Smyth Busters: Can You Do a Trigger Job on an AR-15?

Published on October 6, 2020
Duration: 3:09

This video debunks the myth of performing a traditional trigger job on a stock AR-15 mil-spec trigger. It explains that due to the cast nature of the components and the hardness of the exterior versus the softness of the interior, attempting to stone surfaces or alter sear angles is a bad idea and can lead to dangerous malfunctions like hammer follow. The recommended safe approach for improving a stock trigger is lubrication, and for a significant upgrade, purchasing an aftermarket trigger like the ALG Enhanced Mil-Spec trigger is advised.

Quick Summary

Attempting a trigger job on a stock AR-15 mil-spec trigger is ill-advised due to the material properties of cast components. Modifying surfaces can lead to rapid wear and dangerous hammer follow. Safely improve feel with lubrication, or opt for aftermarket upgrades like the ALG Enhanced Mil-Spec trigger.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: AR-15 Trigger Job Myth
  2. 00:13Why Mil-Spec Trigger Jobs Fail
  3. 01:00Material Properties of Stock Triggers
  4. 01:21Consequences of Wear and Rounding
  5. 01:36Acceptable Minor Adjustments (Burr Removal)
  6. 01:57Recommendation: Buy an Aftermarket Trigger
  7. 02:12ALG Enhanced Mil-Spec Trigger
  8. 02:20Safe Improvement: Lubrication
  9. 02:46Safety Assurance with Lubrication
  10. 02:50Conclusion and Further Assistance

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you improve the trigger pull on a stock AR-15 mil-spec trigger?

While you cannot perform a traditional 'trigger job' by stoning surfaces on a stock AR-15 mil-spec trigger due to material properties, you can safely improve its feel by lubricating the sear and hammer hook surfaces. For a significant upgrade, consider aftermarket triggers.

What are the risks of modifying a stock AR-15 mil-spec trigger?

Modifying stock AR-15 mil-spec triggers is risky because their cast metal has a hard exterior and soft interior. Altering surfaces can lead to rapid wear, rounding off, and dangerous malfunctions like hammer follow, potentially causing accidental discharge.

What is the best way to enhance a stock AR-15 trigger safely?

The safest method to enhance a stock AR-15 trigger is through proper lubrication. Applying grease to the sear and hammer hook surfaces can smooth out the pull. Extensive grinding or stoning is strongly discouraged due to material limitations.

Are there aftermarket triggers that are a good upgrade from the AR-15 mil-spec trigger?

Yes, for a substantial improvement, aftermarket triggers are recommended. ALG Defense offers an Enhanced Mil-Spec trigger that provides a noticeable upgrade without a high cost, making it a popular choice for those seeking better performance.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from Brownells, Inc.

View all →