- 01: Introduction
- 02: History
- 03: Propellants, Firearms, and Ammunition Development
- 04: Modern Firearms Manufacture
- 05: Small Arms Ammunition
- 06: Evidence Handling Procedures
- 07: Equipment and Instrumentation
- Introduction
- Objectives
- AFTE Knowledge and Ability Factors
- Measurement, Standards, and Accuracy
- Weight, Force, and Their Measurement
- Dimensional Data and Measurement Tools
- Muzzle Velocity of Bullets
- Stereo and Comparison Microscopes
- Small Tools and Supplies
- Imaging Equipment
- Field Support Equipment
- Computer-Based Technologies
- Firing Facilities
- Selected Bibliography
- 08: Examination of Firearms
- 09: Cartridge and Shotshell Examination
- 10: Characterization and Evaluation of Fired Projectiles
- 11: Bullet Comparison and Identification
- 12: Gunshot Residue and Distance Determination
- 13: Toolmark Identification
- 14: Communicating Results
- Resources
Digital Trigger Pull Testers
Home > Equipment and Instrumentation > Weight, Force, and Their Measurement > Digital Trigger Pull Testers
Digital force gauge
Digital trigger pull testers are push and pull testing devices that usually have rod-like adapters for measuring trigger pull for both handguns and long guns. The basic unit can usually be handheld or mounted permanently.
These instruments are innovative because they capture and store information relating to the full range of trigger motion: the pressure exerted and the distance traveled as the force on the trigger begins, increases, and goes to zero at sear release. Optional software that allows for real-time data porting into a computer as well as a software interface accessed from the computer keyboard may be available. The graphical results represented as a color-coded force versus distance plot in different types of units can be saved for use as case documentation.
Calibration requirements are brand specific and should be adhered to as required.
The TriggerScan™ System
TriggerScan™ in use
TriggerScan™ is an advanced system engineered specifically for gunsmiths and firearm examiners. It is not an industrial tool retrofitted for a special use.
The system employs a mounting fixture for various types of firearms. The fixture makes it easier to mount firearms uniformly and to mount the motorized sensor arm that protrudes into the trigger guard and squeezes the trigger to the rear. The software allows for control by keyboard or from the body of the sensor. The test results are displayed on-screen in both graphical and tabular forms. The data can be stored, printed, and retrieved for case documentation. The data are completely annotated and can be customized with information, such as case identifiers, date/time, serial numbers, double action, single action, and name of the individual performing the test.
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Trigger job printout on a Kel-Tec P-11 pistol
Click for larger imageThe printouts are multicolored and display a force versus distance plot, including the initial trigger travel, maximum force, and the point at which the trigger pull drops to zero after firing.
The system includes a calibration tool for making adjustments against a known standard. The manufacturer will also perform the calibration service.
