Semi-Auto and Pump-Action Long Gun Triggers

by
posted on March 28, 2017
longgun.jpg
Nearly all contemporary semi-automatic and pump-action sporting rifles have an underride trigger with an internal hammer cocked by rearward motion of the bolt or bolt carrier. A notch or shelf on the hammer is engaged by the sear to retain it in the cocked condition. Pulling the trigger disengages the sear from the hammer, allowing it to fly forward to hit the firing pin and fire the gun.

Most fire-control assemblies for semi-automatic and pump-action rifles are held in the receiver by pins, screws or levers. The trigger is not readily adjustable. 

Typically, semi-automatic and pump-action shotguns also have an internal hammer cocked by the rearward motion of the bolt or bolt carrier. A non-adjustable underride trigger system pinned inside the receiver retains the hammer in the cocked position by sear engagement on a notch in the hammer. Pulling the trigger disengages the sear from the hammer, allowing it to fly forward to strike the firing pin.

In addition to fire control, the trigger mechanisms for semi-automatic and pump-action shotguns must also perform several functions related to shotshell feeding. When the gun is fired and the bolt and bolt carrier move rearward, the fire-control system pivots the shell carrier downward and depresses teh shell latch on the magazine tube to release the next shell onto the shell carrier. On the bolt's return trip forward, the shell carrier pivots upward, positioning a fresh shell directly in front of the chamber. As the bolt goes into battery, the fresh shell is chambered and the action's locking block or locking lugs engage the receiver or barrel extension.

An important part of the fire-control mechanism of any semi-automatic or pump-action firearm is the disconnector. After a shot has been fired, the shooter's finger may still be on the trigger as the action cycles to cock the hammer or firing pin. The disconnector prevents the cocked hammer or firing pin from falling unless the trigger is first released, then pressed again.

The disconnector can be a separate part, or it may be designed into the trigger bar, sear or other components of the fire-control system.

Latest

Sinkbox
Sinkbox

Throwback Thursday: "Sinkbox" Waterfowling

If you’re a modern-day waterfowler reading this NRA Family story hoping to learn a new hunting technique that will help you increase your bag of ducks and geese, we're afraid you’re a bit late.

NRA Family Entertainment: Dashing through the Elk in Utah

Oh what fun it is to ride where the herds of wild elk play ...

First Impressions: Go Med Kits' First Aid & Care Essentials for Hunters

First aid in the field is just a little different for hunters ... don't be caught out without a hunting-specific first aid kit!

Video Review: Ruger American Gen II Standard Bolt-Action Rifle

It doesn't just look cool, it is cool. Here are the rest of the reasons it's our NRA Gun of the Week!

Attention, NRA Clubs: Check Out Our New Club Leadership & Development Online Course

NRA Clubs & Associations is pleased to offer this up-to-date online learning opportunity for current and upcoming club leadership.

New Calibers & Camo, Who's This? Savage Model 334!

It's the same Savage 334 you know and love, but with more calibers and camouflage options!

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.