidwest Industries Enhanced AR15 Trigger MI-TRIGGER-CMidwest IndustriesBUY
Triggertech AR-15 Adaptable TriggerTriggertech AR-15 Adaptable TriggerTriggertechBUY
CMC Triggers AR-15 Match Grade 2-Stage Trigger GroupCMC Triggers AR-15 Match Grade 2-Stage Trigger GroupCMC TriggersBUY
Geissele SSA Super Semi-Automatic Trigger for AR15 05-101Geissele SSA Super Semi-Automatic Trigger for AR15 05-101Geissele SSABUY

1# CMC Triggers AR-15 Single Stage Drop-In Trigger

CMC Triggers AR-15 Single Stage Drop-In Trigger

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Curved

Trigger Pull Weight: 3.5 lb

This trigger is a durable self-contained one-piece assembly with the CMC Anti-Walk small Pin Set, delivering sleek and clean breaks while target shooting. The ultra-crisp trigger is crafted from Alloy Steel (8620) and S7 Tool Steel (with machined tolerances of +/ .001″). The trigger pull is not shooter adjustable, as the factory pre-set.

Video review

Pros
  • Easy to install

  • Affordable price

  • Diminished lock times (due to the controlled hammer weight and balance activated by a rocket wire hammer spring)

  • and ultra-fast resets allow follow-up shot speed improving

  • Hand-assembled, and hand-tested

  • No feeling of creep before hammer release

Cons
  • California’s Proposition 65

2# TRYBE Defense AR-15 Curved Drop-In Trigger

TRYBE Defense AR-15 Curved Drop-In Trigger

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Traditional Curved

Trigger Pull Weight: 3.5 – 5 lb

The Single-stage Rifle Trigger is equipped with Anti-Walk small Mil-Spec Pins to deliver shot control, smooth, accurate shots with every pull. The trigger features Anodized Aluminum Housing (6061-T6), its components are milled from polished Nitride heat-treated steel (8620).

Pros
  • Pull Weight can be customized from 3.5 to 5 lbs according to the shooter’s preference

  • Corrosion and abrasion resistant sturdy material

  • Excellent pull and break

  • Easy to install

Cons
  • Don’t work as advised: poorly made

  • Unsafe while activation

  • The reset doesn’t work

3# Timney Triggers Impact AR 15 Trigger

Timney Triggers Impact AR 15 Trigger

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Curved; Straight

Trigger Pull Weight: 3 – 4 lb

The trigger with drop-in installation and small pin delivers clean and crisp 3lb. break for the Mil-Spec AR rifles. All parts are covered in the lightweight aluminum alloy: the hammer is wire-EDM machined from tool steel (S7), and the rest internal parts are EDM cut from tool steel (A2). There are two trigger shapes: curved and straight, the first design is easier for gripping, giving a smoother feel.

Video review

Pros
  • Sturdy with a long service life

  • The proprietary design excludes pin walkout

  • Impact trigger allows double-tap firing

  • Excellent drop-in trigger assembly

  • Precision finger control

  • Clean break

Cons
  • California’s Proposition 65

  • The Impact does not fit the AR-10

  • Light primer strikes

  • Tiny setting screws under spring a bit annoying but work

  • Doesn’t reset

4# Timney Triggers AR-15 Competition Trigger

Timney Triggers AR-15 Competition Trigger

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Curved; Straight

Trigger Pull Weight: 3; 4; 4.5 lb

These drop-in Single-Stage triggers are compatible with all military spec-built lowers, all mil-spec AR-15/ M4 platforms, including the large pin Colt Rifles (made in the 90s). The competition trigger is good for severe operation, preventing chipping or breaking as the hammer is wire-EDM machined from tool steel (S7).

Video review

Pros
  • No need in gunsmithing, or adjusting

  • Easy installation

  • No pin walkout due to the proprietary design

  • Quick trigger reset

  • Improved pull

  • Lightweight

  • Solid construction

  • Precision finger control

Cons
  • Hammer catch can hang up

5# Timney Triggers Calvin Elite AR 15 Triggers

Timney Triggers Calvin Elite AR 15 Triggers

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Curved

Trigger Pull Weight: 1.5 lb

Trigger Pin Size: 0.156 in

These Steel and Aluminum triggers allow the upgrade of M4 and AR-15, ensuring silky smooth pull to keep the shooter at a distance for hours. Anti-walk pins aren’t included, but they aren’t necessary, just screw down the internal locking screws located under the hammer spring legs. This trigger fits the AR10 lower, using small pins from the receiver.

Video review

Pros
  • Excellent performance

  • Easy drop-in installation without gunsmith’s help

  • The break is clean, crisp, and light

  • Ultra-dependable 5-pound hammer spring connected with a crisp and zero creep 1.5-pound pull weight

  • Ensures a custom fit for every shooter’s hand

Cons
  • A little costly

6# Timney Triggers AR-15 Skeletonized Trigger

Timney Triggers AR-15 Skeletonized Trigger

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Specification

Trigger Pull Weight: 3; 4; 4.5 lb

Trigger Pin Size: Small; Large

These AR-15 straight drop-in triggers (not a two-stage) are ready to get the shooter out at the firing range just a few minutes after mounting. They fit all mil-spec AR-15/ M4 platforms, even the large pin Colt Rifles (made in the 90s), and all military spec built lower.

Video review

Pros
  • Fast installation

  • No fumbling with fitting

  • Ensures long-lasting and trouble-free performance

  • Pin rotation and walk-out isn’t needed due to the proprietary design

  • Skeletonized design

  • Reasonable price

Cons
  • Broke after 32 shots

  • Poorly done instruction in the set

  • Polymer basis

7# CMC Triggers AR-15 Single Stage Drop-in Competition Trigger

CMC Triggers AR-15 Single Stage Drop-in Competition Trigger

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Curved; Tactical Flat

Trigger Pull Weight: 2.5 lb

Trigger Pin Size: Mil-Spec

Length: 7.15 in

Height: 1.05 in

Completely self-contained one-piece Steel and Aluminum trigger assembly is designed for AR-10 and AR-15 platforms. The trigger pull is the manufacturer’s pre-set and not shooter regulable. A positive trigger reset delivers a prompt follow-up shot on the target.

Video review

Pros
  • Made in the USA

  • Both assembled and tested by hand

  • Quick reset

  • Ultra-crisp trigger with no creep feel before hammer release

  • Glass-smooth break without grittiness feel

  • Lightweight

  • Comes with anti-walk pins

  • Super crisp, zero travel

Cons
  • Missing screw for anti-walk pin

  • The rear pin isn’t aligned with the holes of the lower to install

8# FosTech Outdoors Echo AR-II Drop-In Binary AR-15 Trigger 4150

FosTech Outdoors Echo AR-II Drop-In Binary AR-15 Trigger 4150

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Traditional Curved

Trigger Pull Weight: 4.5 – 5 lb

Weight: 4 oz

The trigger doesn’t come with a BCG, but it does not need a special one, it will operate with most standard bolt carriers. These triggers are crafted from Proprietary Stainless-Steel Alloy, covered with Metallic.

Video review

Pros
  • ATF Approved Patented Design

  • Clean double-tap

  • 100% binary reliability

  • Light, clean, and crisp pull in Semi-Automatic mode

  • Ease of use after a short learning curve

Cons
  • Tricky install

  • Stiff safety selector

  • Has a heavy trigger pull in echo mode

9# CMC Triggers AR-15 PCC Single Stage Drop-In Trigger

CMC Triggers AR-15 PCC Single Stage Drop-In Trigger

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Traditional Curved; Tactical Flat

Completely self-contained one-piece trigger assembly features minimal lock time thanks to controlled hammer weight and balance activated by a rocket wire hammer spring, delivering repeatable function with both commercial and military-grade ammo.

Video review

Pros
  • Hand-assembled and tested

  • Glass-smooth break without grittiness feel

  • Made in the USA

  • Ultra-crisp trigger without creep feel before hammer release

  • Easy to install

  • Lightweight trigger pull

  • Tools are included

  • Crisp and clean break

  • Very short reset

Cons
  • None yet

10# FosTech Outdoors Echo Sport AR-15 Trigger 4140

FosTech Outdoors Echo Sport AR-15 Trigger 4140

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Curved

Drop-In Rifle triggers operate smoothly on the AR platforms. There are three selective trigger settings: Safe Mode (no firing); Semi-Automatic Mode (fires when a trigger is pulled); Echo Mode (can fire in both pulled and released trigger positions).

Video review

Pros
  • Double-tap

  • Simple installation

Cons
  • A bit expensive

  • No pins to install

  • The pull feels a little grainy (heavy)

11# CMC Triggers AR-15 Drop-in Single Stage Trigger

CMC Triggers AR-15 Drop-in Single Stage Trigger

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Traditional Curved; Tactical Flat

Trigger Pull Weight: 3.5 lb

This safe Drop-in Single Stage trigger includes a CMC Anti-Walk Pin Set. The AR-15 trigger is milled from Alloy steel (8620) and Tool Steel (S7) with a 1-2 RMS surface finish.

Video review

Pros
  • Sear engagement overlap is up to 6-8 times better than the competitors’ one

  • Ensures repeatable results in the field

  • Feels smooth to pull

  • Zero Creep

  • Crisp reset

  • Breez installation

Cons
  • The gun has “double fire” on three separate occasions

  • Too light-weight pull for a CQB gun

12# HIPERFIRE Xtreme 2 Stage Mod-2 AR15 Trigger Assembly X2SM2

HIPERFIRE Xtreme 2 Stage Mod-2 AR15 Trigger Assembly X2SM2

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Traditional Curved

Trigger Pull Weight: 3.5 – 4.5 lb

Gun Model: SIG Sauer MPX, AR-9, AR-10, AR-15

The two-stage trigger with HIPERTOUCH technology is designed for AR Platforms and SIG Sauer to provide the rifles go bang every time, without fail. The trigger with Heavy Manganese Phosphate finish is outfitted with a cam-over Toggle Engine, Radical Sear Mechanics.

Video review

Pros
  • Shorter first stage than Mod-1 delivers a more fine-tuned feel

  • Clean, effortless break

  • Shooter adjustable pull weights

  • Soft start lock-up technology

Cons
  • Not yet reviewed

13# Triggertech AR-15 Diamond Trigger

Triggertech AR-15 Diamond Trigger

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Specification

Trigger Pull Weight: 1.5 – 4 lb

Trigger Pin Size: Standard Mil-Spec (0.154in)

Short Two Stage Action Ambidextrous trigger with FRT includes TKR, CLKR, FLTWR Technologies. The trigger features full Hammer Strike Force and Tactile mid force Reset Feel. The trigger is crafted from 440C Stainless Steel, 7075-T6 Aluminum with PVD Finish.

Video review

Pros
  • 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee

  • Comes with a patch and sticker

  • Stay on target up close or downrange

  • Lifetime Warranty

  • Feels like 1911

  • Trigger break

  • Adjustability

Cons
  • The reset is weak

14# Midwest Industries Enhanced AR15 Trigger MI-TRIGGER-C

Midwest Industries Enhanced AR15 Trigger MI-TRIGGER-C

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Curved

Trigger Pull Weight: 3.5 lb

Trigger Pin Size: Small

Weight: 2.4 oz

The Drop-in Single Stage Trigger with anti-walk pins and screws is compatible with most .308 and .223 AR-style platforms. Inner components are made from tool steel (S7) with heavy-hit hardening black Nitride finished.

Video review

Pros
  • Easy to install

  • Ultra-smooth break

  • Crisp, clean release

  • Strong and corrosion-resistant covering

  • Fast reset and low overtravel for improved speed

Cons
  • Stops working after a short time

  • California’s Proposition 65

15# Triggertech AR-15 Adaptable Trigger

Triggertech AR-15 Adaptable Trigger

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Specification

Trigger Pull Weight: 2.5 – 5 lb

Trigger Pin Size: Mil-Spec

This drop-in AR15 Short two-stage Action trigger is manufactured from Stainless Steel (440C) and Aluminum (7075-T6) with PVD Finish. The altering trigger pull weight doesn’t influence hammer force, providing reliable primer strikes at every weight.

Video review

Pros
  • Lifetime Warranty

  • 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee

  • Zero-creep break

  • Frictionless Release Technology

  • Feels like 1911

  • Corrosion-resistant inner parts with extended service life

  • Excellent fit

  • Includes all necessary hardware

  • Adjustable

Cons
  • No set screws

16# CMC Triggers AR-15 Match Grade 2-Stage Trigger Group

CMC Triggers AR-15 Match Grade 2-Stage Trigger Group

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Specification

Trigger Shape: Traditional Curved; Tactical Flat

Trigger Pull Weight: 2 lb; 3 lb

Trigger Pin Size: Small; Large

The two-stage match triggers are compatible with MIL-SPEC AR-15 and AR-10 rifles. They include anti-walk pins. The trigger features a smooth first stage with a crisp second stage break.

Video review

Pros
  • Made in the USA

  • Hand-assembled and tested

  • Robust steel trigger housing

  • Clean and easy install, using pins with screws on both ends

  • Glass-smooth break without grittiness feel

  • Crisp and clean break

  • Positive trigger reset provides prompt follow-up shots

Cons
  • None yet

17# Geissele SSA Super Semi-Automatic Trigger for AR15 05-101

Geissele SSA Super Semi-Automatic Trigger for AR15 05-101

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Specification

Trigger Shape: M4 Curved

Trigger Pull Weight: 4.5 lb

1st Stage Weight: 2.5 lbs

2nd Stage Weight: 2.0 lbs

Trigger Pin Size: Mil-Spec

The Semi-Automatic non-adjustable two-stage trigger with standard mil-spec pin is constructed for mil-spec AR15/M4 carbine rifles. Sear surfaces are cut by a wire EDM machine; sear engagement is factory pre-set. The trigger comes with captive springs and without adjustment screws to come loose.

Video review

Pros
  • Crisp and smooth

  • Accurate trigger control for close combat and long-range shots

  • The whole trigger is disassembled for cleaning

  • Fast lock time and positive ignition of all ammunition types due to the full-force hammer spring

  • Predictable Break

  • Can be mounted without taking off the safety

Cons
  • The first stage is a little long, roll pins are a bit tight

FAQ

How does a two-stage trigger work?
Two-stage triggers feature such a working process, which consists of two distinct phases of shooting. Such a trigger design allows the shooter to control the firing start for sure. The firearm will fire after setting the trigger and passing the first phase.
What is the influence of the trigger pull?
Trigger Pull shows how many force pounds should be applied to pull the trigger. If the trigger is hard to pull, it can cause less precise shots, meanwhile, the lightweight pull can result in accidental discharges if the shooter isn’t careful.
How does an AR 15 trigger work?
The trigger is a 2-stage small device, releasing a catch (or spring) to activate a shooting mechanism. The trigger is equipped with sear hooks and a built-in disconnector.

The trigger starts operating after its release: it turns, helping the disconnector turn out, the hammer go and drop onto the trigger sear hooks.

What is the trigger pull on an AR 15?
According to the mil-spec requirement for the trigger pull on the AR-15, the trigger pulls weight should be from 5.5 to 8.5 pounds. Not all AR-15 are completed with Mil-spec triggers, so trigger pull can be even 2.5 pounds.
Should I upgrade my AR 15 trigger?
The trigger modernization allows enhancing firing accuracy. That’s why it makes sense to install a better reliable trigger without high expenses.

Conclusion

Choose triggers with well-polished surfaces of sear and hammer, which are involved in pulling action for sleeking the trigger up, ensuring proper performance. Follow the manufacturer’s guides while installing or any modernization not to void the warranty. At times after squeezing the trigger, the rifle can be pulled off the target, because of the incorrect trigger pull weight. Be aware sometimes advertised ones can differ from really tested trigger pull weights.

Tags: #best ar-15 drop-in triggers / #best ar-15 triggers that money can buy / #best ar-15 triggers to improve performance and accuracy  / #best ar-15 trigger kit for the money

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