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Franklin Armory is known for finding creative ways for us to enjoy something closer to our full 2nd Ammendment rights without violating unconstitutional laws. I applaud them for that and hope they keep up the good fight until our right to keep and bear arms is no longer infringed. One such invention is the concept of the binary trigger.
What Is It? Binary triggers, as the name implies trigger the firearm in two ways. With a binary trigger the firearm is fired once upon pulling the trigger and once upon releasing the trigger. This does not violate laws, nor does it classify as a machine gun because the weapon only fires once per function of the trigger.
What's It For? In the case of the Glock 17 model (G-S173) and Grand Power Stribog model (SP-S1), both handgun-caliber firearms it makes a lot of sense. Handguns are a compromise of power in exchange for portability. FBI statistics have shown that it takes an average of three hits, regardless of caliber, to neutralize a threat. This is why "double taps", "hammered pairs" and "controlled pairs" are such an important part of defensive training. The problem is that delivering such shots requires skill and practice not all have time to develop.
With a Franklin Armory binary trigger the second shot can come as quickly as you release the trigger.
In the words of the great Carnik Con,
"Well-ventilated bad guys reach room temperature quickest."
Is It Safe? Yes. Unlike a machine gun which can get out of hand without practice, binary triggers only fire when you pull or release the trigger. Should you want to cancel the release shot simply move the selector back to the standard fire position.
In a few ways I find this is safer than a typical machine gun
The rate of fire is complete up to the user
Release shots can be canceled
The firearm's function retains the safety features of a traditional semi-auto. For example no fixed firing pin to risk causing a run away gun.
What Does it Cost? These are not inexpensive. In fact, when they first came onto the market I doubted them and argued that for the same amount of money one could buy a case of ammunition and learn to shoot quickly with any gun. Since then ammunition prices have risen, and my simple refute ignores the time cost as well as finding a good coach to help one get quick with the trigger. For as much training as I've had (more than 60 full days in national-level training) I can not replicate the same split times, nor as reliably, as I could in my first ten minutes with a Franklin Armory binary trigger.
Stribog model SP-S1
This model was very easy to install, and is for a model of firearm that I believe is easiest to control during rapid fire streams. You will of course need a Stribog.
Glock 17 Model G-S173
This model costs a bit more because it includes a nicely-done slide. There are simple more parts Franklin Armory has to make in order for this mechanism to fit into a handgun. You will need a Gen 3 Glock 17 frame, barrel, and recoil assembly. I used a Bear Creek barrel and Lone Wolf steel guide rod.
To get a feel for both the SP-S1 and G-S173 I headed to the woods as my local range has some interesting restrictions, including against such triggers even though they regularly host competitive matches in which shooter regularly fire hammered pairs.
Out in the freedom of the woods I began with comparing my own paired shots against a pull and releas pair, then attemped strings of fire at increasing speeds to find my base speed limit. You can watch the process and decide for yourself if this is a practical enabler, just for fun, both, or neither.
It's my conclusion based on these initial experiences that I was wrong to mock binary triggers years ago. In my opinion they are not a cheat, gimmick, or expensive range toy, rather an enhancement of one's pre-existing skills. Additionally, I could see experience with a Frankin Armory binary trigger as a way to enhance one's ability to control a firearm through recoil.
I learned a great drill in a training course with Valhalla Firearms Training not long ago that while most people can control a gun easily through two or three quick shots, it takes skill to control beyond that. Learning to do so also enhances your ability in single and double shots. With a Franklin Armory binary trigger one can focus on grip and aim because the tirgger is easier to run.
One other note on triggers: I found the trigger feel to be better with both the G-S173 and SP-S1 than a standard factory trigger. The G-S173 might have been slightly heavier than a factory Glock, but was much cleaner and crisper. The SP-S1 felt like the kind of trigger a gun like a Stribog should have.
I'm suspicious about this device, and can easily see why anti-2A people are having a spit fit with this. It has a high potential for misuse.
I also can see this as a gang banngers, drive by, delight. Add in a 50 round drum mag , yikes.
Practical and possibly fun. I've wanted to throw one in a .22cal for awhile now
I guess I'm just too much of an Old Pharte - I cannot warm up to this technology. From the first shot with a .22 long single shot rifle at age 10 I have been indoctrinated with the idea that trigger control and precision are paramount when shooting. These triggers seem to be right right on the ragged bleeding edge of uncontrolled mayhem to me. I see that you are able to control the weapons well and actually be almost accurate instead of simply spraying ammo "out there somewhere". You, unlike the vast majority of shooters, are a trained marksman with both military and civilian experience. I wouldn't trust anyone I've ever been on a range with to run a…