Geissele Trigger Comparison

We like Geissele triggers quite a bit. With so many options, it can be time consuming to pick the trigger that is right for you. This reference guide may help in choosing the trigger that best suits your needs.

SSASSA-ESD-CSD-ESSPSD-SSP
StageTwo-StageTwo-StageTwo-StageTwo-StageSingle-StageSingle-Stage
Total Pull Weight4.25 – 4.75 lbs2.9 – 3.8 lbs4.25 – 4.75 lbs2.9 – 3.8 lbs 3.0 – 3.75 lbs3.0 – 3.75 lbs
Stage 1 Pull Weight2.75 – 3.0 lbs 2.0 – 2.5 lbs2.75 – 3.0 lbs2.0 – 2.5 lbsN/AN/A
Stage 2 Pull Weight1.5 – 1.75 lbs 0.9 – 1.3 lbs1.5 – 1.75 lbs0.9 – 1.3 lbsN/AN/A
Trigger BowM4 CurveM4 CurveFlatFlatM4 CurveFlat

Flat vs. Curved

Some prefer flat-faced triggers because they say the trigger pull feels lighter or they like the overall feel. Some prefer the standard M4 curve because it’s familiar and provides consistent finger placement. Ultimately, this boils down to what your preferences are; both are great options and will not make or break your shooting performance.

Single-Stage vs. Two-Stage

Preference is a common theme here, but for good reason. When referring to triggers, you should use what you are most confident and capable with. Some prefer single-stage triggers for one style of shooting, while they like two-stage for other types. Some swear by one or the other and won’t use anything else. Just know what you like, why you like it, and at the end of the day, be proficient with it.

SSA/SSA-E vs SD-C/SD-E

The four trigger types are either flat or curved, “combat’ or “enhanced”. The SSA (curved) is directly comparable to the SD-C (flat) in that both are considered “combat.” The SSA-E (curved) is directly comparable to the SD-E (flat) in that they are both “enhanced.”

What is “combat” vs “enhanced”?

“Combat”: Super Semi-Automatic (SSA) / Super Dynamic Combat (SD-C)

  • Rugged, non-adjustable combat trigger with a sear design that provides a wide margin of safety against unintentional discharges yet still gives the operator a sharp, repeatable trigger release.
  • Heavier trigger pull (4.25 – 4.75 lbs)
  • Longer, more pronounced break. Some say its like “breaking a carrot.”

“Enhanced”: Super Semi-Automatic Enhanced (SSA-E) / Super Dynamic Enhanced (SD-E)

  • Finely-tuned, non-adjustable two-stage trigger providing enhanced trigger control and weapon accuracy while maintaining the robustness and reliability of Geissele’s combat-proven two-stage trigger.
  • Lighter trigger pull (2.9 – 3.8 lbs)
  • Sharp, crisp break. Some say its like “breaking a candy cane.”