Description
The Geissele SSA-E is a non-adjustable, two-stage semi-automatic trigger for AR-15 and AR-10 platforms. It’s a drop-in replacement that uses standard mil-spec .154″ trigger and hammer pins — no proprietary pins, no lower receiver modifications required.
The trigger is built on the same chassis as Geissele’s SSA combat trigger used by U.S. Special Operations units, with the pull weight reduced for precision shooting applications. The first stage pulls at approximately 2.3 lbs with a smooth, light take-up. The second stage breaks at approximately 1.2 lbs with a short, clean break — Geissele describes it as “candy cane-like,” and that’s actually a fair description. Total pull weight runs approximately 3.5 lbs, though Geissele specs the range at 2.9–3.8 lbs across units.
The hammer and trigger are precision EDM wire-cut from tool steel with a black oxide finish. The hammer is lighter than a standard AR-15 hammer, which reduces lock time from the mil-spec 8.5ms to 5.1ms. Geissele retains a full-power hammer spring (not a lightened spring), ensuring reliable primer ignition across all ammunition types including mil-spec hard primers. Hammer and trigger pins are hardened 4140 chrome moly steel.
The design has no adjustment screws, all springs are captive (they won’t launch during disassembly), and the trigger can be installed without removing the safety selector. The entire assembly disassembles for cleaning with no rivets or staked parts.
This trigger (05-160) features a curved M4-style trigger bow. For a flat-face version with identical internals, see the Geissele SD-E. Not compatible with SIG MPX/MCX, HK416 (with firing pin safety), or pistol caliber carbine AR variants.
Specs:
- Platform: AR-15 / AR-10
- Type: Two-stage, semi-automatic only
- 1st stage pull: ~2.3 lbs (range: 2.0–2.5 lbs)
- 2nd stage pull: ~1.2 lbs (range: 0.9–1.3 lbs)
- Total pull weight: ~3.5 lbs (range: 2.9–3.8 lbs)
- Trigger bow: M4 curved
- Pin size: Mil-spec .154″
- Adjustable: No
- Lock time: 5.1ms (vs. 8.5ms mil-spec)
- Material: Tool steel (EDM wire-cut), black oxide finish
- Hammer/trigger pins: Hardened 4140 chrome moly
- MSRP: $250.00




