First Impressions of Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit
The Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit promises a professional-grade, drop-in replacement for your AR-15’s factory trigger. As someone who’s spent years tinkering with and upgrading AR platforms, the appeal of a simple, reliable trigger upgrade is always present. This kit aims to provide that, utilizing high-quality, temperature-resistant materials in a Mil-Spec configuration, offered at a compelling price point.
I decided to try this kit because I was looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly trigger replacement for a recently acquired AR build. The original trigger was gritty and heavy, hindering my accuracy and overall shooting enjoyment. I hoped the Bushmaster kit would offer a noticeable improvement without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing, the kit appeared standard: trigger, hammer, disconnector, springs, and pins. The parts had a basic, utilitarian finish, consistent with Mil-Spec components. My initial thought was that it looked functional, but nothing special. It felt like a standard GI trigger, potentially a little rough around the edges.
I considered other trigger kits like the CMC Triggers Single Stage Drop-In and the LaRue Tactical MBT-2S, but their higher prices made me hesitant for this particular build. I ultimately chose the Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit based on its affordability and the Bushmaster brand name, hoping for reasonable quality at a lower cost. Initially, I was cautiously optimistic, hoping that it would offer a decent improvement over my stock trigger.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for accuracy testing. Installation was straightforward, though the notched trigger pin required a bit more effort than usual, as described.
The first few shots were… underwhelming. The trigger pull was heavy, gritty, and inconsistent, far from the crisp, clean break I was hoping for. There was noticeable creep before the break, making precise shots difficult.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and a couple of hundred rounds, the Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit hadn’t improved significantly. The grittiness persisted, and the heavy pull weight remained a constant issue. Cleaning and lubricating the trigger group didn’t noticeably affect the performance.
I inspected the trigger and hammer for any signs of excessive wear. There were no visible signs of damage or deformation, which speaks to the durability of the materials. It didn’t outperform my previous experience with stock triggers, it actually felt worse than some.
Breaking Down the Features of Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit
Specifications
The Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit consists of the following components:
- Trigger: Curved profile, standard Mil-Spec design.
- Hammer: Standard AR-15 hammer.
- Disconnector: Mil-Spec disconnector.
- Trigger Pin: Standard AR-15 trigger pin with notch.
- Hammer Pin: Standard AR-15 hammer pin.
- Springs: All necessary springs for installation.
The specifications indicate a trigger pull weight range of 5.5 – 9.5 lb. The parts are made of unspecified, temperature-resistant materials, housed in a Mil-Spec case. The Mil-Spec pin size ensures compatibility with most AR-15 lowers, and the ambidextrous design means it works for both right- and left-handed shooters. These specifications are essential because they ensure a consistent feel from trigger to trigger and compatibility across many AR-15 platforms.
Performance & Functionality
The Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit’s performance leaves much to be desired. The heavy, gritty trigger pull significantly hinders accuracy and shooting enjoyment. The inconsistent break makes it difficult to achieve precise shots, especially during rapid fire.
The primary weakness is the lack of smoothness and the heavy trigger pull. A significant improvement in trigger feel and pull weight is needed. It doesn’t meet expectations for even a basic trigger upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is standard Mil-Spec, nothing fancy or innovative. The materials used seem durable, but the overall feel lacks refinement. It’s a no-frills design that focuses on functionality over ergonomics.
The build quality is acceptable, but the trigger feels rough and unpolished. There isn’t a significant learning curve, as it’s a standard AR-15 trigger.
Durability & Maintenance
The kit appears to be durable and should last a reasonable amount of time. The simple design makes maintenance easy, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Replacing individual components, such as the trigger or hammer, is also straightforward if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit doesn’t include any additional accessories beyond the necessary components for installation. The trigger and hammer can be replaced with aftermarket options for customization. It is compatible with most standard AR-15 trigger pins and springs. The compatibility with standard AR-15 parts allows for a high degree of customization.
Pros and Cons of Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget builds.
- Durable materials should withstand regular use.
- Easy installation, suitable for beginners.
- Compatible with most AR-15 platforms.
- Simple, no-frills design for reliable function.
Cons
- Heavy and gritty trigger pull negatively impacts accuracy.
- Inconsistent trigger break makes precise shooting difficult.
- Lacks the smoothness and refinement of higher-quality triggers.
Who Should Buy Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit?
The Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit is perfect for budget-conscious builders looking for a basic, functional trigger. It is also suitable for those who prioritize durability and reliability over refined trigger performance.
Those seeking a crisp, clean trigger pull for improved accuracy should skip this product. Competitive shooters or anyone prioritizing a smooth trigger should consider higher-end options. A trigger spring kit or trigger polishing kit might improve the trigger feel, but it’s unlikely to transform it into a high-performance trigger.
Conclusion on Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit
The Bushmaster AR15 Mil-Spec Trigger Kit is a budget-friendly option for those seeking a basic trigger replacement. However, the heavy, gritty trigger pull significantly impacts shooting enjoyment and accuracy. The low price point might be attractive, but the performance is underwhelming.
The value proposition is questionable, as the minimal cost savings don’t outweigh the subpar performance. I would personally not recommend this trigger kit. There are better options available, even at slightly higher price points, that offer a significantly improved shooting experience. If you’re serious about your AR-15’s performance, invest in a better trigger kit.