Tips & Techniques: Determining Trigger Reset

by
posted on September 23, 2019
** 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. **
trigger-reset.jpg

Trigger reset occurs after a handgun has fired and its trigger is released forward. It signals that the gun’s internal mechanism has re-engaged and is ready to fire another shot. As the trigger is released, the reset is typically felt and/or heard at a specific point in the trigger’s forward travel. Generally, a shorter/quicker reset is preferred. Some shooters even train to press the trigger again immediately after it reaches the reset point. Such “shooting to reset,” can be incorporated into dryfire practice as follows: Starting with an unloaded firearm in a safe area, dry fire it and hold the trigger to the rear after the trigger breaks; then manually rack the slide and carefully release the trigger until there is an audible or tactile “click.” 

Additional Reading:
Tips & Techniques: Cast Bullet Fit in Revolvers
Tips & Techniques: Stock Drag
Tips & Techniques: Stay in the Scope
Tips & Techniques: When Adjusting Sights, Remember "FORS"
Tips & Techniques: "Take Out The Slack" To Keep Accessories In Place
Tips & Techniques: Rotate-To-Fire In Close Encounters

Latest

Youth Shooting Sports Growth
Youth Shooting Sports Growth

Growth in Youth Shooting Sports Signals Bright Future for the 2nd Amendment

Judging by the record number joining clubs and teams, mass-media’s disinformation and political rhetoric are losing their luster with today’s youth, who are making time to head to the range.

Go-Bag Essentials: 5 Key Products for Your Escape Kit

These five products will help you remain comfortable and safe should you need to bug out in a hurry due to natural or man-made disasters.

10 Things You (Probably) Didn't Know About The Smith & Wesson Model 29

Without a doubt, the Smith & Wesson Model 29 is one of the 20th century’s most shootable, collectible "superstar" revolvers. Here are a few little-known facts about the gun.

Packable Punch: Discreet Ways to Carry More Firepower

While folding and takedown firearms chambered for full-power rifle cartridges may be niche defensive tools, the dark situations in which they shine brightest aren’t going away anytime soon.

Southpaw Solution: Ruger Introduces Left-Handed American Gen II Ranch Rifles

Traditionally, Ruger has offered a range of left-handed rifle models for the southpaws among us, and now, the company's Gen II American rifles are available in a left-handed variant, starting with the Ranch models.

Gun of the Week: Kimber 1911 DS Warrior LW

In 2026, Kimber developed its 1911 DS Warrior, an American-made, double-stack design that is intended to be an affordable entry point into Kimber's double-stack handgun line.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.