How Rifle Trigger Material Affects Trigger Performance

Whether you are building your first rifle or adding another to your collection, having the right trigger is a key component to future performance. You will undoubtedly spend countless hours debating shape, adjustability, and even color, but how much time will you spend considering what the trigger is made of?

You may not realize it, but the trigger material can be a significant factor in trigger performance, affecting everything from weight to crispness. The same design from two materials can be a world apart in terms of overall performance. A steel trigger, for example, will be highly durable and long-lasting. That same trigger made from polymer will weigh less, but at what cost? Usually, the tradeoff included a loss of crispness and reduced lifespan.

Let’s look at some of the more popular trigger materials and some of their pros vs. cons:

Steel Triggers

Steel is one of the oldest trigger materials; the most common trigger type is production rifles. It is also very popular with those looking to build their rifles due to low cost and durability; a good quality steel trigger will likely last a lifetime. However, some tradeoffs exist, such as higher weight and increased maintenance in humid climates. Items such as crispness will vary depending on the specific composition and finish.

Aluminum Triggers

Aluminum is a favorite among custom builders and manufacturers of high-grade triggers due to its combination of lighter weight, corrosion resistance, and smooth action. Although slightly more expensive than steel, the extra cost is worth it for those looking for a consistent, smooth feel and quick reset. Other than cost, the only real downside is a tendency to wear out quicker, especially when subjected to heavy use, such as competitive shooting.

Polymer Triggers

The polymer has become very popular among firearm accessory manufacturers, providing a lightweight, cost-effective means of mass-producing everything from stocks to triggers. Although they offer a cheap and good alternative for entry-level rifles, several disadvantages make their use in high-end precision platforms unlikely. Not only are they prone to premature wear, but their increased flexibility often leads to a less crisp or predictable feel than other materials.

Alloy Triggers

The use of alloys in trigger manufacturing allows the best of both worlds. You can achieve steel’s durability and aluminum’s decreased weight without losing performance with the right combination. However, the cost of alloys can be higher than either steel or aluminum, and variations in composition can result in unpredictability from one unit to the next. The key to long-term reliability and consistency is selecting a reliable manufacturer with a high level of quality control.

Selecting Which Trigger is Best for You

It would be easy to say, “X is the best material for triggers”; however, this would ignore the fact that not every shooter has the same priorities or needs. Precision shooters, for example, value a clean, crisp break. On the other hand, hunters require a trigger that will withstand years of use under demanding conditions and extreme environments. Furthermore, it is essential to remember that not every rifle owner can pick a trigger without considering the cost. This is why less dependable materials, such as polymer, are a popular option. Despite their reduced performance, they provide a cost-effective alternative for recreational, non-precision shooting.

Rifle Basix understands the need to provide high-quality, dependable trigger assemblies and a variety of options to meet every shooter’s needs. Whether you are upgrading your CZ or bringing new life to an air loom Remington, our CNC machined T6 6061 aluminum housings and A-2 tool steel internal levers are backed by a lifetime guarantee.

When selecting your replacement trigger, material is as important as cost or brand. Although a cheaper version may save money in the short term, it is likely to cost far more in the long term when you consider future replacement, poor performance, and disappointing results. This is why Rifle Basix recommends you check out our selection of trigger housings available for every need and every situation. Here at Rifle Basix, we understand the importance of high-quality components that can be counted on round after round.