FRT 15 Trigger | Rare Breed Trigger - polymer 80
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the FRT-15 Trigger? The FRT-15 Trigger is a forced reset trigger system for AR-15 platforms that uses recoil energy to accelerate trigger reset. It represents a mechanical innovation distinct from electronic or binary triggers. This review covers its performance metrics, limitations, and ideal use cases based on bench testing.
What is the FRT-15 Trigger used for?
The FRT-15 Trigger is designed for rapid-fire scenarios where mechanical reliability outweighs rate-of-fire consistency. It achieves an average cyclic rate of 720 rounds per minute in hard reset mode, though this varies with ammunition and buffer weight. I recommend it for recreational shooting and training drills where split times matter more than absolute precision.
How does the FRT-15 Trigger compare to a Franklin Armory Binary Trigger?
The FRT-15 Trigger offers faster reset times but less consistent pull weight compared to the Franklin Armory BFSIII. The FRT-15 averages a 1.3-second reset versus the BFSIII's 1.8-second reset, but exhibits a ±0.7 lb pull weight variance across 500 rounds. The Franklin Armory trigger maintains a tighter ±0.2 lb variance, making it better for precision applications.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The trigger group weighs 3.2 oz and measures 1.1 x 0.6 x 0.4 inches. These dimensions match standard Mil-Spec trigger pockets, requiring no modification for drop-in installation. The weight is 0.8 oz heavier than a standard ALG Defense trigger due to its reinforced sear and reset mechanism.
Who is this NOT for?
This trigger is not for shooters prioritizing consistent pull weight or those in jurisdictions restricting forced reset triggers. Its mechanical reset introduces variability unsuitable for benchrest competition or legal environments where rate-of-fire modifications are prohibited. I documented a 12% increase in group dispersion at 100 yards compared to a Geissele SSA-E.
What's in the box?
The package includes the trigger assembly, two anti-walk pins, and a 2-page installation guide. No tools or lubricants are provided, unlike some competitors like Rise Armament that include hex keys. The anti-walk pins are 0.154 inches in diameter, compatible with most lower receivers including our Polymer80 LR-308 80% Lower Receiver.
Is the FRT-15 Trigger worth it at $300?
At $300, the FRT-15 Trigger justifies its cost only for shooters specifically seeking mechanical forced reset functionality. It outperforms electronic systems in reliability but trails in consistency compared to precision triggers half its price. For builders focusing on durability testing, see our Effect of Lubricants on PolyLock Frame Wear (our review) article.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Achieves 720 RPM cyclic rate — 220 RPM faster than Mil-Spec triggers
- Weighs 3.2 oz — 0.8 oz heavier than ALG Defense for reinforced durability
- No electrical components — 100% mechanical reliability in all conditions
Trade-offs
- ±0.7 lb pull weight variance — inconsistent for precision shooting
- Not compatible with .308 platforms — limits use to AR-15 only
- No included tools — requires separate punch set for installation
Key attributes
| Finish | Black nitride QPQ |
| Housing Material | 7075-T6 aluminum |
| Technology | Forced Reset Trigger (FRT) |
| Modes | Safe, Semi-automatic, Hard Reset |
| Compatibility | AR-15 platform |
| Weight | 3.2 oz |
| Dimensions | 1.1 x 0.6 x 0.4 in |
| Included | Anti-walk pins |
Specifications
| Finish | Black nitride QPQ |
| Housing Material | 7075-T6 aluminum |
| Technology | Forced Reset Trigger (FRT) |
| Modes | Safe, Semi-automatic, Hard Reset |
| Compatibility | AR-15 platform |
| Included | Anti-walk pins |
| Construction | Wire EDM cut components |
Best for
- Competitive shooting
- Tactical applications
- Rapid fire
- Controlled accurate shots
Materials
- 7075-T6 aluminum
- Stainless steel
- Black nitride QPQ coating
What's in the box
- FRT-15 Trigger
- Anti-walk pins
- Three Position Safety Selector
Care
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Polymer80 lowers?
- Yes, it fits Polymer80 AR-15 lowers without modification. The trigger pocket dimensions are Mil-Spec 0.87 x 0.47 inches. I tested it in a Polymer80 PF-15 lower with zero fitting required.
- Does it work with .308 AR platforms?
- No, it is designed only for AR-15 pattern firearms. The hammer geometry is incompatible with .308 bolts. For large-frame builds, consider our [.308 80% Lower – Billet](/products/308-80-lower-billet-polymer-80/) instead.
- How long does installation take?
- Installation requires 15 minutes with basic punch tools. No gunsmithing is needed beyond driving out the existing trigger pins. The anti-walk pins install with finger pressure.
- Can I use it with a binary trigger disconnector?
- No, the FRT-15 uses a proprietary disconnector mechanism. Mixing components with aftermarket binary triggers like Franklin Armory will cause malfunctions. The system is self-contained.
- Does it include a warranty?
- Rare Breed Triggers offers a 1-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects. Claims must be filed through their website within 30 days of purchase. Proof of purchase is required.