There seems to be a lot of hoopla over Force Reset Triggers or FRT for short. What is a FRT? We will get into that. Also, what makes a FRT different from a full auto fire control group? How does the ATF define a machine gun? Is it worth it? Who are the manufactures of these fire control groups? What are the different types of FRTs? I will try to explain this, and hopefully more.

What is a Force Reset Trigger?

Simply, it is a fire control that mechanically resets the trigger for every time the firearm is discharged. The trigger is being reset with every round discharged. That is what makes it legal. The process is mechanically assisted. Forced reset triggers (FRTs) enable faster follow-up shots by mechanically pushing the trigger forward using the bolt carrier group’s energy.

Defining a Machine Gun;

According to the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives), a machine gun is defined as any weapon that shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot automatically more than one shot without manual reloading by a single function of the trigger. This legal definition also includes the frame, receiver, or any parts designed solely to convert a weapon into a machine gun.

The cons of a FRT;

If you ever wanted to own a machine gun, this is the closest thing to it. But it’s very expensive. Not only to purchase, but to shoot as well. A Super Safety will run around $200. A Drop-in costs $450. To shoot “forced reset” expends ammo really fast. 20 rounds in less than 8 seconds. Figure the cost of ammo from your local gun store or off the internet. Then there is the wear and tear of the firearm. Machine guns are typically designed to withstand the harsh use of continuous fire. Most DIY FRT firearms are not configured to withstand continuous use and risk mechanical failure prematurely. Even then, those firearms need constant maintenance and repair. My point is, it can get expensive. I would recommend a chrome lined barrel, at least.

Types of FRTs;

Super Safety

The first configuration of the FRT is the Super Safety. This is an active trigger system for AR-15 platforms designed by Hoffman Tactical, which was publicly released in July 2023. It is a 3D-printable, push-button mechanism that replaces the standard safety selector, allowing for a faster trigger reset to enable quicker semi-automatic firing. A lever is added to the push button selector that the bolt carrier uses to reset the trigger. The 3D-printable specs can be downloaded for free off the internet. I would highly recommend installing the metal CNC manufactured version.

Drop-in

A drop-in FRT (Forced Reset Trigger) is an aftermarket trigger group for AR-15 platforms that uses the bolt carrier group’s rearward movement to mechanically force the trigger forward to its reset point. Designed for fast, “drop-in” installation without custom gunsmithing, it acts as a semi-automatic trigger that allows for a high rate of fire. It replaces standard Mil-Spec triggers, hammers, and safeties, typically including a modified safety selector, such as the Partisan Disruptor or Rare Breed FRT-15. Known as a 3-position selector, it offers “Safe,” “Semi,” and “FRT” (forced reset) modes. Optimal performance typically requires an M16-cut or Mil-spec Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) and a heavy buffer (H2 or H3) to handle the increased cyclic rate. Often referred to by specific models like the Rare Breed FRT-15 or the Partisan Disruptor.
Brands of FRT

Major brands and types include Rare Breed Triggers (FRT-15), Partisan Triggers (Disruptor), Texas Trigger (Diablo), Wide Open Trigger, and Martian/Mars, along with DIY “Super Safety” kits. On

Platforms

While mostly for AR-15s, options exist for AK-47, H&K and Glock platforms. Forced reset triggers are subject to ongoing legal challenges and scrutiny by the ATF, which can affect availability and ownership in various jurisdictions. Always check with the local laws. 

Well, that brings us to the end of this article, I hope it helps. Please ask questions and make some comments. I would like to hear from you.

Thank You,

Rod Rice

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