Partisan Disruptor FRT Review: The Best Forced Reset Trigger for 2026
The Partisan Disruptor brings forced reset technology to the AR-15 platform at $299 with a true drop-in cassette design, 3-position selector, and proven reliability through 6,000+ rounds of testing. Here's what you need to know.
Key Takeaways
- →3-Position Selector: Safe, Semi-Auto, and Enhanced Semi-Auto (forced reset) modes in a single trigger unit
- →True Drop-In Design: Cassette-style installation requires no gunsmithing, fitting, or lower modification
- →$299 Price Point: Undercuts competitors while delivering a crisper semi-auto pull than the Rare Breed FRT
- →Legal Status: FRTs are federally legal following the May 2025 DOJ settlement, though 15 states have restrictions
- →Buffer Requirements: Minimum H2 buffer (H3 recommended) for reliable cycling on 16" and shorter barrels
What is a Forced Reset Trigger?
A forced reset trigger (FRT) mechanically resets the trigger against the shooter's finger as the bolt carrier group cycles. The firearm remains semi-automatic: one trigger function equals one round fired. The difference is that the trigger resets at the speed of the BCG rather than waiting for the shooter to release and re-press.
This allows cyclic rates approaching 1,000-1,200 rounds per minute while maintaining semi-automatic legal status. The shooter still controls each shot: releasing pressure on the trigger stops the firing cycle immediately.
The Partisan Disruptor descends from the original TacCon 3MR trigger design and is covered by US Patent 9146067. It's not a copy of the Rare Breed FRT but rather a distinct implementation of forced reset technology with its own engineering refinements.
Featured: FRT Triggers Compared
The Partisan Disruptor leads our FRT recommendations, but the Atrius FRS and Mars system offer alternative approaches worth considering.
Design and Construction
The Disruptor uses a cassette-style interface, a design choice that ensures all contact surfaces maintain proper alignment. This eliminates the fitment issues that plague some drop-in trigger designs and makes installation genuinely tool-free for most users.
Specifications
- Trigger Pull (Semi)3.75-4.1 lbs
- Trigger Pull (FRT)~4.5 lbs
- Selector PositionsSafe / Semi / Enhanced
- Construction4140 Chromoly, S7 Tool Steel
- InstallationDrop-In Cassette
- PinsAnti-Walk Pins Included
- Buffer RequirementH2 Min, H3 Recommended
- PatentUS 9146067
- MSRP$299
Heat-treated 4140 chromoly steel and S7 tool steel are used on all wear surfaces. The CMP Service Rifle Match-compliant pull weight of 3.75-4.1 lbs in semi-auto mode is noticeably crisper than competing FRT designs, with a shorter reset that reviewers consistently praise.
Performance Testing
Partisan subjected the Disruptor to over 6,000 rounds under a course of fire derived from the USMC M27 IAR evaluation criteria. Independent reviewers have confirmed the durability claims with their own extended testing.
In controlled testing, the trigger achieved cyclic rates around 1,150 rounds per minute in FRT mode. A four-target drill (5 rounds per target at 5 yards) showed clear time advantages: 5.9 seconds in semi-auto versus 3.9 seconds in forced reset mode.
The trigger ran reliably across 10 different magazine types including Magpul Gen 2, Gen 3 PMAGs, Lancer, Daniel Defense, Hexmag, Amend 2, and standard GI aluminum magazines. No bolt hang-ups or cycling issues were reported during extended testing.
Tested Configurations
- DI AR-15 (Standard)Reliable
- Piston AR-15Reliable
- 10.5" Barrel BuildsReliable
- 20" Barrel BuildsReliable
- SIG MCXLight Primer Strikes
- PSA AR-V (9mm)Ejection Issues
Compatibility caveat: The trigger did not function reliably in a SIG MCX (light primer strikes) or PSA AR-V 9mm PCC (ejection issues). Standard AR-15 platforms, including both DI and piston systems, ran without issues.
Shop Forced Reset Triggers
Compare the Partisan Disruptor with other FRT options including the Atrius FRS selector and Mars 3-position system.
Installation Notes
Installation is straightforward for standard AR-15 lowers. The cassette drops in, anti-walk pins secure it, and you're done. However, there are some important considerations:
- →M16-cut lowers: The extra clearance in M16/auto sear pocket lowers can allow a critical internal screw to back out. Staking is recommended for these receivers.
- →Reassembly tip: When closing the upper and lower receivers, pull the charging handle back slightly to ensure the trip bar aligns correctly. A credit card or similar tool can help depress the trip bar during reassembly.
- →Buffer weight: Use H2 minimum with sliding weights. H3 is recommended for 16" and shorter barrels to ensure consistent cycling in FRT mode.
Partisan vs. Rare Breed FRT
The Rare Breed FRT-15 established the forced reset trigger market, but the Partisan Disruptor offers meaningful improvements at a lower price point.
| Feature | Partisan Disruptor | Rare Breed FRT-15 |
|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $299 | $380+ |
| Semi-Auto Pull | Crisper, shorter reset | Good |
| Selector Positions | 3 (Safe/Semi/FRT) | 3 |
| Design Origin | TacCon 3MR lineage | Original design |
| Installation | Cassette drop-in | Drop-in |
Multiple reviewers note the Disruptor's semi-auto mode feels superior to the Rare Breed, with a crisper break and shorter reset. This makes it more versatile as an everyday trigger rather than purely a novelty item.
Legal Status (2026)
In May 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice settled ongoing litigation regarding FRT legality, acknowledging that forced reset triggers are federally legal and not classified as machine guns. This resolved the ATF's previous attempts to regulate FRTs under the National Firearms Act.
State Restrictions: FRTs remain prohibited in 15 states: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Washington, plus Washington D.C.
Check your state and local laws before purchasing. Some jurisdictions have enacted their own restrictions on rate-increasing devices regardless of federal classification.
Future Platform Support
Partisan has announced plans to expand the Disruptor line to additional platforms:
- →AK platform
- →AR-10 / .308
- →FAL
Release timelines have not been announced. The AR-15 version launched in December 2025 with ongoing production meeting demand.
Stay Updated on FRT News
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The Verdict
The Partisan Disruptor is the FRT to buy in 2026. At $299, it undercuts the Rare Breed while delivering a superior semi-auto trigger feel. The cassette installation is genuinely drop-in, the reliability record is strong, and the 3-position selector provides flexibility other designs lack.
Buy it if: You want forced reset functionality on a standard AR-15 platform at a reasonable price, and you live in a state where FRTs are legal.
Skip it if: You run a SIG MCX, PCC, or other non-standard platform. The trigger is optimized for DI and piston AR-15s and may have compatibility issues elsewhere.
Bottom line: The Disruptor delivers on its promises. Reliable forced reset, excellent semi-auto performance, proper drop-in installation, and a price that makes sense. For AR-15 owners in free states, it's worth having in the collection.
Configure your own AR-15 build in our Interactive Builder or browse our Platform Catalog for compatible rifles.
