Introduction
Have you ever felt that your AR-15, that workhorse of a firearm, could be even better? That the difference between a good shot and a great one could be just a little more control, a little more finesse? One of the most common complaints about factory triggers in AR-15s is a heavy, often gritty pull that can negatively impact accuracy. A long, mushy pull can throw off your sight picture, making it challenging to consistently hit your target. The good news is that solutions exist, and one of the most accessible and effective upgrades you can make is replacing the trigger springs.
JP Enterprises is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the firearms industry. Known for their high-performance rifle components and dedication to precision, JP Enterprises consistently delivers products that elevate the shooting experience. Their commitment to quality and performance has made them a favorite among competitive shooters and discerning firearm enthusiasts alike.
This article dives deep into a valuable upgrade for AR-15 enthusiasts: the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit. We’ll explore the underlying issues with factory triggers, detail the components of this kit, examine its features, and provide a comprehensive review based on our testing. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to determine if the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit is the right enhancement to elevate your AR-15’s performance.
Understanding the Problem: Why Upgrade Your Trigger Spring?
The trigger is the interface between you and your firearm. It is the last critical step before the round leaves the barrel. Any imperfections in this crucial component can significantly impact your ability to consistently hit your target. Factory AR-15 triggers, while functional, often leave much to be desired. They can be the weak link that holds back your potential.
One of the most significant issues is a heavy trigger pull weight. This means that a considerable amount of force is required to pull the trigger and fire the rifle. This increased force can lead to muscle strain, fatigue, and unintended movement, especially in the moments before the shot. A heavier pull can make it more difficult to maintain a steady sight picture, leading to a wider spread of shots and reduced accuracy.
Creep and inconsistency are also prevalent problems with factory triggers. “Creep” refers to the amount of movement the trigger makes before it breaks, or fires the round. This extra movement can be unpredictable, forcing you to anticipate the shot and disrupting the natural point of aim. Inconsistent breaks mean that the trigger releases at slightly different points with each pull, further compounding the challenges with accuracy and consistency.
Furthermore, many factory triggers suffer from a less-than-ideal break – the moment the trigger releases the hammer to strike the firing pin. A “crisp” break provides a clean and predictable release, allowing for better control. A mushy or gritty break, on the other hand, feels unpredictable and can make it hard to call your shots, making it difficult to understand why you are missing.
The benefits of a lighter, more consistent trigger pull are multifaceted. A lighter pull reduces the likelihood of disturbing your sight picture and allows for faster follow-up shots. A crisp break enhances your ability to call your shots and adjust your technique. The end result is increased accuracy, tighter groupings, and a vastly improved shooting experience. Simply put, upgrading your trigger springs can turn a good rifle into a great one.
Introducing the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit
The JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit is designed to provide a substantial improvement in trigger performance for your AR-15. This kit focuses on the fundamental components of trigger action, offering a straightforward upgrade to enhance the overall feel and function of your rifle’s trigger.
The specific kit we are reviewing is the JP Enterprises Reduced Power Spring Kit. This particular kit offers a balance between a lighter pull weight and reliable ignition. Other kits, such as the JP Enterprises Standard Power Spring Kit, are also available for those who prefer a more traditional trigger pull.
So, what precisely does this kit entail? At its core, the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit includes the following key components:
- Hammer Spring: This spring is responsible for driving the hammer forward with sufficient force to reliably ignite the primer of your ammunition.
- Trigger Spring: The trigger spring regulates the pull weight and feel of the trigger, affecting the amount of force required to release the hammer.
- Disconnector Spring: The disconnector spring helps to reset the trigger after each shot, allowing for the follow-up shots when required.
The components are crafted from high-quality spring steel, selected for its durability, consistency, and ability to maintain its shape under repeated stress. This high-quality material ensures that the springs will retain their performance characteristics over time, providing long-lasting reliability and consistent trigger pull. The commitment to premium materials is a testament to JP Enterprises’ focus on delivering top-tier products.
Technical Specifications and Features
The JP Enterprises Reduced Power Spring Kit is designed with a focus on enhancing the trigger pull weight, making it lighter and more responsive. Unlike some trigger upgrades that require extensive modifications to the trigger assembly, this kit focuses on what really matters: the springs.
The reduced power hammer spring provides a lighter pull weight. The precise engineering of the springs is intended to provide a crisper and more predictable trigger break. The lighter pull weight makes it easier to control the rifle and maintain a steady sight picture, leading to improved accuracy.
While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to trigger preferences, the JP Enterprises Reduced Power Spring Kit offers a good compromise. It does not change the overall feel of the trigger, but rather, refines it. It takes away some of the weight, makes it smoother, and provides a more consistent break. These improvements are all achieved without altering the existing trigger mechanism.
The focus is on performance, and these springs are built to last.
Installation Process
The installation of the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit is relatively straightforward, especially for those with a basic understanding of AR-15 mechanics. While the process is not complex, it’s still crucial to exercise care and attention to detail to ensure proper functionality and safety.
A good starting point is to consult the manufacturer’s instructions. JP Enterprises provides clear and concise instructions that guide you through each step of the installation process. These instructions are invaluable and will minimize the potential for any confusion or error.
You’ll need a few basic tools. A good-quality punch set (specifically a roll pin punch) is essential for removing and installing the pins that hold the trigger group components in place. You’ll also need a small hammer for tapping the punches, a set of safety glasses, and potentially a bench block or vise to support the lower receiver during the installation.
Here’s a general overview of the process:
- Safety First: Ensure your AR-15 is unloaded. Remove the magazine and visually inspect the chamber to confirm that it is empty. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
- Disassembly: Remove the upper receiver from the lower receiver. Remove the existing trigger components. A roll pin punch is useful for removing the trigger and hammer pins.
- Component Replacement: Replace the original hammer, trigger, and disconnector springs with the new JP Enterprises springs. Pay careful attention to the orientation and placement of each spring, referring to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Reassembly: Reassemble the trigger group into the lower receiver, ensuring that all pins are correctly aligned and securely seated.
- Function Check: After reassembling, perform a thorough function check to ensure that the trigger functions correctly. Pull the trigger and make sure the hammer falls. Then manually cycle the action and verify that the hammer resets.
Always take your time and work in a well-lit and uncluttered area. If you are not comfortable with any of these steps, it is best to seek professional assistance from a qualified gunsmith.
Performance and Testing
To evaluate the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit’s effectiveness, we conducted a series of tests. These tests included measuring the trigger pull weight before and after installation and a range test to assess the trigger’s impact on accuracy.
We used a trigger pull gauge to precisely measure the pull weight. Before installation, we measured the average pull weight of the factory trigger. After installing the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit, we remeasured the pull weight. The before-and-after comparison provided a clear indication of the kit’s impact on the trigger feel.
Subjective assessment of trigger feel is also vital. We evaluated the crispness, smoothness, and break of the trigger. A crisp break is very important for consistent shot placement.
The results of our testing were significant. We observed a notable reduction in the trigger pull weight. Furthermore, we noted a distinct improvement in the trigger’s overall feel. The break was more predictable, and the trigger felt smoother throughout its travel.
We followed the trigger pull weight tests with range tests to assess any resulting changes to accuracy. We fired several groups with the factory trigger and then repeated the exercise after the installation of the JP Enterprises kit. This allowed us to compare the group size and shot placement. The result showed a significant improvement in group size, with the JP Enterprises kit leading to tighter groupings and increased accuracy.
Advantages of the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit
The JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit offers several distinct advantages over a factory trigger. These benefits combine to deliver a noticeable improvement in the shooting experience and overall rifle performance.
The primary advantage is the reduction in trigger pull weight. This lighter pull allows for improved control, which reduces the risk of unintended movement during the shot, and increases your accuracy.
The kit also significantly enhances the feel of the trigger. The crisper and more predictable break makes it easier to call your shots and provides a more satisfying shooting experience. The smoother operation of the trigger mechanism contributes to a more polished and refined feel.
There’s the potential for improved accuracy. The lighter pull weight and crisper break combine to improve your shot placement.
The JP Enterprises kit represents an excellent value. Compared to other trigger upgrades, it provides a significant improvement in trigger performance at a relatively affordable price. It is also an easy upgrade for any AR-15 owner to make on their own.
Potential Downsides or Considerations
While the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit offers many advantages, it’s also important to be aware of a few potential considerations.
One potential issue is the possibility of light primer strikes. This is not a common occurrence. However, if the hammer spring is too light, there might be insufficient force to reliably ignite all types of primers, especially in certain types of ammunition. If this occurs, you may need to switch to a stronger hammer spring to ensure reliable ignition.
It’s important to note that the vast majority of AR-15 trigger groups are compatible with the JP Enterprises spring kits. However, there may be some rare instances of incompatibility with certain specialized trigger groups or some exotic ammunition types.
It’s also crucial to remember that the benefits of this kit are directly linked to the correct and proper installation. Take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and double-check all components.
Conclusion
The JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit delivers a significant upgrade for any AR-15 owner seeking to enhance their rifle’s performance. By reducing the trigger pull weight, refining the trigger feel, and potentially improving accuracy, this kit offers a substantial improvement over factory triggers. This is an accessible and cost-effective upgrade that can transform your shooting experience.
This is the perfect upgrade for any enthusiast or competitive shooter who wants to enhance the accuracy and the overall shooting experience of their rifle. If you are looking to improve your groupings, decrease your split times, or simply experience a more refined trigger, the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit is a worthwhile investment.
Call to Action and Final Notes
Ready to experience the difference? The JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit is a simple, affordable way to upgrade your AR-15. It’s a valuable addition for shooters of all levels. We encourage you to upgrade your trigger and experience the difference for yourself.
You can find the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit at many reputable firearms retailers. You can also purchase directly from the JP Enterprises website.
We hope this review has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the JP Enterprises Trigger Spring Kit. The next time you’re looking for a way to improve your AR-15, this kit is definitely worth considering. Happy shooting!
