Are Forced Reset Triggers Legal in Nevada? State & Federal…

Are FRTs Legal in Nevada?

No, forced reset triggers (FRTs) are illegal to possess in Nevada. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) classifies FRTs as machine guns under federal law. Because federal law supersedes state law on this matter, ownership of an FRT is a federal felony in Nevada.

Defining the Forced Reset Trigger

A forced reset trigger, or FRT, is a firearm enhancement designed to increase the potential rate of fire of a semi-automatic rifle, most commonly the AR-15 platform. Its function is fundamentally different from that of a standard trigger. In a typical semi-automatic firearm, the shooter must pull the trigger to fire a round and then consciously release the trigger to allow it to reset before the next shot can be fired. The FRT mechanism changes this process.

The FRT uses the energy from the reciprocating bolt carrier group to forcibly reset the trigger. As the bolt returns to battery after firing a round, a component of the trigger mechanism is acted upon, pushing the trigger forward and back into its ready-to-fire position. This happens almost instantaneously. The shooter's finger remains on the trigger, and the forward pressure from the reset can cause the shooter to reflexively pull the trigger again, enabling a very rapid succession of shots. This mechanical action is the core of the legal controversy surrounding these devices.

It's critical to understand that an FRT is not a bump stock, which uses the rifle's recoil to 'bump' the trigger finger, nor is it the same as other trigger enhancements. For example, FRTs are mechanically and legally distinct from binary triggers, which fire one round on the pull and one round on the release of the trigger. An FRT still fires only one round per function of the trigger, but the definition of 'function' is where federal regulators have focused their attention.

The Federal Stance: ATF Classifies FRTs as Machine Guns

The primary legal barrier to owning an FRT in Nevada is federal law, not state statute. The ATF has definitively stated its position that triggers equipped with forced reset characteristics are machine guns. This classification is based on the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934 and the Gun Control Act (GCA) of 1968. These acts define a machine gun 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 ATF's interpretation hinges on the phrase 'single function of the trigger.' The agency argues that with an FRT, the shooter's single, continuous rearward pressure on the trigger initiates a firing cycle that continues until the pressure is removed or the ammunition is exhausted. They contend that the forced reset of the trigger is part of an automatic firing cycle initiated by that single function, rather than a series of individual, voluntary trigger pulls. This interpretation effectively reclassifies any firearm equipped with an FRT as a machine gun.

This ruling has been the subject of significant legal challenges from manufacturers and gun owners, who argue the ATF overstepped its authority. Proponents of FRTs maintain that since the trigger does technically move forward and must be pulled again for each shot, it does not meet the statutory definition of a machine gun. Despite ongoing litigation, the ATF's classification remains the standing federal law, and federal law enforcement agencies operate under this guidance. Therefore, possession of an FRT is treated as possession of an unregistered machine gun.

Nevada State Law: No Specific Mention of FRTs

A review of the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) reveals no specific law that names or explicitly bans 'forced reset triggers.' Nevada's firearm laws are generally considered permissive compared to many other states. The relevant statutes, primarily found in NRS Chapter 202, deal with machine guns, short-barreled rifles, and other NFA items, but they often defer to federal definitions.

For instance, NRS 202.275 addresses machine guns, but it primarily concerns their possession, sale, and transport, and it aligns with federal law. It doesn't create a separate, state-level definition that would contradict the ATF's ruling on FRTs. This means that while a Nevada state prosecutor might not find a state-specific statute under which to charge someone for possessing an FRT, the device is still illegal under federal law.

The principle of federal supremacy is key here. When a federal law and a state law conflict, the federal law prevails. In this case, there isn't even a conflict; there's a federal prohibition and state-level silence. For a Nevada resident, the ATF's classification is the only one that matters from a practical and legal standpoint. Federal agencies like the FBI and ATF can and do enforce federal firearm laws within Nevada's borders, regardless of what state law does or does not say.

Penalties and Legal Risks in Nevada

Possessing a forced reset trigger in Nevada carries severe legal consequences due to its federal classification. Under the National Firearms Act, the possession of an unregistered machine gun is a felony. A conviction can result in up to 10 years in federal prison and fines of up to $250,000.

These penalties are not theoretical. Federal prosecutors have pursued cases against individuals for possessing devices the ATF deems to be machine guns. Beyond prison time and fines, a felony conviction results in a lifetime prohibition on owning firearms and ammunition, the loss of voting rights, and significant barriers to employment and housing. The legal risks associated with owning an FRT are substantial and life-altering. Anyone considering acquiring or possessing one should understand they are risking a federal felony charge. It is always advisable to consult a qualified firearms attorney for specific legal advice.

Legal Alternatives for Firearm Enthusiasts

For gun owners in Nevada looking to improve their firearm's performance without violating federal law, there are numerous legal options available. The market for aftermarket triggers is vast and offers significant upgrades over standard, factory-installed components. High-performance drop-in triggers from reputable manufacturers can provide a lighter pull weight, a crisper break, and a shorter, more tactile reset.

These triggers can dramatically improve a shooter's accuracy and speed without altering the firearm's semi-automatic function in a way that would classify it as a machine gun. These upgrades are perfectly legal and are a popular choice for competition shooters, hunters, and defensive firearm owners. When looking for parts, you can browse a wide variety of legal firearm components to see what options are available.

Exploring these upgrades is a safe and effective way to enhance your shooting experience. Whether you are building a new rifle or upgrading an existing one, understanding the nuances of how to buy a gun and its components is essential for staying within the law. Staying informed by reading articles on our American Gun Trader blog can also help you keep up with the ever-changing landscape of firearm regulations.