Importance of a match trigger

[Andy T]

I have a precision AR (BCM SS410 based upper) that I am using with a stock USGI trigger. It's not the best, but not the worst trigger.
I am wondering about the importance of a "match" trigger in precision shooting, and what potential improvements, if any, it can provide for a beginning shooter.

 

[Redmanss]

Re: Importance of a match trigger

Stock triggers aren't as consistent as the higher grade triggers, and the increased necessary pull weight have a tendency to cause imperfect trigger control due to the pressure your hand has to apply and the increased time it takes to squeeze off your shot. Are they critical? No, not to an experienced shooter. David Tubbs on his worst day with a stock trigger will still best me when I'm in my prime with a match trigger. However, you being a new shooter will definitely benefit from a quality trigger.

The two biggest improvements you can make to an AR for accuracy's sake is trigger and barrel. Put your money into those and you will see a difference. Being able to squeeze the trigger without disturbing the relation of the sights on the target is much easier on a crisp and light trigger. Then it comes down to dry fire and range time practice to build your skills.

 

[smschulz]

Re: Importance of a match trigger

A quality trigger in a firearm ~ any firearm contributes greatly to it's accuracy and consistency, IMO.
In an accuracy build it is high on the list of 'musts'.
I pretty much use an upgraded trigger in some form or fashion (either a trigger-job or upgraded trigger) in just about every gun I own and especially in rifles.
YMMV

 

[jlficken]

Re: Importance of a match trigger

Better consistency pull to pull is the only real benefit that I have found.

That being said with a Stag milspec trigger in my BCM SS410 upper with standard handguards using a TAllJ-G ACOG and 75gr BTHP reloads I have been able to consistently get 1.5" 5-shot groups at 100yds.

While that isn't a very good test I haven't shot much past that with this rifle and my range only goes to 200yds. If I was shooting 600yds I would get a better trigger and a better scope but for the 100-300yds that I am most likely to shoot I don't see a need for a better trigger.

Then again I got my Rifleman's path at the Appleseed I went to with a 10/22 that had quite possibly the worst trigger I have ever used in my life (~10 lbs and horrible creep) so I'm not too picky when it comes to triggers

 

[Mo_Zam_Beek]

Re: Importance of a match trigger

IMHO the single greatest benefit of a 'match' trigger is that the pull weight has been reduced.

At essence, a straight trigger pull is required. Having a heavy trigger pull or a gitchy spot or two in the travel promotes a less than straight pull. While it is much more difficult to see with a center fire rifle, if when you are shooting a .22 LR - you see the reticle move (at all) after the shot is broken - it is on you. Most of any offending movement can be traced back to how straight one is yarding that trigger back.

If you have a non gitchy stock trigger and you want to keep it a stocker (and you need not be overly concerned about 1000% ignition reliability) then you may play with some JP yellow springs or clipping the leg (long) portion of the stock springs.


Good luck

 

[BIPMaster]

Re: Importance of a match trigger

Having a smooth takeup and clean break will aid in accuracy. You may not notice it in a stock trigger now, but if you have a chance to feel a match trigger such as a Giessele, you will notice how all the creep and grittiness in a stock trigger.