In the world of firearm innovation, few products have made as much noise as the Rare Breed Trigger. Marketed as a force reset trigger (FRT), the Rare Breed FRT-15 has captured the attention of gun enthusiasts and competitors for its unmatched firing speed and sleek engineering. But with this innovation comes scrutiny — particularly from federal authorities. As interest grows and Rare Breed triggers for sale continue to pop up online, it’s important to understand the appeal, the mechanics, and the legal climate surrounding this controversial device.
What Is the Rare Breed Trigger?
The Rare Breed FRT-15 is a patented force reset trigger designed for AR-15 style rifles. It uses the kinetic energy of the bolt carrier group to forcibly reset the trigger after each round is fired. This rare breed trigger allows the shooter to pull the trigger again almost instantly, drastically increasing the potential rate of fire — all while still operating as a semi-automatic firearm, at least by design.
Unlike fully automatic systems, the Rare Breed trigger still requires one trigger pull per shot, which is the critical legal distinction the manufacturer has used to argue its compliance with U.S. firearms law.
Why Shooters Love the Rare Breed Trigger
The Rare Breed FRT-15 has earned a reputation for both performance and reliability. Here’s why it stands out:
-
Blazing Fast Reset: The forced reset mechanism enables near full-auto rates of fire while remaining (arguably) semi-auto.
-
Drop-In Design: It’s built to fit most mil-spec AR-15 lowers, making it accessible to DIY builders and experienced gun owners alike.
-
Durability: Crafted with precision-machined stainless steel, the trigger is built to withstand high-volume shooting.
Shooters have praised the Rare Breed trigger for giving them the thrill and efficiency of rapid fire without the cost or regulation of NFA-classified machine guns.
The Legal Landscape
Despite Rare Breed’s insistence that their trigger is legal, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has taken a very different view. In 2021, the ATF issued a cease and desist letter, claiming the trigger meets the definition of a machine gun under federal law.
As a result:
-
Sales have been restricted or stopped in many areas.
-
The company has faced lawsuits and federal enforcement actions.
-
Buyers may risk seizure or legal consequences, depending on jurisdiction.
Final Thoughts
The Rare Breed Trigger is a remarkable example of mechanical innovation in firearms — but it exists in a highly controversial and uncertain legal zone. If you’re considering a Rare Breed trigger for sale, proceed with extreme caution. Stay updated on federal and state regulations, consult legal experts if needed, and understand the risks involved.