Distinction Between Single and Two Stage Triggers

[Kirk Freeman]

Confused by the terms "single" and "two stage" triggers? What's the difference and how can I tell what I have?

Modern Pawn and Guns breaks it down with this tutorial for us:

Breaking Down Single & Two-Stage Triggers - The Firearm Blog

 

[Tyler-The-Piker]

this is so weird.
I was just researching this topic earlier today.
INGO delivers...

 

[Kirk Freeman]

INGO delivers...

. . . the snark (well, usually).

 

[sloughfoot]

The 1911 has a two stage trigger. I am always amused by the howls of protests when I make that statement. It is a two stage, single action trigger. Just like all Garands, Mauser boltguns, M1A, Browning HP and many others. Thanks for posting this.....

 

[kludge]

same vid - direct link.

[url]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4MA5OqTsWU
[/URL]

 

[jonny4523]

That's a pretty good video. Thank you for sharing.

 

[BE Mike]

I think that the simple explanation is that a single-stage trigger normally has slack (no weight to speak of) until one reaches the point of resistance. At the point of resistance it takes a total of the trigger weight to actuate the mechanism, i.e. 4 lbs. A two-stage trigger has initial weight, say 2 lbs., until a point of resistance. At that point of resistance, it takes less force to actuate the trigger. For example, it makes a 4 lb. trigger feel like a 2 lb. trigger.