Trigger Pull Gauge – Precision Adjustment for Your Trigger

Knowing the exact trigger pull weight of a set trigger is crucial in precision stalking for several reasons:

Accuracy: A consistent and appropriate trigger pull weight allows for precise shot placement, minimizing the risk of disturbing the aim during the trigger pull.

Safety: Understanding the trigger's sensitivity helps prevent accidental discharges, especially in high-adrenaline situations common in stalking hunts.

Customization: Being aware of the trigger pull weight enables hunters to adjust or select triggers that match their shooting style and the specific demands of precision stalking.

Manual Trigger Pull Gauge:

Utilizes a mechanical spring system to measure trigger pull weight.

Readings are obtained by observing a pointer or scale.

Generally more affordable and durable.

May require more skill to achieve consistent measurements.


Digital Trigger Pull Gauge:

Employs electronic sensors to measure trigger pull weight.

Provides digital readouts, often with additional features like averaging multiple pulls.

Offers higher precision and ease of use.

Typically more expensive and requires batteries.

The choice of the right trigger pull gauge depends on several factors:

Type of firearm: For firearms with heavier triggers, such as hunting rifles, a gauge with a broader measuring range is recommended. For competition firearms with lighter triggers, higher precision is required.

Frequency of use: If the tool will be used frequently, a digital gauge may offer greater convenience and faster readings.

Personal preferences: Some users prefer the simplicity and durability of manual gauges, while others value the precision and additional features of digital models.

At Carbin Store, our team is available to help you choose the tool that best suits your specific needs.

Properly adjusting the trigger pull weight improves accuracy, ensures safety, and allows for a more controlled shooting experience. Here are the recommended ranges according to the type of firearm and its primary use:

Firearm type | Main use | Recommended trigger pull weight
Bolt-action hunting rifle | Stalking, long-range shots, controlled precision | 800 g – 1,500 g
Semi-automatic hunting rifle | Driven hunts, waiting, fast shooting | 1,200 g – 2,000 g
Precision sport rifle | F-Class, PRS, long-range shooting | 300 g – 700 g
PCP air rifle | Field Target, precision shooting | 100 g – 500 g
Spring-piston air rifle | Plinking, general recreational use | 800 g – 1,500 g
Olympic air rifle (10 m) | ISSF Olympic shooting | 500 g (minimum regulation)
Olympic air pistol (10 m) | ISSF Olympic shooting | 500 g (minimum regulation)
Sport pistol (live fire) | IPSC, dynamic precision | 800 g – 1,200 g
Defensive or service pistol | Operational safety, professional use | 2,000 g – 3,500 g
Side-by-side shotgun (hunting) | Instinctive shooting, traditional hunting | 1,200 g – 2,000 g
Over-under shotgun (hunting) | Small game hunting, precision and control | 1,200 g – 2,300 g
Semi-automatic shotgun (hunting) | Migratory bird hunting, fast repetition | 1,500 g – 2,500 g

Technical recommendations:

For bolt-action rifles, a lighter trigger pull allows for more precision during long-range or stalking shots.

Semi-autos require slightly heavier pulls for safety and due to recoil mechanics.

Air rifles, especially in competition, need very precise measurements. High-resolution trigger gauges (digital or manual) are recommended.

In shotguns, trigger weight should be tailored to the firing system: side-by-sides are simpler, while over-unders and semi-autos benefit from finer tuning.