Rare Breed FRT Triggers
FRT-15C3™ Two-Stage (3-Position) Forced Reset Trigger for the AR-15
Rare Breed FRT Triggers
Rare Breed FRT Triggers
FRT-RD3™ Forced Reset Trigger for the HK MP5, MP5K, SP5 & SP5K
Rare Breed FRT Triggers
Rare Breed FRT Triggers
Rare Breed FRT Triggers
Rare Breed FRT Triggers
A Rare Breed forced reset trigger is a drop-in, semi-automatic trigger that uses the energy of the bolt carrier group to push the trigger back to its starting position after every round — so the trigger resets faster than your finger ever could, while still firing one round for each pull. It is not full-auto and it is not a binary; it is a faster way to run a semi-automatic AR-15. This page brings together the complete Rare Breed FRT-15 family along with the HK-pattern models built on the same principle. Browse the full Rare Breed FRT triggers range below.
The FRT-15 family, model by model
Rare Breed has refined the FRT-15 across several generations, and the differences come down to the locking bar, the trigger face, and the platform it is cut for.
| Model | Built for | Trigger face | What sets it apart |
|---|---|---|---|
| FRT-15 | AR-15 (.223/5.56, .300 BLK) | Curved | The original drop-in FRT |
| FRT-15 E3 | AR-15 | Enhanced | E3 internals over the original |
| FRT-15L2 | AR-15 | Flat | Revised locking-bar generation |
| FRT-15L3 | AR-15 | Flat | Current generation, quickest reset |
| FRT-15C3 | AR-15 | Two-stage, 3-position | A true two-stage feel with a 3-position selector |
| FRT-MR3 | HK MR223 / MR556 | — | For HK-pattern rifles, no carrier swap |
| FRT-RD3 | HK MP5, MP5K, SP5 | — | For roller-delayed platforms |
If you are buying your first one, most AR-15 shooters land on the FRT-15L3 for the latest locking bar, or the FRT-15C3 if you want that two-stage break. HK owners go straight to the FRT-MR3 or, for the MP5/SP5 family, the FRT-RD3.
What it takes to run one reliably
An FRT asks a little more of the rifle around it than a standard trigger. Plan on a full-auto-profile bolt carrier group and a heavier buffer — an H2 or H3 is the usual recommendation — so the carrier returns with enough authority for a clean reset. A worn or out-of-spec locking bar is the most common cause of inconsistent reset, which is why we keep FRT trigger parts and upgrade kits on hand. Everything here drops in with standard punches; no permanent modification to the lower is required.
Are Rare Breed triggers legal to own?
Forced reset triggers fire one round per function of the trigger, which is the legal definition of semi-automatic. After the 2025 federal settlement in the long-running Rare Breed Triggers case, the FRTs covered by that agreement are not classified as machine guns under federal law. State law is a separate question — several states restrict or ban forced reset devices — so confirm the rules where you live before you order. The ATF publishes the current federal position. When in doubt, check your state and local laws first.
Frequently asked questions
Can I legally buy a Rare Breed FRT? In most states, yes — they are semi-automatic. A number of states restrict them, so check your state and local law before ordering.
What is the difference between the FRT-15L3 and the C3? The L3 is a single-stage flat FRT built around the newest locking bar; the C3 is a two-stage, three-position design with a different trigger feel.
Will an FRT fit my AR-15? It is made for mil-spec AR-15 lowers in .223/5.56 and .300 BLK, run with an H2 or H3 buffer and a full-auto-profile BCG.
Do I need a gunsmith? No. Rare Breed FRTs are drop-in and reversible — no machining, no permanent changes.
Is Rare Breed still making triggers? Yes. The FRT-15 line remains in production and available, including through retailers like our forced reset triggers store.