It’s appropriate to start this conversation by answering the question:
What is a 2 Stage Trigger?
A 2-stage trigger is a trigger system that allows the shooter to set, or stage, the trigger before applying the pressure need to complete the firing sequence. The shooter applies pressure, but the trigger does not immediately fire. Instead, the initial pressure causes the trigger to travel slightly, often referred to as “taking up the slack.” As this occurs, the shooter feels resistance and must apply additional pressure before the trigger breaks.
The 2-stage trigger allows the shooter to pause after taking up the slack and adjust aim, verify the target, breath, or even wait for better conditions before taking the final shot. This makes this a preferred trigger system for precision shooters in tactical and competition settings. Read this blog post for a more complete breakdown of what a 2 stage trigger is.
Do All CZ Rifles Have a 2-Stage Trigger?
No, only one of the current lines of CZ rifles includes a 2-stage trigger. Although some earlier models came standard with a 2-stage trigger, those models have been discontinued. Most CZ rifles now include an adjustable trigger.
The adjustable trigger offers the best alternative to a traditional single or 2-stage trigger. The trigger functions like a single-stage trigger when operated as a conventional bolt action rifle. If the trigger is pushed forward, the shooter gains a sharper, more accurate function like the final stage of a 2-stage trigger.
Current CZ Rifle Types
CZ 457 Line
- Trigger Type: Adjustable
- Caliber(s): .22 LR, .22 WMR, .17 HMR
- Barrel Size: 24.8 inches
- Weight: 6.1 to 6.39 pounds
CZ 512
- Trigger Type: Single Stage
- Caliber(s): .22 WMR
- Barrel Size: 20.5 inches
- Weight: 6.06 pounds
CZ 600 Trail
- Trigger Type: 2-stage, adjustable
- Caliber(s): .223 Rem, 7.62×39
- Barrel Size: 16.2 inches
- Weight: 6.1 pounds
CZ 457 American Line
- Trigger Type: Adjustable
- Caliber(s): .22 LR, .22 WMR, .17HMR
- Barrel Size: 24.8 inches
- Weight: 6.17 pounds
CZ 600
- Trigger Type: Single Stage, Adjustable
- Caliber(s): .223 Rem, ,224 Valkyrie, .300 Win Mag., .308 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor, .30-06, 6.5 PRC, 6mm Creedmore, 7,62×39
- Barrel Size: 24 inches
- Weight: 6.6 pounds
CZ 457 Varmint Chassis
- Trigger Type: Adjustable
- Caliber(s): .22 LR
- Barrel Size: 16, 16.5, 24 inches
- Weight: 7, 7.65
What is the Difference Between a Rifle With and Without a 2-Stage Trigger?
Price
When it comes to price, a single or 2-stage trigger makes less of a difference than the quality of the rifle itself. However, many higher prices rifles include 2-stage triggers, including custom models. Many lower-priced models can be upgraded with an aftermarket 2-stage trigger, including many CZ models. Many US shooters prefer the single-stage trigger due to its being standard in hunting rifles. European shooters tend to prefer the 2-stage trigger.
Accuracy
A 2-stage trigger does offer the opportunity for increased accuracy. The increased trigger control and more precise breakpoint make the 2-stage trigger a preferred option for competition or tactical shooters. As noted earlier, the 2-stage trigger allows for a natural pause before firing. During this pause, the shooter can make necessary last-minute corrections for improved accuracy.
Trigger Control
The issue of trigger control comes down to what the shooter is looking for and what they consider “trigger control.” Many shooters think the 2-stage trigger is superior as it allows them to adjust before applying the final pressure. This allows more control over when the shot is fired. However, shooters accustomed to or that prefer a single-stage trigger will argue the need to take up slack means a loss of control when it comes to the 2-stage trigger. We believe it is more a matter of personal preference.
Suppose you are dead set on owning a CZ rifle and utilizing a 2-stage trigger. In that case, you have two options – purchase one of the limited models equipped with a 2-stage trigger or replace the factory set trigger with an aftermarket 2-stage trigger. Our aftermarket CZ triggers are adjustable and provide a great option with flexibility.
Not a problem in bolt-action rifles, but 2-stage triggers in an AR platform require what I’ll call ‘follow through’ much like a golf swing to retain trigger pressure before easing off to the reset point. Without that additional step it’s too easy for recoil ‘bounce’ to fire a second round in VERY quick succession. Preventing that issue is just a small training issue for the shooter. (I have a Giessele SSA-E (non-adjustable) on my DD M4V7LW)