Looking to lighten your AR trigger pull and improve your accuracy, then you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll show you several methods of lightening the trigger pull of your AR. We’ll cover everything from how to install a lighter trigger spring to how to use polishing compounds to smoothen the trigger pull. We’ll also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each method, so you can decide which one is best for you. So get ready to learn all about lightening your AR trigger pull!
Exploring Different Ways to Lighten an AR Trigger Pull
The AR trigger pull is an important factor in the accuracy of your shot when using an AR-15 rifle. Fortunately, there are several ways to lighten the trigger pull on an AR. One of the most common methods is to install a lighter trigger spring. This is an inexpensive and easy way to reduce the trigger pull weight. Another option is to install a drop-in trigger assembly, which can provide a much lighter pull weight than stock.
You’re looking for an even lighter pull weight, you can also install an aftermarket trigger or trigger shoe. Finally, if you are experienced with gunsmithing, you can perform a trigger job, which will involve polishing and stoning parts to further reduce the trigger pull weight. No matter which method you choose, it can be a great way to improve your accuracy and shooting experience.
How to Install an AR Trigger Pull Kit
- Start by disassembling your AR-15 and removing the lower receiver. You will need to locate the trigger and disconnector and remove them from the lower receiver.
- Once the trigger and disconnector are removed, you should install the new trigger pull kit. Depending on the kit, this may include a new trigger and disconnector, or just a trigger spring and other parts.
- Once the new parts are installed, you will need to reassemble the lower receiver. Make sure to use the proper torque values for all screws and pins, as using too much or too little torque can cause damage to the parts.
- After assembly, check the trigger pull. You can do this by pulling the trigger while measuring the force needed to do so with a trigger pull gauge. If the force is not within specs, you may need to adjust the trigger pull kit components to adjust the pull weight.
- When you are satisfied with the trigger pull, you can reassemble the AR-15 and test fire it to make sure the trigger pull is correct.
Tips for Maintaining an AR Trigger Pull
Maintaining an AR trigger pull is essential for getting the most out of your rifle’s performance. Here are some tips to help you maintain your trigger pull:
- Clean and lubricate the trigger. Regularly cleaning and lubricating your trigger will help reduce the wear and tear on the components, keeping it smooth and responsive.
- Replace worn parts. If any parts of the trigger are worn or damaged, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep the trigger pull consistent.
- Adjust the trigger pull weight. Different AR rifles have different trigger pull weights. If the trigger pull is too heavy or too light, you can adjust it by turning the trigger spring tension screw.
- Use a trigger job. A trigger job is a procedure in which a gunsmith modifies the internal components of a trigger to optimize it for better performance. This can include lightening the trigger pull, reducing the trigger pull weight, and smoothing out the trigger pull.
- Upgrade the trigger. Replacing the stock trigger with an aftermarket one can greatly improve the trigger pull.
Benefits of Lightening an AR Trigger Pull
Lightening an AR trigger pull can offer a number of benefits for an AR shooter. One of the main benefits is improved accuracy. A lighter trigger pull allows a shooter to be more precise and consistent when shooting, which can help with accuracy. Another benefit is increased shooter comfort.
A lighter trigger pull reduces the amount of strain and fatigue on the shooter’s finger, which can result in improved accuracy and comfort when shooting. Additionally, a lighter trigger pull can reduce the amount of time it takes to fire a shot, which can be beneficial when shooting in fast-paced scenarios. Finally, a reduced trigger pull can also help reduce the amount of recoil felt when shooting, which can improve accuracy and reduce the amount of time it takes to re-acquire a target.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Lightening an AR Trigger Pull
One of the most common mistakes when lightening an AR trigger pull is attempting to do so without the proper tools. While there are some methods that can be used without the proper tools, attempting to do so without them can lead to improper installation, resulting in a trigger pull that is too light and unsafe to use. Additionally, it is important to know how to properly adjust the trigger pull weight in order to achieve the desired results. Improper adjustments can cause the trigger pull to be too light, resulting in an unsafe and unreliable firearm.
When lightening an AR trigger pull, it is also important to ensure that all parts are properly lubricated and free of debris. If there is dirt or debris in the trigger group, it can cause the trigger to stick, resulting in an unsafe and unreliable trigger pull. Additionally, it is important to make sure that all parts are properly fitted and that the trigger is properly adjusted. Improperly fitted parts or an improperly adjusted trigger can lead to an unreliable trigger pull that is too light and unsafe to use.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
What is a trigger pull?
A trigger pull is the amount of force required to pull the trigger of a firearm in order to fire the gun. Trigger pull is measured in pounds and is typically expressed as a range, such as 3.5-4.5 pounds.
What is an AR trigger pull?
An AR trigger pull is the amount of force required to pull the trigger of an AR-style rifle in order to fire the gun. AR triggers are typically lighter than other types of triggers due to their shorter, lighter pull weight and shorter reset.
Why is a lighter trigger pull important?
A lighter trigger pull can help improve accuracy, as it requires less effort to pull the trigger and thus less disruption to the shooter’s aim. Additionally, a lighter trigger pull can help reduce fatigue over extended shooting sessions, allowing for more consistent shooting and better performance.
How can I lighten my AR trigger pull?
There are several ways to lighten an AR trigger pull. These include installing a lighter trigger spring, installing a trigger job, or replacing the trigger group with a lighter, aftermarket trigger.
Is it safe to lighten my AR trigger pull?
Yes, it is safe to lighten an AR trigger pull as long as it is done correctly. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the trigger or trigger job, as well as any safety advice from qualified gunsmiths.
What is a trigger job?
A trigger job is a process of customizing and adjusting the trigger on a firearm to reduce the trigger pull and improve the trigger pull performance. Trigger jobs are typically performed by a qualified gunsmith and can involve adjusting the trigger components, such as the trigger spring, sear engagement, and trigger pull weight.
Conclusion
Lightening an AR trigger pull can be a great way to improve accuracy and overall performance when shooting. It can also help to reduce fatigue and improve accuracy, as well as making the gun safer to use. However, it is important to ensure that the trigger pull is light enough so that it still meets the safety requirements and is not too light, which could cause an accidental discharge.

A. Wilcox Head is a lifelong shooter, hunter, and firearms enthusiast. Head grew up in a family where firearms were a way of life, and from an early age, he was taught the importance of firearm safety, accuracy, and proper hunting techniques.