Is the AR Gold a Single-Stage or Two-Stage trigger?

2 min. readlast update: 03.19.2025

The AR Gold trigger is best described as a hybrid design, combining the best aspects of single-stage triggers with a unique take-up feature. It's not strictly a traditional single-stage or two-stage trigger.

Understanding Trigger Mechanics:

To understand the AR Gold's design, it's helpful to understand the limitations of traditional single-stage and two-stage triggers in the AR platform.

  • Single-Stage Triggers:
    • While offering a crisp break, traditional single-stage AR triggers often suffer from reliability and durability issues due to the minimal engagement surfaces required for a light pull.
    • The constant impact of the hammer on the sear during reset leads to rapid wear and potential doubling.
    • A lack of pre-travel can increase the risk of accidental discharge.
  • Two-Stage Triggers:
    • Two-stage triggers provide a distinct first stage of travel followed by a heavier second stage, offering a degree of control.
    • However, they can hinder high-speed shooting, as shooters may "fish" for the second stage, and they can cause fatigue and flinching in precision shooting.
    • They are not widely used outside of specific competition shooting.

The AR Gold Hybrid Solution:

The AR Gold trigger addresses these limitations with a unique hybrid design:

  • Single-Stage with Take-Up:
    • It functions primarily as a single-stage trigger, providing a crisp, clean break.
    • However, it incorporates a very light (approximately 8 oz.) take-up, similar to a high-quality 1911 trigger.
    • During this take-up, the sear does not move, ensuring a clean and consistent feel.
    • This take-up allows the shooter to confirm finger placement and readiness before reaching the "wall" where the sear engages.
    • Once the wall is reached, applying additional pressure will release the hammer with no perceptible movement.
  • Enhanced Reliability:
    • By departing from the standard AR trigger design, the AR Gold eliminates the reliability and wear issues common to traditional match-grade AR triggers.
    • It also delivers a very short reset.

In summary: The AR Gold trigger offers the crisp break of a single-stage trigger with the added benefit of a light take-up, providing enhanced control and reliability. This hybrid design makes it suitable for a wide range of shooting applications, from high-speed to precision shooting.

Was this article helpful?