AR Lower-Receiver Build: Trigger Guard Installation

by
posted on October 20, 2015
dsc_0240.jpg
The necessary parts and tools are listed below:

Parts
Trigger Guard
Trigger Guard Roll Pin

Tools
Small hammer. (Plastic and brass-tipped preferred.)
4S Pin-holding starter punch (optional)
1/8-inch Roll-pin punch 1/8 inch pin punch (optional)
Bench block

The front of the trigger guard should have a spring-loaded detent already installed. Compress this and insert the trigger guard into the front, making sure the detent is on the same side as the hole. Put the receiver on a bench block to support it. A block of wood will work.

Alas, more dreaded roll-pin manipulation!
Use the roll pin-holding starter punch to start the roll pin, or hold it with needle nose pliers as you start it. It’s usually a tight fit and it’s easy to damage the end of the roll pin. It is easier to use a slave pin as you gently start the pin through the receiver and into the trigger guard. Carefully use the roll pin punch and hammer to drive the roll pin into the receiver. Check to see it is of equal depth on both sides.

Function Check
Depress the detent on trigger guard and make sure the trigger guard will pivot open. (The Blackhawk model I used had a second roll pin instead of a detent.)

An ideal choice for a hunting rifle, the Blackhawk Oversized Trigger Guard offers easy access for gloved fingers.
Unparsimonious Potential Upgrade
Despite its straight design and narrow opening the standard trigger guard will suffice under most conditions. But, when you consider my rifle is designed with hunting mind, the addition of Blackhawk’s AR-15 Oversized Trigger guard just makes better sense because it allows quicker access to the trigger with gloved hands.

The next entry will cover installing the buttstock.

Latest

New Large Format Pistols for 2024
New Large Format Pistols for 2024

New Large Format Pistols for 2024

The power and accuracy of a large format pistol are hard to argue with.

First Look: ALPS Outdoor Z Talon Holster

Designed for use with a day pack or other outdoor gear.

.22LR For Self-Defense?

Only in the last few years has the .22LR cartridge been deemed as even mildly acceptable for defensive purposes.

First Look: HK First Response Tool

Produced by a collaboration with Hogue Knives. 

It’s All About the Student

A shooting range is not a stage, nor is it a podium.

First Look: Breda Competition Shotguns

Two new models designed for the fast-paced world of 3-gun.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.