Let’s Talk About Sons of Liberty Gun Works Liberty Competition Trigger
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Liberty Competition Trigger promises to bridge the gap between the reliability of a Mil-Spec trigger and the enhanced performance of aftermarket options. Sons of Liberty Gun Works (SOLGW) is known for their commitment to function over form, emphasizing reliable parts for the AR-15 platform. At a price point of around $80, it aims to deliver a smoother, faster trigger pull without sacrificing dependability.
I was looking to upgrade the trigger in my go-to AR-15. I wanted a trigger that would offer faster follow-up shots during practical shooting competitions without compromising the rifle’s reliability in a defensive situation.
Out of the box, the Liberty Competition Trigger appears well-made, with a clean Nickel PTFE coating on the trigger and hammer. The included slave pin is a thoughtful addition, promising a straightforward installation. My initial impression was positive; it felt like a quality component, although the true test would be in its performance.
I was considering the Geissele SSA-E and the LaRue MBT-2S. However, I chose the SOLGW Liberty Competition Trigger due to its lower price point and promise of Mil-Spec reliability with an enhanced trigger pull. I was hoping for a “best of both worlds” scenario. It seemed like a good compromise between budget and performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sons of Liberty Gun Works Liberty Competition Trigger to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Sons of Liberty Gun Works Liberty Competition Trigger was at my local outdoor shooting range. I tested it in my AR-15, engaging targets at distances from 25 to 100 yards.
The conditions were relatively dry, with a slight breeze. The trigger immediately felt different than the stock Mil-Spec trigger. It had a noticeably lighter and crisper break, making it easier to achieve accurate shots. The trigger had a short reset as well.
I experienced a few light strikes during the first few magazines, especially with cheaper bulk-pack ammunition. This was a bit concerning, but I persisted with higher-quality ammo, and the problem subsided. This experience directly reflected the user feedback provided in the product details.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and approximately 500 rounds fired, the Liberty Competition Trigger has held up reasonably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the trigger or hammer surfaces.
Maintaining the trigger has been simple. A quick cleaning with CLP and a dry brush after each range session is all that’s needed.
While the trigger pull is smoother than a standard Mil-Spec trigger, it has not consistently performed at the level of more expensive aftermarket triggers I have used. It is good, but not great. The light strike issue with some ammo is a recurring concern, making me question its absolute reliability under all circumstances.
Breaking Down the Features of Sons of Liberty Gun Works Liberty Competition Trigger
Specifications
The Manufacturer is Sons of Liberty Gun Works (SOLGW), a company known for its focus on reliable AR-15 components.
The trigger is black in color, and features a curved trigger shape.
It uses Mil-Spec trigger pin size (.154) ensuring compatibility with most AR-15 lower receivers. The trigger is designed to be ambidextrous and is suited for AR-15 rifles.
The Liberty Competition Trigger is designed for the AR platform and is suitable for AR-15 rifle builds.
The trigger and hammer are coated with Nickel PTFE for reduced friction.
It offers a single-stage trigger pull with a short reset.
The trigger is available with either a 5.25 or 4.5-pound trigger pull, achieved through an enhanced spring set.
The Liberty Competition Trigger includes a slave pin to facilitate easier installation.
These specifications are essential for understanding the trigger’s capabilities and compatibility. The Nickel PTFE coating promises smoother operation, while the Mil-Spec pin size ensures broad compatibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Liberty Competition Trigger improves upon a standard Mil-Spec trigger, offering a lighter and crisper trigger pull. This makes it easier to achieve accurate and rapid follow-up shots.
Its strengths include the noticeably lighter trigger pull and short reset, contributing to faster shooting. The primary weakness is the occasional light strike with lower-quality ammunition, as noted in the product description. This suggests it is not as forgiving as a standard Mil-Spec trigger.
The Liberty Competition Trigger meets expectations for a trigger in its price range. However, it doesn’t outperform higher-end triggers in terms of consistency and reliability with all types of ammunition.
Design & Ergonomics
The Liberty Competition Trigger features a curved trigger bow. The Nickel PTFE coating gives it a smooth, clean look.
The trigger feels comfortable during extended shooting sessions, and the curved bow is a familiar and ergonomic design. The installation, aided by the included slave pin, is relatively straightforward, although some basic gunsmithing knowledge is helpful.
Durability & Maintenance
The materials and construction of the Liberty Competition Trigger appear robust, suggesting it should last for thousands of rounds with proper care.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only regular cleaning and lubrication. There are no proprietary parts that would make repair exceptionally difficult.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Liberty Competition Trigger does not come with any specific accessories beyond the included slave pin.
Being a standard AR-15 trigger, it is compatible with most aftermarket anti-walk pins and trigger springs. The trigger is not meant to be further customized, but rather installed as a complete unit.
Pros and Cons of Sons of Liberty Gun Works Liberty Competition Trigger
Pros
- Noticeably lighter and crisper trigger pull compared to a standard Mil-Spec trigger.
- Short reset allows for faster follow-up shots.
- Nickel PTFE coating reduces friction and promotes smoother operation.
- Mil-Spec compatibility ensures easy installation in most AR-15 lower receivers.
- Affordable price point makes it a budget-friendly upgrade option.
Cons
- Light strike issues with some lower-quality ammunition.
- Not as consistent as higher-end aftermarket triggers.
Who Should Buy Sons of Liberty Gun Works Liberty Competition Trigger?
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Liberty Competition Trigger is perfect for shooters looking for an affordable and noticeable upgrade over a standard Mil-Spec trigger. It is ideal for recreational shooters, 3-gun competitors on a budget, or anyone looking to improve their AR-15’s trigger pull without breaking the bank.
This trigger might not be suitable for individuals who prioritize absolute reliability above all else, especially if they frequently use inexpensive or foreign-made ammunition. Also, those seeking the ultimate performance and consistency should consider investing in a higher-end trigger from brands like Geissele or LaRue.
A must-have modification would be to pair it with a high-quality bolt carrier group and ensure proper headspace to minimize light strike issues.
Conclusion on Sons of Liberty Gun Works Liberty Competition Trigger
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works Liberty Competition Trigger offers a worthwhile improvement over a standard Mil-Spec trigger at an attractive price point.
The value proposition is strong, as it delivers enhanced performance without a hefty price tag.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly trigger upgrade, but with the caveat that it might require using higher-quality ammunition for optimal reliability. Consider this trigger if you’re seeking a balance of performance and affordability, understanding its limitations with certain types of ammunition.
