Are Binary Triggers Legal in Alaska? State & Federal Law

Are Binary Triggers Legal in Alaska?

Yes, binary triggers are legal to own, purchase, and install in Alaska. There are no specific state laws prohibiting these devices. Federally, the ATF does not classify them as machine guns because they fire only one round per function of the trigger (once on pull, once on release).

Understanding Alaska's Permissive Firearms Landscape

Alaska has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most gun-friendly states in the nation. This culture is codified in its laws, starting with the state constitution. Article I, Section 19 explicitly protects the individual right to keep and bear arms, a provision that courts have interpreted broadly. Unlike many other states, Alaska does not have a state-level list of banned firearms or accessories, nor does it require registration or permits to purchase most firearms. This legal framework creates a permissive environment for firearm accessories that might be heavily restricted elsewhere.

The state's approach is generally to defer to federal law on matters regulated by the National Firearms Act (NFA), such as suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and machine guns. For accessories that fall outside the NFA's strict definitions, Alaska law is largely silent. This is the critical context for understanding the legality of devices like binary triggers. If an accessory is not federally classified as a machine gun, it's highly unlikely to face any specific prohibition under current Alaska statutes.

Technical Breakdown: How a Binary Trigger Functions

To grasp the legal arguments, you first have to understand the mechanics. A binary trigger is a firearm modification that alters the trigger's function. In a standard semi-automatic firearm, one round is fired when the trigger is pulled, and the trigger must be released and reset before another round can be fired. A binary trigger changes this sequence.

With a binary trigger installed, the firearm discharges one round when the trigger is pulled rearward. It then discharges a second, separate round when the trigger is released and moves forward. It's crucial to note that these are two distinct actions, or "functions," of the trigger. The shooter can also override the release shot by holding the trigger back while using the selector switch to change modes. This two-function operation is the entire basis for its current legal status and what separates it from a machine gun, which fires continuously with a single pull and hold of the trigger. Many popular platforms, including AR-15s and even some PCCs like the SIG Sauer MPX, have binary trigger options available.

The Federal Position: Why the ATF Doesn't Classify Binaries as Machine Guns

Federal law, specifically the National Firearms Act of 1934 and the Gun Control Act of 1968, defines a "machinegun" as any weapon which shoots, is designed to shoot, or can be readily restored to shoot, automatically more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. The key phrase here is "a single function of the trigger."

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has repeatedly examined binary trigger designs from various manufacturers. In opinion letters, the agency has consistently found that because these devices fire only one round upon the pull function and one round upon the release function, they do not meet the legal definition of a machine gun. The pull and the release are considered two separate functions. Therefore, as of this writing, binary triggers are not regulated under the NFA and can be bought and sold like any other standard firearm accessory at the federal level.

Reviewing Alaska State Law

Turning to Alaska's specific statutes, the legal picture is straightforward. There is no state law in Alaska that explicitly mentions, regulates, or prohibits binary triggers. The state's criminal code addresses prohibited weapons, but the definitions primarily focus on things like explosive devices or firearms with removed serial numbers. Alaska's definition of a machine gun (Alaska Statute 11.81.900(a)(34)) mirrors the federal definition, focusing on weapons that fire more than one shot automatically by a single function of the trigger.

Because Alaska law aligns with the federal definition, and the ATF has determined binary triggers do not meet that definition, they are not considered machine guns under state law. This lack of a specific prohibition means that owning, installing, and using a firearm equipped with a binary trigger is legal within the state for any resident who is legally allowed to possess a firearm. The general process for acquiring the firearm itself still applies, and our guide on how to buy a gun provides a solid overview of those steps.

Critical Distinction: Binary Triggers vs. Forced Reset Triggers (FRTs)

It is absolutely vital for gun owners to understand the difference between a binary trigger and a forced reset trigger (FRT). While both increase the potential rate of fire, they operate on different principles and have vastly different legal statuses. An FRT uses the energy from the reciprocating bolt carrier group to forcibly reset the trigger, allowing for extremely rapid follow-up shots. You are still technically pulling the trigger for each shot, but the reset is nearly instantaneous.

The ATF has taken a much harder line on FRTs. In March 2022, the agency declared that some popular FRT designs, such as those from Rare Breed Triggers, are in fact machine guns. Their reasoning is that the forced reset mechanism means the shooter is not required to release the trigger between shots, and the device fires more than one shot with a "single, continuous pull of the trigger." This classification makes possessing an FRT a potential felony. For Alaskans, this means that while binary triggers are fine, possessing an FRT is not. You can find more details on the specific legal situation in our guide to forced reset trigger legality in Alaska.

Practical Advice for Alaskan Owners

For those in Alaska interested in a binary trigger, the process is simple. They can be purchased online or from local dealers and shipped directly to your home without the need for an FFL transfer, as they are considered an accessory, not a firearm. Installation is typically a drop-in procedure for those familiar with the AR-15 fire control group, but professional installation by a gunsmith is always an option.

It's worth noting that while legal, these devices require practice to master safely and effectively. The rhythm of firing on both pull and release is different from standard semi-automatic fire. Responsible owners should dedicate time at the range to become proficient. Additionally, if you ever decide to sell a firearm with a binary trigger installed, it's important to be transparent about the modification. This can affect the firearm's price, so understanding how to determine true gun value is beneficial. You can find many firearms with various modifications across the gun listings on our site.

Finally, while state laws are permissive, always be aware of the rules of the specific range or property where you are shooting. Some private ranges may have their own policies regarding rapid-fire devices. Laws can also change over time. While the legal status of binary triggers seems stable in Alaska, it differs greatly from state to state. For example, the rules for binary trigger legality in South Dakota are similar, but other states have outright bans.