A Comprehensive Guide to Upgrading Your Rifle Trigger
Upgrading your rifle trigger can be a rewarding endeavor that can significantly enhance your shooting experience. However, to ensure that you make informed decisions throughout the process, a comprehensive guide is invaluable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the trigger upgrading process:
1. Identify Your Needs:
Purpose: The goal behind upgrading your trigger could range from achieving a smoother trigger pull for hunting, a lighter pull for competitive shooting, or simply an overall better shooting experience. Your purpose will significantly influence the type of trigger you choose.
Preferences: Every shooter has unique preferences when it comes to trigger pull weight, break, and reset. Some prefer a heavier pull while others prefer a lighter one. Understanding your preferences is crucial for a satisfying upgrade.
Skill Level: Your level of experience with firearms can affect your trigger choice. Some advanced triggers may not be suitable for beginners, while seasoned shooters may seek sophisticated, adjustable triggers.
Trigger Pull Weight Guide
| Type of Shooting | Recommended Trigger Pull Weight | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Target Shooting/Competition | 2 to 4 pounds | Lighter trigger pull for precise control and minimal rifle movement. |
| Hunting | 3.5 to 5 pounds or more | Heavier trigger pull for safety, especially in high-adrenaline or cold-weather situations. |
| Tactical/Defensive | Moderate to heavy | Prevents accidental discharges under stress. |
| Beginners | Varies, heavier preferred | Heavier trigger pull while developing shooting skills and safety habits. |
| Experienced Shooters | Varies, lighter preferred | May prefer a lighter trigger pull with discipline and control. |
| Adjustable Triggers | Adjustable | Allows experimentation to find preferred trigger pull weight. |
2. Research
Compatibility: Not all triggers are universally compatible. Ensure the trigger you have in mind will fit your rifle model and make.
Brands and Models: Reputable brands often have a track record of quality and reliability. Explore various models and compare their features.
Reviews and Recommendations: Online reviews, forums, and recommendations from fellow shooters can provide invaluable insights. Look for reviews that address your particular concerns and preferences.
Renowned Aftermarket Rifle Trigger Brands
- Timney Triggers: Offers a wide range of triggers, known for easy installation and improving shooting accuracy.
- American Trigger Corp: Known for the ATC AR Gold trigger, favored in competition shooting for its short reset and fast action.
- Geissele Automatics: Renowned for high-quality, dependable triggers for AR rifles, enhancing precision and control.
- TriggerTech: Known for innovative, frictionless triggers that provide a crisp release and minimal overtravel.
- CMC Triggers: Recognized for their drop-in trigger design, providing a clean, crisp trigger pull.
3. Set a Budget:
High-quality triggers can be a significant investment. Determine a realistic budget, but remember, investing in a good trigger can drastically improve your shooting experience.
4. Consult Professionals:
Advice: Professionals or experienced shooters can provide personalized advice based on your needs and skill level.
Hands-on Experience: Visiting local gun shops or shooting ranges can provide hands-on experience and direct feedback.
Safety: Conduct a thorough safety check to ensure the new trigger functions correctly and safely. This includes checking for any obstructions, ensuring the safety works correctly, and the trigger resets properly.
Installation Procedure
Safety First: Ensure your rifle is completely unloaded. Remove the magazine and check the chamber to confirm it's empty.
Upgrading your rifle trigger is a technical task that requires a certain level of knowledge and skill. Here's a simplified procedure to guide you through the process. Note that if you are unsure or uncomfortable with any step, it's advisable to seek professional assistance from a qualified gunsmith.
Disassemble the Rifle:
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to safely disassemble your rifle to access the trigger assembly.
Remove the Existing Trigger:
Carefully remove the existing trigger assembly, keeping track of all pins, springs, and other components.
Install the New Trigger:
Place the new trigger assembly into the rifle following the new trigger’s installation instructions.
Secure the trigger assembly using the provided pins or screws.
Reassemble the Rifle:
Carefully reassemble the rifle, ensuring all parts are securely fastened and in their correct positions.
Check Functionality and Safety:
Perform a functionality check to ensure the new trigger and other components are working correctly.
Check the safety to ensure it's functioning properly.
Adjust the Trigger (if applicable):
If your new trigger is adjustable, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to adjust the trigger pull weight, over-travel, and reset to your liking.
Test Fire:
In a safe and controlled environment, test fire the rifle to ensure the new trigger functions as expected.
Make any necessary adjustments to achieve your desired trigger performance.
5. Test and Adjust
Testing: Take your rifle to a safe and controlled environment to test the new trigger, assessing the feel and function.
Adjustments: Some triggers allow for adjustments. Fine-tune the settings to achieve your desired trigger pull and reset.
6. Maintenance & Continuous Learning
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and reliable performance of your new trigger. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on cleaning and maintenance. The world of firearms is ever-evolving. Keep learning about new trigger technologies, upgrades, and practices to enhance your shooting experience further.
Maintenance
Clean and Lubricate:
Clean and lubricate the trigger assembly and other parts of the rifle as per the manufacturer's recommendations.
Regular Checks:
Periodically check the trigger assembly for any signs of wear, and ensure all screws and pins are securely fastened.
The Remington 700's enduring popularity has fostered a vast aftermarket sector, offering enthusiasts a plethora of options for customization, including triggers.
A well-thought-out trigger upgrade, grounded in thorough research and professional advice, can significantly enhance your marksmanship and overall satisfaction with your rifle. Each step in this guide is designed to ensure a safe, informed, and rewarding trigger upgrade journey.
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