Understanding the Bond Arms Trigger
The Factory Trigger’s Characteristics
The standard trigger found on a Bond Arms handgun is generally a single-action design. This means that pulling the trigger performs a single function: releasing the hammer and firing the round. While reliable and simple in its design, the factory trigger often presents a few characteristics that shooters might find less than ideal.
One of the common critiques is the pull weight, which can feel heavy. This heavier pull can lead to involuntary movement of the gun during the trigger pull, negatively impacting accuracy. A heavy trigger also requires more effort to operate, which can be fatiguing during extended shooting sessions. Some shooters also experience a degree of creep – a feeling of slight movement before the trigger breaks and the gun fires. This creep can make it difficult to anticipate the shot and can hinder precision. The trigger’s reset, the point at which the trigger returns forward after firing, might also be a bit long, requiring the shooter to release the trigger a significant distance before it’s ready to fire again.
These characteristics, while not necessarily detrimental to the function of the firearm, can be improved to create a more pleasant and accurate shooting experience. The material and design of the Bond Arms trigger contribute to its feel. The standard components might involve steel and polymer, depending on the specific model.
Upgrading the trigger on your Bond Arms can provide substantial benefits. You can anticipate seeing increased accuracy, as a lighter and smoother trigger helps minimize unwanted movement. This will lead to tighter groupings on the target. Faster follow-up shots are also often achievable. With a shorter reset, you can get back on target more quickly after each shot. A better trigger can simply lead to more enjoyable shooting. By removing some of the negatives like trigger pull weight and creep, the overall shooting experience can become a more pleasant one.
Types of Bond Arms Trigger Improvements
Trigger Springs Replacement
One of the most common and accessible upgrades involves replacing the trigger springs. The factory springs are often designed to provide a balance of reliability and safety. However, with an appropriate replacement spring, you can significantly lighten the trigger pull weight.
The stock springs, typically found in the trigger assembly, may be replaced with lighter aftermarket springs. These springs offer a reduced pull weight, making the trigger easier to actuate. This allows for more precise shooting.
You can often find spring kits from various aftermarket companies, or even directly from Bond Arms itself. These kits generally include a reduced-power trigger spring, and sometimes hammer springs.
The installation process is typically straightforward, though it’s essential to be patient and careful. First, ensure the firearm is completely unloaded. Disassemble the trigger group according to your gun’s manual, being extremely cautious. Remove the old trigger spring, and replace it with the new, lighter spring. Reassemble the trigger assembly. You can often find helpful videos online demonstrating the process for your particular model.
Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific disassembly and reassembly procedures.
The advantages of a trigger spring upgrade are clear: you’ll generally notice a lighter, smoother trigger pull, leading to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots. The downside is that a lighter trigger spring can *sometimes*, if not properly installed or if the pull weight is reduced too much, slightly increase the risk of light primer strikes or other reliability issues, although this is rare. It’s crucial to test the firearm thoroughly after the upgrade.
Polishing the Trigger Components
Another effective method for improving the trigger feel is polishing the critical internal components. This process reduces friction, leading to a smoother and more consistent trigger pull.
The parts most commonly polished include the sear (the component that holds the hammer), the hammer itself, and the trigger face. Polishing these components removes any roughness or imperfections that can cause friction and hinder trigger movement. The result is a cleaner break and a reduced sensation of creep.
For polishing, you’ll need a few basic tools and materials: a polishing compound (such as Flitz or Semichrome), polishing cloths, cotton swabs, and possibly a small rotary tool (like a Dremel) with polishing attachments.
The process involves disassembling the trigger assembly (again, carefully and after ensuring the gun is unloaded). Then, gently apply the polishing compound to the components. Polish them using the cloth or polishing attachment, focusing on areas where the components make contact with each other. Make sure to clean the components thoroughly after polishing to remove any residue. Take care not to remove too much material. It’s a good practice to remove a small amount of material and check your work frequently. Always consult manufacturer’s guides for this.
Polishing offers a remarkable difference in trigger feel. It often eliminates creep and provides a noticeably smoother pull. The main downside is that it can be a slightly more involved process than a simple spring replacement and is best approached if you are confident in your skills.
Aftermarket Trigger Kits or Parts
While the Bond Arms platform doesn’t have a huge aftermarket for triggers, keep an eye out for any aftermarket kits or parts that may become available. These kits can offer a comprehensive approach to trigger improvements.
If available, these kits often include a replacement trigger (sometimes made from a different material or with a different shape), lighter springs, and other components designed to work together for optimal performance.
The components of the kit may include: a trigger, a sear, and/or a hammer.
The installation process varies depending on the kit. It generally involves disassembling the trigger group (again, after making sure the gun is unloaded). Then, you would remove the existing parts and install the new components according to the kit’s instructions.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to correctly install any parts in the kit.
The benefits of aftermarket kits can be significant. They offer a coordinated solution, often providing a more dramatic improvement in trigger feel than individual upgrades. However, availability can be limited.
Important Things to Consider Before Upgrading
Prioritizing Safety
Safety should be your top priority. Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Before starting any work, double-check that the firearm is unloaded. Remove the magazine, if applicable, and visually and physically inspect the chamber to ensure it’s empty. Point the firearm in a safe direction throughout the process.
Assessing Skill Level
Consider your skill level and experience with firearms maintenance. If you are not comfortable working on firearms, or if you lack the proper tools or knowledge, it might be best to have a qualified gunsmith perform the upgrade. A gunsmith has the expertise and tools to ensure the work is done correctly and safely.
Potential Impact on Functionality
Upgrading a trigger *can* potentially affect the firearm’s reliability. For instance, installing a trigger spring that is too light may cause light primer strikes, resulting in misfires. Ensure the upgraded trigger is tested after installation to ensure its proper function.
Legal Compliance
Be aware of any local regulations regarding trigger pull weight. Some jurisdictions have specific requirements for trigger pull weights, particularly for concealed carry handguns. Make sure your upgrade complies with all applicable laws.
Testing and Evaluating
After any Bond Arms trigger upgrade, thorough testing is essential. Here are some steps to take:
1. **Function Test:** With the gun unloaded, cycle the action several times, observing the trigger function. Ensure the trigger breaks cleanly, resets smoothly, and operates without binding.
2. **Live Fire Testing:** Once you’re confident in the dry fire function, test with live rounds. Load the firearm with live ammunition. Fire several rounds to verify function.
3. **Accuracy Assessment:** Assess your accuracy before and after the upgrade. Evaluate the consistency of your shot groups.
4. **Evaluate Trigger Feel:** Pay close attention to the trigger pull weight, creep, and reset. Does the trigger feel smoother and lighter? Is the reset shorter and more defined?
Conclusion
Upgrading the trigger on your Bond Arms can significantly enhance your shooting experience, improving accuracy, control, and enjoyment. By understanding the workings of the trigger, researching the available options, and prioritizing safety, you can take your Bond Arms to the next level. From trigger spring replacements to polishing components and using aftermarket kits, you can choose the upgrade that best suits your needs and skill level. Remember that patience, caution, and thorough testing are critical to a successful outcome. Always prioritize safety, consult with a qualified gunsmith if needed, and adhere to all local regulations. With a little effort, you can unlock the full potential of your Bond Arms and experience the satisfaction of a finely tuned firearm. Future developments in the market may offer further possibilities for improving trigger performance in the Bond Arms lineup.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and provides general guidance. Any modifications to firearms can be dangerous and may impact their performance and safety. Readers should always exercise extreme caution. Consult with qualified gunsmiths and follow all manufacturer’s instructions. The author and the publisher of this article are not responsible for any damage, injury, or legal consequences that may arise from the use of this information.
Resources & Further Reading
Bond Arms Official Website
Online Gun Forums (e.g., *GunsAmerica Forum*, *AR15.com*) – *search for Bond Arms and trigger modifications*.
Online Retailers (e.g., Brownells, MidwayUSA)
