The Ruger American rifle's popularity stems partly from its affordability and accuracy, but many shooters find the factory trigger a bit rough around the edges. A trigger job can significantly enhance the shooting experience, transforming the rifle from adequate to exceptional. This guide delves into adjusting the Ruger American trigger, providing a step-by-step process and essential safety precautions. Disclaimer: Improper adjustment can damage your firearm. Proceed with caution and consult a qualified gunsmith if you are uncomfortable with any of the steps.
Understanding Your Ruger American Trigger
Before you begin, familiarize yourself with your specific Ruger American model. Trigger mechanisms can vary slightly between different calibers and rifle configurations. Consult your owner's manual for detailed diagrams and specifications. Generally, the Ruger American trigger features a two-stage design. This means the trigger pull is broken into two distinct phases: the first stage involves taking up some slack, followed by a second, crisper break. The goal of the adjustment is to lighten the second-stage pull weight while maintaining a clean, consistent break.
What You'll Need:
- Appropriate sized screwdriver: This will depend on your specific Ruger American model. Check your owner's manual for details.
- A punch (optional): A small punch may be necessary to assist in removing trigger pins.
- Clean work surface: A well-lit and clutter-free area is crucial.
- Gunsmithing tools (optional): If you plan to do more involved trigger work, such as polishing components, specialized tools are recommended.
- Owner's Manual: This is your bible for your specific rifle. Always consult it!
Step-by-Step Trigger Adjustment Guide
Safety First! Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Begin by ensuring the rifle is unloaded and the action is open. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine well to confirm there are no cartridges present.
-
Disassembly: Carefully remove the action from the stock. This usually involves removing screws located at the front and rear of the receiver. Reference your owner's manual for precise disassembly instructions as the procedure may differ between models.
-
Locate the Trigger Adjustment Screw: Once the action is removed, you'll locate the trigger adjustment screw. It's usually situated on the trigger itself or on a nearby component. This is typically a small screw that will have an effect on the second stage of the trigger pull.
-
Adjusting the Overtravel Screw: This is usually an additional screw that is used to control the second stage travel of the trigger. Too much overtravel will provide a mushy feeling to the pull. Adjusting the overtravel screw can significantly improve the crispness.
-
Careful Adjustment: Using the appropriate screwdriver, make small, incremental adjustments to the trigger pull weight. A tiny turn can make a noticeable difference. Test the trigger pull after each adjustment.
-
Testing and Iteration: Carefully cycle the action and test the trigger pull several times. Remember that your goal is to reduce the pull weight, ideally without significantly increasing creep or adding any unwanted side effects. Iterate on the adjustments until you find the ideal setting.
-
Reassembly: Once you're satisfied with the trigger pull, carefully reassemble the rifle. Double-check to ensure all components are securely in place before testing function.
-
Functional Testing: With the action fully reassembled and the rifle unloaded, perform a thorough functional test. Cycle the action several times and dry fire the rifle to ensure the trigger functions properly.
Beyond Basic Adjustments
While adjusting the existing screws can significantly improve the Ruger American trigger, more advanced modifications require specialized skills and tools. This could involve:
- Trigger polishing: Smoothing out trigger parts to reduce friction and improve the feel.
- Replacing trigger components: Some aftermarket trigger parts can offer significant improvements in pull weight and feel. This is often best left to an experienced gunsmith.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you're uncomfortable with any part of the adjustment process, it's always best to seek professional help. A qualified gunsmith possesses the expertise and tools to perform trigger work safely and effectively. Improper adjustment can render your rifle unsafe, leading to malfunctions or potential injury. A professional will ensure that the trigger is adjusted properly and safely, within acceptable operating parameters.
This guide provides a basic understanding of adjusting the Ruger American trigger. However, always prioritize safety and consult your owner’s manual and a professional if needed. Remember that modifying your firearm involves risk, and improper adjustments can lead to malfunctions or injuries. Safety should always be your top priority.
