Rare Breed Trigger Models

Rare Breed Triggers burst onto the firearms scene with a product that immediately sparked interest, curiosity, and controversy — the FRT-15. The acronym FRT stands for “Forced Reset Trigger,” a type of AR-15 trigger designed to increase the speed of follow-up shots while still functioning differently from full-auto fire. This innovation brought attention from competitive shooters, tactical enthusiasts, and even firearm regulators.

The FRT-15 was marketed as a revolutionary drop-in AR-15 trigger system. Unlike standard semi-automatic triggers, which rely solely on finger action for reset, the FRT uses mechanical force to push the trigger forward after each shot. This allows the shooter to fire more rapidly while technically staying within the legal definitions of semi-automatic operation.

But the hype around Rare Breed Triggers is not just about speed. Each variant of the FRT-15 — original, E3, L3, and L2 — offers unique features and refinements. These models cater to different needs, whether it’s smoother operation, enhanced durability, or improved compatibility. At the same time, the legal battles surrounding FRTs make them a hot topic in the firearms community.

So, what exactly makes the Rare Breed FRT-15 triggers stand out? Let’s dive deep into how these triggers work, compare their different versions, and explore their future in the shooting world.

Understanding Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs)

To appreciate the innovation behind Rare Breed’s products, it’s important to understand what a Forced Reset Trigger is and how it operates.

A Forced Reset Trigger uses a mechanical system to push the trigger forward after each shot. In a standard AR-15 trigger, the shooter must consciously release pressure before resetting. With an FRT, the trigger “forces” itself forward, ready for the next pull. The shooter’s finger remains engaged, but the system accelerates the process, resulting in much faster follow-up shots compared to conventional semi-automatic triggers.

Here’s the breakdown of how FRTs differ from other triggers:

• Standard AR-15 Trigger: One pull, one shot, manual reset.

• Binary Trigger: Fires once on the pull and once on the release.

• FRT: Fires one shot per pull but resets mechanically for quicker firing.

This mechanism makes the FRT extremely attractive for shooters who want a high rate of fire without venturing into fully automatic territory. However, this also explains why the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives) has scrutinized FRTs. Some legal interpretations suggest that they blur the line between semi-auto and full-auto, leading to uncertainty around their legality.

Despite the controversy, many gun owners see FRTs as a groundbreaking advancement for AR platforms. They provide a middle ground between standard semi-auto triggers and full-auto operation, appealing to those who value speed, competition readiness, and innovation in shooting technology.

The Original FRT-15 Trigger

The FRT 15 Trigger was the model that started it all. Rare Breed introduced this drop-in trigger assembly as a way to revolutionize the AR-15 shooting experience. Unlike many aftermarket triggers, the FRT-15 was designed with speed as its primary selling point, boasting a rapid reset system that could dramatically increase a shooter’s rate of fire.

Key Features of the Original FRT-15:

• Drop-in AR-15 compatibility

• Forced reset mechanism for faster shooting

• Enhanced durability with steel components

• Crisp trigger break for improved accuracy

Performance-wise, the original FRT 15 Trigger offered shooters a significant edge. Competitive shooters, in particular, loved its ability to deliver near-full-auto rates of fire while technically operating within semi-automatic boundaries. However, this speed came with a learning curve. Shooters needed to adapt to the unique feel of the forced reset mechanism, which felt very different from traditional triggers.

Advantages of the FRT-15:

• Lightning-fast follow-up shots

• Reduced split times between rounds

• Crisp and clean trigger break

• Easy installation for most AR platforms

Limitations of the FRT-15:

• Steeper learning curve for first-time users

• Higher price point compared to other aftermarket triggers

• Potential legal risks depending on jurisdiction

Overall, the FRT-15 was a game-changer. It set the stage for Rare Breed to expand their lineup with enhanced models like the E3, L3, and L2, each offering refinements based on user feedback and evolving needs.

The FRT-15 E3 Trigger

The E3 is the next step in Rare Breed’s evolution of the FRT line. While the original FRT-15 was groundbreaking, it also revealed areas for improvement. The FRT 15 E3 Trigger model addressed those concerns by introducing mechanical refinements that made it smoother, more reliable, and better suited for different shooting applications.

Key Upgrades in the FRT-15 E3:

• Improved reset mechanics for smoother operation

• Reduced wear and tear on components

• Enhanced compatibility with a wider range of AR platforms

• A more intuitive feel for shooters transitioning from standard triggers

Performance-wise, the E3 offered a more polished shooting experience. The trigger pull felt cleaner, the reset felt more natural, and shooters reported less mechanical resistance. This made it easier for both competitive shooters and recreational users to adapt to the system.

The E3 also became popular among tactical shooters, who valued reliability under heavy use. Its refined engineering reduced the likelihood of malfunctions, making it a more practical option for training and high-volume shooting.

Who Benefits Most from the E3?

• Competitive Shooters: Faster response times without sacrificing control

• Tactical Users: Enhanced reliability for real-world scenarios

• Casual AR Owners: A smoother introduction to FRT systems

By refining the original concept, the E3 cemented Rare Breed’s reputation as an innovator in AR trigger technology.

The FRT-15 L3 Trigger

The FRT 15 L3 Trigger variant pushes the FRT system even further, designed for shooters who demand high reliability, enhanced durability, and improved ergonomics. Compared to the original and the E3, the L3 focuses on fine-tuning the shooting experience while addressing long-term wear issues.

Unique Features of the FRT-15 L3:

• Reinforced internal components for extended lifespan

• Enhanced ergonomics for smoother operation

• More consistent trigger reset under rapid fire

• Built with higher tolerance machining for precision fit

When tested side by side with the E3, the L3 showed a noticeable improvement in smoothness and durability. Shooters who ran their rifles through thousands of rounds without failure reported that the L3 maintained performance better than earlier models.

Compared to the original FRT-15, the L3 feels more refined. Compared to the E3, it offers sturdier construction and longer-lasting reliability. For shooters who demand the best balance of performance and durability, the L3 stands out as the most advanced option.

The FRT-15 L2 Trigger

The FRT 15 L2 trigger represents another evolution in the Rare Breed FRT lineup, and while it may not get as much spotlight as the E3 or L3, it has a dedicated following among shooters who value balance and compatibility. Where the L3 focuses heavily on durability and enhanced precision machining, the L2 offers a middle ground — delivering performance improvements over the original FRT-15 while keeping things simple for those who don’t necessarily need the advanced features of the higher-tier models.

Key Features of the FRT-15 L2:

• Optimized reset system for faster follow-up shots compared to the original FRT-15

• Lightweight design with carefully engineered components

• Easier installation process compared to other variants

• Compatibility with a broad range of AR-15 rifles

One of the standout aspects of the L2 is its approachability. Many shooters who were hesitant to jump straight into the E3 or L3 started with the L2. Its slightly simplified mechanics, combined with reliable performance, make it an excellent “entry-level” forced reset trigger without sacrificing the unique benefits that set FRTs apart from traditional triggers.

Advantages of the L2 Trigger:

• Affordable compared to higher-end FRT models

• User-friendly for shooters new to forced reset systems

• Delivers noticeable speed improvements over standard AR triggers

• Smooth operation with minimal break-in period

Potential Drawbacks of the L2:

• Less durable than the L3 under extreme, high-volume shooting conditions

• May lack some of the fine-tuning offered by the E3

• Limited appeal for competitive shooters who demand the absolute best performance

In summary, the L2 serves as a reliable middle option within the FRT lineup. It gives shooters a taste of the forced reset experience with fewer complexities, making it a great choice for recreational users and those exploring advanced trigger technology without committing to the highest price point.

Which Model Should You Choose?

• If you’re a newcomer to FRTs → Start with the L2.

• If you want balanced performance → Go with the E3.

• If you demand extreme reliability → The L3 is your best bet.

• If you’re curious about the original design → The FRT-15 will give you the authentic first experience.

This side-by-side comparison helps shooters align their needs with the right model, whether they prioritize affordability, smooth operation, or long-term durability.

Performance Testing and Reliability

Performance is the ultimate test of any trigger system. Shooters often judge FRTs based not only on how quickly they can fire but also on how reliably the trigger functions under stress, heat, and high round counts.

In live testing, the original FRT-15 showed noticeable speed advantages over standard AR-15 triggers, but some shooters reported stiffness and a steeper adjustment period. The E3, on the other hand, smoothed out many of those concerns. Its reset felt natural, which helped shooters transition more quickly without compromising control.

The L3 stood out in long-term testing. Competitive shooters and tactical users ran thousands of rounds through their rifles and found the trigger maintained consistency without significant wear. For those who shoot regularly in competitions or training environments, the L3 proved to be the most dependable.

Meanwhile, the L2 offered reliable performance for recreational use. While not designed for the abuse of daily competition, it held up well under casual shooting conditions. For weekend shooters, the L2 struck the right balance between performance and cost-effectiveness.

Durability Considerations:

• Heat Resistance: FRT-15 triggers are built to withstand sustained fire, but higher-end models like the L3 handle heat better.

• Component Wear: Reinforced steel in the E3 and L3 reduces wear and extends trigger life.

• Accuracy Impact: While FRTs are designed primarily for speed, their crisp break can actually enhance accuracy when controlled properly.

Ultimately, all models deliver on the promise of speed, but the differences show up in how well they endure long-term use and how comfortable they feel to the shooter.

FRT-15 Triggers vs. Other AR-15 Trigger Systems

The FRT-15 isn’t the only aftermarket trigger option for AR-15 platforms. To understand where it fits, let’s compare it with other popular trigger systems.

Standard AR-15 Triggers:

• Pros: Affordable, widely available, straightforward function.

• Cons: Slower follow-up shots, less exciting for advanced shooters.

Binary Triggers:

• Pros: Fires on both pull and release, faster than standard triggers.

• Cons: Learning curve, different feel, and legal challenges in some states.

FRT-15 Triggers:

• Pros: Extremely fast follow-up shots, crisp trigger break, semi-auto legal in many areas.

• Cons: Higher cost, ongoing legal scrutiny, and complexity.

Why Shooters Choose FRTs:

FRT-15 triggers provide a sweet spot for shooters who want speed close to full-auto without crossing legal boundaries. They bridge the gap between binary triggers and traditional setups, offering a unique shooting experience. Competitive shooters appreciate the reduced split times, while recreational shooters enjoy the thrill of rapid fire with precision control.

For many gun owners, the decision comes down to whether they value raw speed and innovation enough to navigate the learning curve and potential legal gray areas of owning an FRT.