When it comes to aftermarket AR triggers, there are numerous options. One of the categories some of these fall under are “Duty Grade” or “Enhanced Duty Grade”. I tend to lump everything in these categories into the “Enhanced Duty Grade” except the standard mil-spec trigger. That leads me to Triggertech coming out with their version of a Duty Trigger. Triggertech was kind enough to send me an AR Duty Trigger at the same time they sent the AR Diamond trigger.
Since this is a duty trigger, I opted for the curved shoe version. As you may know from previous reviews, I like a curved trigger. Triggertech does make the Duty version with their signature straight shoe also. Triggertech’s curved shoe is pretty close to the same width as a mil-spec trigger. But it feels narrower due to the ribs on the face of it. Because of this, the face is more radiused than the mil-spec trigger. However, the curve on the shoe seems to be the same as a mil-spec trigger. I really like the physical feel of the Triggertech curved shoe.
This Duty trigger has a few options available. I already discussed the shoe options, so those are taken care of. First, the Triggertech Duty comes in either a fixed 3.5 lb pull weight, or a 5.5 lb version. I opted for the 3.5 lb version as I like lighter pull weights, even in a duty trigger. Both of those pull weight options are also available in a single stage or two stage version. I opted for the single stage, which is just that, one pull and break. The two stage will have some light take-up before you hit the wall of the trigger pull and break. It’s really personal preference as to which one you go with.
The Triggertech Duty trigger comes as a cartridge style, drop in unit. This makes installation a snap. Triggertech used a different material for the Duty’s housing. They are using a EZAC diecast zinc. Here’s what I found on EZAC: “EZAC is a hot-chamber zinc die casting alloy with superior creep resistance, high yield strength, and high hardness.” So basically the housing should last a long, long time. The parts inside, that really matter, are made from 440C stainless. The trigger shoe is also PVD coated black. Drop-in triggers are my choice for trigger installs and not all “Duty” triggers are this way.
Since this Duty trigger is made by Triggertech, it inherits some of the technology from its higher end siblings. This means that you get the benefit of having their roller bearing between the trigger and sear. Big deal you say? Yes it is, because it removes the friction portion of a trigger pull. Rollers always beat friction, at least in my world. This makes the trigger have essentially no take up. At least on the single stage version. If you want to know more about Triggertech’s technology, you can check out their How-It-Works page. I think the only tech it doesn’t have is the CLKR adjustment, but that’s because it’s a fixed pull weight.
I will say, the Triggertech Duty has one of the best “duty” trigger pulls I have felt. There is no take up, just a crisp 0.050” break, with some overtravel. Here is where the trigger gets weird. If you dry fire the trigger, it has about 0.025” of overtravel. But when you cycle the action, after pulling the trigger and holding it (also during live fire), the trigger moves rearward another 0.050”, for a total overtravel of around 0.075”. This gives the Triggertech Duty trigger a 0.125” reset, or an ⅛”. This isn’t bad for a duty trigger, but it does make the trigger a little slower to shoot. Not in a bad way, just different. The clean break definitely makes up for the reset. Speaking of reset, it's pretty good. Not as strong as a mil-spec trigger, but better than the Triggertech Diamond line, at least in reset feel.
I ended up sticking the Triggertech Duty trigger in my Kaiser Blackbird. It was a great addition to the lightweight build. The trigger shoots very well in it. Double taps are fairly easy and quick for a duty style trigger. Bill Drills (6 shots) are a little slower due to the reset not being as short as non-duty triggers, but still manageable. Overall, the Duty trigger is still a great trigger in this category of AR triggers.
As I mentioned, the Triggertech AR Duty trigger is one of the best I have felt. I don’t think you can go wrong choosing this trigger, especially when you find out the MSRP is only $130 bucks. So if you want a good inexpensive trigger, or if you need an actual “Duty” grade trigger, go check out Triggertech’s version of a Duty trigger.
Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points
Claim to Fame:
Duty style trigger with a great trigger pull
Target Market:
Close quarter engagement, harsh environments operations, law enforcement, military, 3 Gun
FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):
Traditional Curved trigger shoe
Trigger Action: Single-Stage
Zero Creep
TKR Technology
FLatwire spring
Creep: 0.000"
Overtravel: 0.060"
Reset: 0.070"
Reset Feel: Tactile mid force
Full Hammer Strike Force
EZAC Diecast drop in housing
Standard Mil-Spec Pin 0.154" (trigger pins not included)
Lifetime Warranty
What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?
Straight shoe, two stage, 5.5 lb pull weights. AR9 and AR10 options
What others are saying?:
5 out 5 stars from Glenn P. at Brownells
Excellent trigger
Wanted a better trigger for my AR15 than the factory trigger. After an easy 5 minute swap the difference is night and day. Zero grit, creep. Consistent 3.5# pull and short crisp reset. Highly recommended for an upgrade to your rifle.
Link to other reviews:
Nothing found as of publishing
Price point:
MSRP = $129.99
Retail = same at Brownells
I need it now! Availability:
Our Rating:
Pros:
Great trigger break
Decent reset
Drop in installation
Curved or straight shoe
Price
Cons:
Over Travel after bolt movement
Long reset
