The AR-15 platform's popularity stems partly from its modularity and potential for customization. One area frequently targeted for improvement is the trigger. A smoother, crisper trigger pull can significantly enhance accuracy and overall shooting experience. This guide will walk you through the process of polishing your AR-15 trigger, covering everything from necessary tools to advanced techniques.
Why Polish Your AR-15 Trigger?
Factory AR-15 triggers often have a gritty, rough feel. This can lead to inconsistent trigger pulls, affecting accuracy and potentially slowing your reaction time. Polishing the trigger significantly reduces friction, resulting in:
- Smoother Trigger Pull: A more consistent and predictable pull weight, minimizing surprises during shooting.
- Crisper Break: A cleaner, more defined break between the trigger's engagement and the firing pin release.
- Reduced Creep: Minimizes the amount of trigger travel before the break, improving shot precision.
- Improved Accuracy: By eliminating inconsistencies, polishing contributes to improved shot grouping and overall accuracy.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. Improper tools can damage your trigger components, so careful selection is crucial.
- AR-15 Trigger Parts: Disassemble your trigger group carefully; refer to a detailed disassembly guide specific to your particular trigger if needed. This allows for individual component polishing.
- Fine Grit Sandpaper: Start with 220-grit sandpaper, progressing to 400-grit, then 600-grit, and finally 1000-grit or higher for a mirror finish.
- Polishing Compound: Use a fine polishing compound such as Mothers Mag & Aluminum Polish or equivalent.
- Microfiber Cloths: Essential for cleaning and removing polishing residue.
- Small Container: To hold your polishing compound.
- Cotton Swabs: For applying and removing polishing compound in tight spaces.
- Safety Glasses: Always wear eye protection when working with small parts and abrasives.
- Non-Marring Work Surface: A soft cloth or rubber mat protects the parts during polishing.
- Compressed Air (Optional): For removing dust and debris.
- Trigger Jig (Optional): Helps maintain proper trigger alignment during polishing.
The Polishing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
This process focuses on the critical contact points within the trigger mechanism. Remember, less is more; aggressive polishing can compromise the trigger's function.
- Disassembly: Carefully disassemble your AR-15 trigger group. Consult a reliable guide specific to your trigger model if needed.
- Cleaning: Thoroughly clean all parts with a solvent and a brush to remove any grease, dirt, or debris.
- Inspection: Carefully examine each component for burrs, machining marks, or other imperfections.
- Sanding: Using fine-grit sandpaper (starting with 220-grit), gently sand any rough areas or imperfections. Focus on the contact points of moving parts. Gradually progress to higher grits (400, 600, 1000). Keep the sandpaper flat to avoid introducing new imperfections.
- Polishing: Apply a small amount of polishing compound to a microfiber cloth. Gently polish each part, focusing on the contact surfaces. Use cotton swabs for hard to reach areas. Be careful not to apply excessive pressure.
- Cleaning: Thoroughly clean all parts with a microfiber cloth to remove any remaining polishing compound or residue.
- Reassembly: Carefully reassemble the trigger group, ensuring proper alignment of all parts. Consult your disassembly guide for proper reassembly procedures.
- Testing: Before reinstalling the trigger group in your lower receiver, dry-fire the trigger several times to check for smooth operation. Observe the pull weight, break, and reset.
Advanced Techniques and Considerations
- Electrolytic Polishing: This more advanced technique produces an exceptionally smooth finish but requires specialized equipment and expertise.
- Trigger Job: A complete trigger job often involves replacing some parts, like the hammer and sear, with aftermarket components for lighter or different pull weights. This is often best left to a gunsmith with experience.
- Safety: Always prioritize safety. Handle firearms responsibly, and always follow safe gun handling practices. Never point a firearm at anything you don't intend to shoot.
Conclusion
Polishing your AR-15 trigger can significantly enhance your shooting experience. By following this comprehensive guide and using the right techniques and tools, you can achieve a smoother, more consistent trigger pull, leading to improved accuracy and enjoyment. However, remember that modifying your firearm requires careful attention to detail and safety. If you are uncomfortable performing this modification, consult with a qualified gunsmith.
