FRT-15C3™
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The FRT-15C3™ is a two-stage, three-position forced reset trigger for the AR-15 that allows for rapid, controlled fire by using bolt carrier energy to mechanically reset the hammer. It is a drop-in assembly designed for compatibility with standard mil-spec forged AR-15 lower receivers. Operation requires understanding of geometric lock timing and precise installation, as outlined in my installation protocol.
What is the FRT-15C3™ used for?
The FRT-15C3™ enables controllable, rapid fire by utilizing bolt carrier momentum to force the hammer reset, bypassing the need for a manual trigger finger release. This creates a predictable, short reset path that allows for increased rate of fire with proper technique. The two-stage design and forced reset mechanism differentiate it from traditional semi-automatic or binary trigger functions.
How does the FRT-15C3™ compare to a binary trigger?
The FRT-15C3™ provides a faster potential cycle rate than a standard binary trigger like the Franklin Armory BFSIII, as it eliminates the physical release and re-pull of the second stage. The FRT system mechanically resets the hammer at approximately 0.8-1.2 milliseconds after bolt unlock, significantly faster than a shooter can react and release pressure. The Franklin binary is superior for deliberate, two-round burst control, while the FRT excels at achieving a consistent, rapid sequence governed by bolt carrier velocity.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The trigger assembly weighs 2.4 ounces (68 grams). The entire drop-in cassette dimensions are 2.87 inches in length, 1.02 inches in width, and 0.94 inches in height. The selector drum is 0.50 inches in diameter. These tight tolerances—machined to ±0.0005 inches in critical engagement surfaces—are covered in my guide on AR-15 Lower Receiver Machining Tolerance.
Who is this NOT for?
This trigger is not for standard home defense, hunting applications, or users who are uncomfortable with detailed mechanical timing protocols and potential legal scrutiny. It requires periodic lubrication every 500-800 rounds and has specific compatibility constraints. The mechanical operation and regulatory landscape are distinct from other triggers listed, like the FFT Hat.
What's in the box?
The kit contains the trigger assembly, two anti-walk pins, four anti-walk pin screws, one selector drum, two selector levers (one long, one short), two T10 Torx selector lever screws, and two T10 Torx wrenches. This includes all necessary for installation, apart from the required hammer and trigger pins. The anti-walk pin system prevents lateral movement under high-cycle operation.
Is the FRT-15C3™ worth it at $450?
At $450, the FRT-15C3™ is a high-value component for users seeking to explore the mechanical limits of the AR-15 platform through forced reset actuation. It offers a unique, non-electronic, mechanically actuated rapid-fire capability when installed correctly. For the user requiring this specific, advanced function, the precision machining and included tooling justify the cost compared to binary alternatives.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 2.4 oz — 0.6 oz lighter than the Franklin BFSIII cassette assembly.
- Includes two T10 Torx wrenches — eliminates the need for separate tool purchase.
- Selector drum machine tolerance of ±0.0005 inches — ensures consistent timing alignment.
- Two-stage design with 3.2 lb final stage break — provides a distinct tactile wall before forced reset.
Trade-offs
- Requires lubrication every 500-800 rounds — dry fire or high volume demands maintenance.
- Maximum two triggers per transaction — due to regulated component status.
- No compatibility with Geissele Maritime Bolt Catch — demands use of standard mil-spec catch.
Key attributes
| Trigger Type | Two-Stage (3-Position) Forced Reset |
| Compatibility | AR-15 (standard mil-spec forged lower) |
| Weight | 2.4 oz (68 g) |
| Break Force | 3.2 lbs (final stage) |
| Package Contents | Trigger assembly, pins, screws, selector, tools |
| Legal Status | Regulated component; check state laws prior to purchase |
Specifications
| type | Two-Stage (3-Position) Forced Reset Trigger |
| compatibility | AR-15 |
| pins_included | 2 x Anti-Walk Pins |
| pin_screws_included | 4 x Anti-Walk Pin Screws |
| selector_drum_included | 1 x Selector Drum |
| selector_levers_included | 2 x Selector Levers (1 Long & 1 Short) |
| selector_screws_included | 2 x T10 Torx Selector Lever Screws |
| tools_included | 2 x T10 Torx Wrenches |
Best for
- For the AR-15
What's in the box
- 1 x FRT-15C3™ Trigger
- 2 x Anti-Walk Pins
- 4 x Anti-Walk Pin Screws
- 1 x Selector Drum
- 2 x Selector Levers (1 Long & 1 Short)
- 2 x T10 Torx Selector Lever Screws
- 2 x T10 Torx Wrenches
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with the Geissele Maritime Bolt Catch?
- No. Direct mechanical interference occurs with the elongated latch of the Geissele Maritime Bolt Catch. The FRT-15C3 requires the standard mil-spec geometry for reliable bolt carrier clearance and timing. Refer to the detailed analysis here: <a href="/blog/frt-binary-trigger-geissele-maritime-bolt-catch-compatibility">FRT & Geissele Maritime Bolt Catch Analysis</a>.
- Does it fit a Polymer80 AR-15 lower?
- Fit is not guaranteed due to possible tolerance stacking. The trigger requires lower receiver dimensions within mil-spec forgings. Polymer80 lowers may exhibit dimensional variance exceeding the ±0.003-inch window for the selector drum bore. Always test-fit with manual function check prior to final pinning.
- How long does shipping take?
- All FRT-15C3 orders ship within 3-5 business days via UPS Ground. An adult signature is required at delivery. This is a regulated component; shipping and processing times exceed those for standard firearm accessories like magazines or tools.
- Does this work with a standard AR-15 hammer spring?
- Yes. The FRT-15C3 is designed to function with a standard mil-spec hammer spring providing approximately 24-26 lbs of force. Do not use reduced-power springs, as they may fail to reliably ignite the primer during the forced reset cycle.