Are FRT Triggers Legal in Michigan?

Forward reset triggers (FRT) are a type of firearm trigger modification designed to reduce the reset time between shots. In Michigan, the legality of FRT triggers is nuanced and depends on specific state and federal regulations. While FRTs are not outright banned, their use and possession are subject to certain conditions.

Understanding Michigan’s firearm laws is crucial because state law governs firearm modifications, even when federal regulations exist. This article explores how Michigan law treats FRT triggers and what gun owners need to know to stay compliant.

Is It Legal to Own or Use FRT Triggers in Michigan?

Yes, owning and using forward reset triggers in Michigan is generally legal for residents and visitors. However, legality means compliance with both state and federal firearm laws, including restrictions on modifications that increase firing speed.

This rule applies to anyone possessing, selling, or manufacturing FRT triggers within Michigan. Users must ensure their trigger modifications do not classify the firearm as a machine gun under federal law.

• Michigan does not explicitly ban FRT triggers, allowing legal ownership and use in most cases.

• Possession is lawful for residents and non-residents, provided the firearm remains compliant with other state laws.

• Retail sale and transfer of FRT triggers are permitted under Michigan law, subject to standard firearm transaction regulations.

• Manufacturing or installing FRT triggers is legal, but modifications must not convert the firearm into a machine gun.

• Using FRT triggers on firearms in public or private settings follows general firearm use laws in Michigan.

Overall, FRT triggers are legal to own and use in Michigan, but users must remain aware of related regulations.

What Does Michigan State Law Say About FRT Triggers?

Michigan law regulates firearms and their components but does not specifically mention forward reset triggers. Instead, the state focuses on broader firearm classifications and prohibited devices.

FRT triggers fall under firearm parts, and Michigan law permits their possession and use unless they cause the firearm to become an illegal weapon under state statutes.

• Michigan Penal Code regulates machine guns and automatic weapons but does not list FRT triggers as prohibited devices.

• Possession of parts like FRT triggers is lawful unless they convert a firearm into a machine gun or other banned weapon.

• State law requires compliance with firearm registration and transfer rules when applicable.

• Enforcement typically targets illegal automatic weapons rather than trigger modifications like FRTs.

• Local jurisdictions in Michigan generally follow state law without additional restrictions on FRT triggers.

Michigan’s approach allows FRT triggers unless they alter the firearm’s classification illegally.

Does Federal Law Affect the Legality of FRT Triggers in Michigan?

Federal law plays a significant role in regulating firearm modifications, including FRT triggers, especially concerning the National Firearms Act (NFA) and the Gun Control Act (GCA).

FRT triggers are legal under federal law as long as they do not convert a semi-automatic firearm into a machine gun, which is strictly prohibited.

• The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) regulates firearm modifications and classifies machine guns under the NFA.

• FRT triggers that do not enable fully automatic fire are generally legal under federal law.

• Installing an FRT trigger that causes multiple shots with a single trigger pull would violate federal law.

• Federal law preempts state law when it comes to machine guns and automatic weapons, setting a baseline for legality.

• Users must ensure their FRT triggers comply with ATF guidelines to avoid federal penalties.

Federal law permits FRT triggers if they do not transform the firearm into a machine gun.

Which Law Applies in Common Real-World Scenarios?

Understanding which laws apply helps Michigan residents and visitors navigate FRT trigger ownership and use in everyday situations.

Both state and federal laws interact depending on the context of possession, purchase, and use.

• Owning an FRT trigger at home in Michigan is governed primarily by state law, provided federal machine gun laws are not violated.

• Buying an FRT trigger online requires compliance with federal shipping regulations and Michigan’s firearm parts laws.

• Transporting an FRT trigger across state lines involves federal interstate commerce laws and destination state regulations.

• Using an FRT trigger on private property in Michigan is legal under state law, assuming no other firearm restrictions apply.

• Using an FRT trigger in public spaces must comply with Michigan’s firearm carry and use laws alongside federal regulations.

Both Michigan and federal laws must be considered in practical scenarios involving FRT triggers.

Restrictions and Conditions You Must Follow

While FRT triggers are generally legal, certain restrictions and conditions apply to their possession and use in Michigan.

These include age limits, licensing requirements, and prohibitions on modifications that increase firing capability unlawfully.

• Individuals must be at least 18 years old to legally possess firearm parts like FRT triggers in Michigan.

• Federal law prohibits possession by convicted felons and certain restricted persons, applicable in Michigan.

• Modifications that convert a firearm into a machine gun are illegal and subject to severe penalties.

• No special license is required in Michigan solely for owning or installing an FRT trigger.

• Using FRT triggers in restricted areas, such as schools or government buildings, is prohibited under state and federal laws.

Compliance with these conditions is essential to legally own and use FRT triggers in Michigan.

Penalties for Violating the Law in Michigan

Violating Michigan’s firearm laws related to FRT triggers can result in serious civil and criminal penalties.

Penalties vary depending on the nature of the violation, such as illegal possession or unlawful modification.

• Possession of an FRT trigger that converts a firearm into a machine gun can lead to felony charges under federal and state law.

• Penalties include fines, imprisonment, confiscation of firearms, and loss of firearm rights.

• First-time offenses may result in misdemeanor charges if the violation is less severe, such as possession by a prohibited person.

• Law enforcement typically initiates investigations based on tip-offs or during firearm-related stops.

• Civil penalties may include forfeiture of the firearm and related accessories.

Understanding penalties helps ensure compliance and avoid legal consequences in Michigan.

Common Situations Where People Get Confused

Many firearm owners misunderstand the legality of FRT triggers due to overlapping state and federal laws and technical firearm definitions.

Clarifying these common confusions helps prevent inadvertent violations.

• Some believe all trigger modifications are illegal, but FRT triggers are legal if they do not enable automatic fire.

• Confusion exists between owning an FRT trigger and using it to convert a firearm into a machine gun, which is illegal.

• Online purchases may seem legal federally but could violate state laws if the firearm is altered unlawfully.

• Traveling interstate with an FRT trigger requires understanding both states’ laws and federal regulations.

• Federal legality myths often cause owners to overlook state restrictions or vice versa.

Clear knowledge of laws reduces confusion and legal risks.

Recent Legal Changes or Court Decisions

As of 2026, Michigan has not enacted specific new laws or court decisions directly addressing forward reset triggers.

The state continues to follow existing firearm regulations without additional restrictions on FRT triggers.

• No recent Michigan legislation explicitly bans or restricts FRT triggers beyond existing firearm laws.

• Court decisions have not specifically ruled on FRT triggers, leaving their legality consistent.

• Federal ATF rulings continue to guide the classification of trigger modifications nationwide.

• Michigan lawmakers have not proposed bills targeting FRT triggers specifically.

• Firearm enthusiasts should monitor legislative updates for any future changes affecting FRT triggers.

The legal status of FRT triggers in Michigan remains stable with no recent changes.

Practical Examples

If you live in Michigan and install an FRT trigger on your semi-automatic rifle, you are generally within the law as long as the firearm does not fire automatically.

This means you can legally use the firearm for recreational shooting or hunting, following all firearm safety and carry laws.

• Example 1: A Michigan resident installs an FRT trigger on a rifle and uses it at a private range. State and federal laws permit this use as the firearm remains semi-automatic.

• Example 2: A person buys an FRT trigger online from another state and ships it to Michigan. The purchase is legal federally and under Michigan law, provided the firearm is not converted into a machine gun.

These examples illustrate lawful ownership and use scenarios for FRT triggers in Michigan.

Conclusion

Forward reset triggers are generally legal to own and use in Michigan, provided they do not convert firearms into machine guns. Both state and federal laws regulate their possession and use, with federal law setting strict limits on automatic fire capabilities.

Gun owners must comply with age restrictions, avoid prohibited modifications, and understand the interplay between Michigan and federal firearm laws. Staying informed about these rules ensures lawful and safe use of FRT triggers within the state.

FAQs

Can I legally buy an FRT trigger in Michigan?

Yes, you can legally purchase an FRT trigger in Michigan, either in-store or online, as long as the firearm remains compliant with state and federal laws regarding automatic fire.

Is it legal to install an FRT trigger on my rifle in Michigan?

Installing an FRT trigger is legal if it does not convert your rifle into a machine gun. Ensure the modification complies with both Michigan and federal regulations.

What penalties exist for illegal use of FRT triggers in Michigan?

Penalties include fines, imprisonment, and confiscation if the FRT trigger causes the firearm to function as a machine gun or violates other firearm laws.

Can I travel with an FRT trigger across state lines?

Traveling with an FRT trigger requires compliance with federal interstate transport laws and the firearm laws of the destination state to avoid legal issues.

Are FRT triggers allowed on private property in Michigan?

Yes, using FRT triggers on private property is allowed under Michigan law, provided the firearm remains legal and all other firearm regulations are followed.