Initially introduced in 2014 as the Meticulously Built Trigger (MBT) by LaRue Tactical, the two-stage MBT was revised in 2019 with a flat-bow variant. This gives the end-user the functionality of the MBT’s crisp break, with the added comfort of a flat-faced trigger.
Made from a single tool-grade S7 steel billet plate, the MBT-2S AR-15 trigger offers an improvement over conventional triggers that are made from cast or injection molds. Machined by CNC, the MBT and hammer pins offer a polished and crisp design free of seams or imperfections.
The MBT initially came pre-assembled in two components, and packaged in a “tuna can” style container with a clear lid and molded foam. By 2020, the MBT packaging was changed to a molded plastic insert that keeps the hammer and trigger housing components in place, from factory to buyer.
The pull weight of the MBT is approx. 4lb, and between 5.3 to 5.8oz (varies from each trigger based on spring manufacture), but does come with an optional “heavy” 6lb trigger spring for specific applications (such as for law enforcement or private security). Additionally, the disconnector for the MBT is pinned to provide improved tactile feel and a crisp break at the sear wall.
The MBT is only available in black anodization.
Product Evaluation Scores:
- Cost – Good (4/5): With its current list price of $89 (down from $118), the MBT is on its second iteration/generation and offers a flat bow (featured) and curved option. Both are made from robust S7 steel frequently used in the manufacturing of impact-raged tool parts. It offers consistent performance over cassette-type drop-in triggers in that it follows the original design of the Colt trigger design. In comparison, comparable market alternatives would be the 2-Stage Trigger ($170) by Geissele, or the Fire Control Kit ($99.95) from JP Enterprises. Other branded triggers are available, such as the Advanced Combat Trigger ($82.95) by Geissele/ALG Defense or the Advanced MIL-SPEC Trigger ($59.50) by Centurion Arms, but these use materials that are not as finished as the MBT (ergo the cost difference). Regardless, with the recent price decrease by LaRue on its MBT its current cost places the trigger at a good price point in comparison to its competitors as well as the overall market.
- Comfort – Good (4/5): The MBT was designed to have a wide trigger bow with a cornered-style edging along the bow vice the typical rolled/rounded ones. This gave the trigger a good sharp, contrasting feel against the finger that was more definitive than other traditional triggers. During cycling, more precise control was given to the MBT and it translated into a more tactile control of the firing mechanism than other triggers. Reset could also be well felt/heard that denoted a crisp mechanical function of the MBT with no slop or play. Installation went easily and appropriately in multiple platforms that identify it as consistent to the original AR platform.
- Durability – Good (4/5): Made from S7 steel the MBT was made from a higher quality steel than other common market alternatives in triggers, with a manufacturing process that yields a higher density material with good properties against heat and impact. Over the course of six months in continual use, the components of the MBT (i.e. springs, pins, hammer) did not wear excessively nor show any evidence of metal fatigue. Excess carbon buildup was noted as the result of various ammo types and running suppressed, but did not impinge the trigger’s reliability or durability in any context.
- Functionality – Average (3/5): The MBT came from LaRue pre-greased and ready for installation, which went easily and without any significant issues. Instructional videos on the installation of any A2 style trigger (such as the MBT) are readily found on YouTube, and the MBT did come with LaRue’s own instructions on installation. Once installed and properly given a functions check, it was noted during range time the MBT’s flat-faced trigger had a slightly longer length-of-pull than the traditional A2/M4 curved “bow” style triggers. This is almost certainly due to the different dimensions in the trigger itself—so the distance was extremely minimal. Using a digital trigger scale, a series of 10 tests were conducted and yielded a pull weight of between 5lb 0.7oz, and 3lb 8.5oz. (averaging a trigger pull of 4.46lb) which was appropriately within the range of stated performance by LaRue. A confirmation series of tests were completed at the end of the field review period to check for weakening or drop in pull weight—but results were consistent with those at the beginning. Under pressure and over the course of trial, the MBT held no perceivable trigger creep, with a crisp break in the mechanical sear that resulted in consistent performance. The mechanical action of the trigger group was also consistent and smooth, and retained the same appropriate measure of crispness throughout.
- Weight – Excellent (5/5): Once removed from the stylized shipping container, the MBT (and associated pins/springs) physically weighed in at 2.4 ounces. This equates to a trigger group that was neither unbalancing nor excessively heavy inside the rifle. The weight reflects the choice of S7 steel in the greater product, and its influence into the product’s long-term service life. In contrast, the 2-Stage Trigger (6.4 ounces) by Geissele, or the Fire Control Kit (6.8 ounces) from JP Enterprises, the Advanced Combat Trigger (6.0 ounces) by Geissele/ALG Defense or the Advanced MIL-SPEC Trigger (8.0 ounces) by Centurion Arms all illustrate that the Meticulously Built Trigger is at an excellent weight for its design and material, amid the greater market and listed alternatives.
Overall Rating – Good (20/25)
Product Link: https://www.larue.com/products/larue-tactical-mbt-2s-straight-bow-trigger/
I am reviewing this product as a courtesy to the manufacturer and via High Ground Media, LLC, so that I can evaluate it and provide my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give positive reviews. All views are my own, and based off my personal experience with the product.
The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the author. The views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.