Rare Breed FTR vs WOT vs Fostech vs Franklin Armory vs M16
1. Rare Breed FRT-15 (Forced Reset Trigger)
Features and Functionality
- Mechanism: Utilizes a forced reset system to speed up trigger cycling, enabling rapid successive shots while staying semi-automatic.
- Rate of Fire: Significantly reduces split times between shots, approaching the functionality of fully automatic firing without crossing legal thresholds (depending on jurisdiction).
- Applications: Ideal for competition shooting and recreational purposes.
Legal Status
- Heavily scrutinized by the ATF for resembling the performance of a machine gun. A 2024 court ruling currently permits its sale under federal law, though appeals may follow.
2. Wide Open Trigger (WOT)
Features and Functionality
- Mechanism: Similar to the FRT-15, the WOT uses a forced reset mechanism designed to maximize the firing speed of semi-automatic rifles.
- Durability: Marketed as more robust, using hardened steel components that withstand extended use under high-performance conditions.
Legal Status
- Faces similar legal challenges to the FRT-15. Ownership legality varies by jurisdiction and federal rulings.
3. Fostech Echo Triggers
Features and Functionality
- Mechanism: Implements a binary firing system that fires one round on the pull and another on the release of the trigger.
- Control: Offers better manual control than forced reset triggers, as the firing behavior is tied to deliberate trigger actions.
- Modes: Provides selectable firing modes (semi-auto, binary) for versatility.
Legal Status
- Generally legal under federal law but subject to state-specific restrictions.
4. Franklin Armory BFSIII (Binary Firing System Gen III)
Features and Functionality
- Mechanism: Similar to the Fostech Echo, the BFSIII fires one round on trigger pull and another on release.
- Compatibility: Known for broader compatibility with various firearm platforms (AR, AK, HK, etc.).
- Applications: Popular for recreational shooting, hunting, and competition.
Legal Status
- Federal approval has been granted, but state restrictions may apply (e.g., prohibited in CA, NY, etc.).
5. M16 (Fully Automatic)
Features and Functionality
- Mechanism: The standard military-grade M16 offers selectable firing modes, including fully automatic (continuous firing while the trigger is held).
- Control: Requires training to manage recoil and maintain accuracy during automatic fire.
- Applications: Designed for military and law enforcement use.
Legal Status
- Fully automatic firearms are heavily restricted under the National Firearms Act (NFA). Civilian ownership requires a registered, transferable machine gun manufactured before May 19, 1986, along with extensive background checks and approval from the ATF.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature/Aspect | Rare Breed FRT-15 | WOT | Fostech Echo | Franklin BFSIII | M16 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Forced reset trigger | Forced reset trigger | Binary trigger | Binary trigger | Fully automatic |
| Fire Rate | Semi-auto, rapid fire | Semi-auto, rapid fire | Binary, 2x semi-auto | Binary, 2x semi-auto | Fully automatic |
| Control | High | High | Medium (due to release) | Medium (due to release) | Low (automatic recoil) |
| Legal Status | Mixed/Contested | Mixed/Contested | Generally legal | Generally legal | Highly restricted |
| Target Use | Competition/Recreation | Competition/Recreation | Competition/Recreation | Competition/Recreation | Military/Law Enforcement |
Key Takeaways
- Rare Breed FRT-15 and WOT: Excellent for high-speed shooting enthusiasts, but their legality is often debated, requiring owners to monitor legal updates carefully.
- Fostech Echo and Franklin BFSIII: Offer similar capabilities but emphasize user control with the binary system, making them attractive for recreational shooters and hobbyists.
- M16: While offering unparalleled firepower, its legal restrictions make it nearly inaccessible to the average civilian.
Before purchasing or installing any of these products, check their legality in your area and consider consulting legal professionals for advice. This ensures you stay compliant while enjoying enhanced firearm performance.
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