What exactly does a force reset trigger do

In a typical semi-automatic firearm, the sear and the trigger are not directly connected. When the trigger is pulled, the sear releases the bolt (or equivalent) which strikes the cartidge. The detonation cycles the weapon, and the sear catches the bolt again to prevent it from banging into the next cartridge and firing a second time.

A common way to interconnect the trigger and sear is something called a “disconnector“. You pull the trigger, the disconnector gets pushed by the trigger, the disconnector releases the sear so the weapon can fire. After the weapon cycles, you have to release the trigger so the disconnector can “reset” and connect to both the trigger and sear again. The weapon cannot be fired until this reset happens and the trigger is pulled a second time. The sear and trigger are physically disconnected until the reset completes (ergo the name, “disconnector”.)

As the FRT name suggests, a force reset trigger “forces” this reset to occur as part of the weapon cycling. It shoves the trigger forward, rather than requiring you to release pressure on the trigger and pull it again.

What this means, practically, is that the operator can achieve a high rate of fire simply by squeezing the trigger and maintaining pressure on it. Every time the FRT resets the disconnector, the maintained pressure will immediately cause the trigger to pull again and cause another weapon cycle.

And before the gunsmiths come at me, this is the ELI5 version. I know it’s actually a bit more complex than that.

FRT-15C3™ Two-Stage (3-Position) Forced Reset Trigger for the AR-15

Take your AR-15 to the next level with the official Rare Breed Triggers FRT-15C3. This drop-in, duty-grade 3-position Forced Reset Trigger (Safe/Semi/FRT) is 100% manufactured and assembled in the USA. The FRT-15C3™ includes a 3-position ambidextrous safety selector and anti-walk pins for a secure, hassle-free installation.

Performance on the Range
Enhance your shooting experience with the FRT-15C3™ Forced Reset Trigger. Designed to accelerate follow-up shots while remaining within legal parameters, the innovative Forced Reset system resets the trigger after each shot, enabling faster, more consistent firing. Each trigger pull fires one round, ensuring full legal compliance while delivering improved speed and performance. Perfect for competitive shooting, tactical training, or maximizing your AR-15’s potential.

Innovative Design and Features

• 3-Position Functionality: The FRT-15C3™ features Safe, Semi, and Forced Reset modes, controlled via a 3-position, ambidextrous safety selector. Whether you’re focused on precision shooting or rapid-fire drills, this system adapts to your needs, offering versatility for both left- and right-handed shooters.
• Effortless Installation: Designed for easy installation on MIL-SPEC AR-15 lowers, the FRT-15C3™ includes anti-walk trigger pins, providing secure attachment and preventing unwanted movement during extended use. The ambidextrous safety selector seamlessly integrates into any MIL-SPEC lower receiver.

Two-Stage Semi-Automatic Mode & Single-Stage FRT Mode

• Semi-Automatic Mode: In Semi-Automatic mode, the trigger provides two distinct stages during the trigger travel. The first stage, approximately 2.5 lbs of pull weight, can be referred to as “take-up.” The second stage is a crisp “wall” requiring an additional 2 lbs of pressure to break. This results in a very smooth, crisp 4–4.5 lb trigger pull that allows for predictable, controlled, and extremely fast follow-up shots.
• Forced Reset (FRT) Mode: In FRT mode, the trigger provides a heavier 5–5.5 lb single-stage pull weight throughout the entire length of travel.

Durable Construction for Long-Lasting Performance
Crafted from high-quality materials, including 7075 anodized aluminum and heat-treated S7 steel, the FRT-15C3™ is built to endure heavy use. This robust construction ensures reliability and longevity, allowing you to push your AR-15 to its limits with confidence.

AR-15 Compatibility
The FRT-15C3™ is compatible with MIL-SPEC AR-15 lowers and requires a full-auto-compatible bolt carrier group for proper functionality. For optimal performance, we also recommend using an H2 or H3 buffer, or alternatively, an A5 buffer system. Please note: The FRT-15C3™ may not fit in certain Colt models or other lowers with a sear block/shelf.

Unmatched Speed and Control
The FRT-15C3™ is ideal for shooters seeking speed and precision. By mechanically resetting the trigger after each shot, then locking the trigger from being pulled until the BCG returns to battery, this system allows for faster follow-up shots without needing advanced techniques. The forced reset mechanism ensures the trigger returns to the non-firing position after each round, requiring the shooter to pull the trigger again, offering full control over each shot.

Why Choose the FRT-15C3™ Forced Reset Trigger?
If you’re looking to boost your AR-15’s performance, the FRT-15C3™ Forced Reset Trigger is the ultimate upgrade. With its rapid-fire capability, secure anti-rotation design, and seamless compatibility with the AR-15 platform, this trigger provides a superior shooting experience for competition, tactical use, or range drills. Unlock the full potential of your AR-15 with the FRT-15C3™.

Manufactured and Assembled in the USA

Patent Notice: This product is covered by one or more U.S. Patents, including U.S. Patent Nos. 12,038,247 and 12,578,159. Additional patents may be pending. Unauthorized manufacture, use, sale, or importation of this product or its covered features may constitute patent infringement.