Trigger mechanism with selectable pull characteristics

What is this patent about?

’150 is related to the field of firearm trigger assemblies, specifically those designed to offer adjustable user interfaces. In traditional firearm design, a trigger’s feel—defined by its takeup, break, and reset—is fixed by the physical geometry of its internal components. Shooters often have to choose between a crisp, single-stage pull for speed or a predictable, two-stage pull for precision. Replacing these components typically requires significant disassembly, limiting the firearm's versatility in the field.

The underlying idea behind ’150 is to consolidate multiple, distinct trigger profiles into a single unit that can be toggled via an external control. Rather than relying on a single disconnector to manage the hammer release, the invention utilizes a multi-disconnector array where each individual component is tuned for a specific mechanical behavior. By using a selector to physically enable or lock out specific disconnectors, the system allows the shooter to mechanically reconfigure the trigger’s internal geometry and resistance levels instantly.

The claims of ’150 focus on a trigger mechanism comprising a hammer, a trigger element with a specific sear geometry, and a plurality of disconnector elements that are selectively engaged by a mode selector element. The independent claims highlight a trigger sear featuring an extension and hook portion, and specifically protect a configuration where the selector block can physically isolate one disconnector to provide a specific pull characteristic, such as a single-stage or two-stage feel, while disabling the others.

In practice, the invention works by employing a rotating selector block that features a series of machined slots and stoppers. When the user rotates the external lever, the block aligns a slot with the leg of the desired disconnector, allowing it to pivot freely and interact with the hammer. Simultaneously, the solid portions of the block press against the legs of the remaining disconnectors, pinning them in place so they cannot interfere with the active firing cycle. This mechanical lockout ensures that only the chosen pull characteristic is felt by the shooter.

A significant differentiation in this design is the inclusion of a quick trigger mechanism integrated into the selector. In certain modes, the selector block doesn't just enable a disconnector; it actually engages a tail on the trigger body to slightly lift it. This pre-stages the trigger by sliding the sear to the very edge of the hammer sear, effectively creating a hair-trigger effect with minimal travel. This differs from prior art by providing a hardware-level adjustment of sear engagement depth that is safely managed through the same selector used for mode switching.