Terminology: Target Trigger

by
posted on September 18, 2012
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
wiley-clapp.jpg (2)

Primarily applying to Smith & Wesson revolvers, target trigger means an extra-wide trigger that curves gently under your finger. As the term suggests, it is intended for formal target competition.

In theory, if the trigger is wider, more of the surface of your finger will be in contact. This allegedly makes it much easier to pull. S&W used them on its top-end revolvers for decades, along with its lower, wider spur. Many shooters, who work their guns with both DA and SA trigger systems find the target trigger something of a nuisance.

I can remember one of our range masters working over an original narrow trigger to produce one with a straight ridge down the center of the finger pad. Lock the crease of the first joint of your trigger finger on the ridge and go for it! So much for theories.

Latest

Staccato P4x Review 1
Staccato P4x Review 1

First Impressions of the Staccato P4X

Down in Texas, Staccato launched a new pistol to celebrate America's 250th anniversary: the P4X. One can hardly blame them considering that the company's entire product line is based on the 1911, arguably the most American of handguns.

A Big Third Circuit Ruling on America’s Rifle

In an appeal of a case the NRA filed in 2018, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit struck down New Jersey’s ban on “assault weapons” and “large capacity” ammunition magazines as unconstitutional.

Top Cop: How an Armed American Saved President Trump’s Life

An NRA Benefactor Member and NRA Certified Law Enforcement Patrol Rifle Instructor, Sergeant Aaron Zaliponi likely saved the life of President Trump in Butler, Pa. For these reasons, the NRA has selected him as the 2025 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

Review: Rock River Arms A1 Carbine SBR

The Rock River Arms A1 SBR is just plain cool, and there’s little justification needed beyond that for picking up a new gun. It’s a mixture of throwback, retro and nostalgia with a bayonet lug, and you just can’t go wrong there.

The Armed Citizen® July 20, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Plinking Perfect: 5 Must-Haves for Your Next Rimfire Shoot

What better way to celebrate 250 years of freedom than to go out plinking this summer? Here are five great products that will make your next rimfire range trip better than ever before.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.