In recent years, drop-in trigger upgrades for AR-15s have become more and more popular — and for good reason. But why would you upgrade your rifle’s trigger? Does it really improve the gun’s performance? 

The short answer is this: Upgrading the trigger is one of the easiest and most impactful changes you can make to your AR.

What Is a Drop-In Trigger?

Most AR-style rifles come with Mil-Spec triggers — a gritty, hard-pulling basic. Sure, they make the gun go bang, but they don’t make it any easier for you to hit the target. Fortunately, drop-in trigger groups allow you to easily and quickly replace your rifle’s Mil-Spec trigger with a better-performing option. All the components are self-contained in a single unit that literally drops into the rifle’s receiver. 

Whether you’re a competitive shooter, hunter, or simply like to hit targets at the range or ranch, a high-performing drop-in trigger can help you stay on target for faster, more repeatable shots. It provides better trigger control and improved accuracy. Here’s why:

1. Lower Pull Weight

Drop-in triggers have a lower pull weight than standard Mil-Spec triggers. (The pull weight is the amount of force you have to put on the trigger shoe to make the sear release.) Mil-Spec trigger pull weights generally range between 5 and 10 points. (A lot come in around 8 pounds). We’ve found that a 3.5-pound pull is generally ideal.

2. It reduces the creep and overtravel. 

3. It results in a crisper, cleaner break and a faster reset. 

different trigger face options

Fast and easy to install.