How an FRT actually works — and why it is a semi-automatic trigger, not a machine gun.
A forced reset trigger (FRT) is a semi-automatic AR-15 trigger with a twist: after each shot, a spring-driven mechanism forces the trigger to reset forward against your finger. That fast, positive reset lets you fire quickly and controllably — but the trigger still fires exactly one round for each function of the trigger.
| Type | Rounds per trigger action | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Standard trigger | One per pull | Semi-automatic |
| Forced reset (FRT) | One per function (fast reset) | Semi-automatic |
| Binary trigger | One on pull + one on release | Semi-automatic (device-specific rules) |
| Machine gun | Multiple per single function | NFA machine gun |
The legal line for a machine gun is firing more than one round “by a single function of the trigger.” An FRT never does that — it just resets faster. That distinction is the basis of the 2025 federal settlement recognizing FRTs as semi-automatic. State law can still restrict them, so verify yours.
Ready to run one? Start with the FRT-15L3 and our setup guide.
This page is general information, not legal advice. Firearm law changes and varies by jurisdiction. Confirm the current law where you live before ordering, and consult a qualified attorney if you are unsure.