What is the two-stage adjustable trigger?

Answer 1

In a firearm, the travel of the trigger can be described as either a single or a two stage movement. In a single stage trigger, there is little appreciable movement of the trigger as it is pulled. As the shooter adds pressure with his or her finger, the trigger is gradually getting closer to the peak force required to overcome the sear (a catch that releases the hammer). This force is measured in pounds and when the trigger releases it is said to "break" at such 'n such pounds. It often surprises the shooter in that until one gets used to that particular trigger, he or she is uncertain when that peak force is achieved.

In a two stage trigger, the peak force is divided by stages. The first stage offers the shooter a noticeable movement of the trigger to the rear, with a gradual build up of force. At some point the rearward motion ceases while the shooter continues to add force with his or her finger. This is the 'second' stage and requires just a little more pressure to break the trigger and release the sear. The fist stage is often desired to give the shooter a sense of timing, and in the case of military or law enforcement, gives that last fraction of a moment before having to make a deadly decision.

An adjustable trigger may be either single or two staged. Adjustable simply means that the amount of force required to break the trigger can be changed from light to heavy, within a specified range of weight, depending on the intended use of the firearm. Usually adjustable triggers are used in competition where the trigger might be set for as little as 2 or 3 ounces of pull in order to fire the gun. That is not a safe pull weight for law enforcement or self defense for obvious reasons. Most military/LE triggers are set to break in the 4-6lb range. A trigger may also be adjustable for the distance it travels backward and when it resets itself after firing.

After you have shot alot, you will begin to notice significant differences, and develop preferences for certain trigger setups and is is then you might find yourself wanting a two stage adjustable trigger. Be prepared with your wallet as they are not cheep, but they are considered by many, to be the best.