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What is a Forced Reset Trigger?

Quick Answer

A forced reset trigger (FRT) is a firearm trigger system that uses the firearm’s cycling action to mechanically force the trigger forward (reset) after each shot, allowing for a faster rate of fire while still requiring a separate trigger pull for every round fired.

Simple Explanation

In a standard trigger, you release your finger forward to reset the trigger after firing.

With an FRT:

  • The system pushes the trigger forward for you
  • This allows for faster follow-up shots
  • But you still need to pull the trigger each time

** It is NOT fully automatic. One trigger movement still equals one round fired.**

How it works

How a Forced Reset Trigger Works

A Forced Reset Trigger is a mechanically assisted semi-automatic trigger system. Its defining feature is that the trigger is actively reset forward by mechanical force during the firearm’s operating cycle.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

  1. You pull the trigger → the firearm fires

  2. The bolt carrier cycles backward

  3. The trigger system forces the trigger forward (reset)

  4. As long as you maintain pressure, you can quickly pull again

  5. The cycle repeats for each shot

Key Components Involved

  • Trigger shoe
  • Firing System
  • Disconnector
  • Bolt carrier group (BCG)
  • Reset mechanism (unique to FRT systems)


These components work together to synchronize trigger reset with the firearm’s action cycle.

Cutaway diagram of a forced reset trigger showing the trigger reset forward and the hammer retained, ready for the next separate trigger pull
Cutaway view of an AR-15 lower receiver showing trigger pull and hammer release during the initial firing step of a forced reset trigger
Internal view of an AR-15 lower receiver showing bolt carrier interaction and mechanical forward reset of the trigger in a forced reset trigger system
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