Forced-Reset Trigger Litigation
This page summarizes major civil and federal actions involving forced-reset triggers (FRTs), including injunctions, enforcement attempts, and settlement terms. Each case links to primary source documents so you can review the filings directly.
All documents are reproduced or summarized from public filings. Nothing here is legal advice.
Key Litigation Events
The cases below shaped federal treatment of forced-reset triggers, including injunctions and settlement terms affecting sale, seizure, and classification.
United States v. Rare Breed Triggers LLC
Eastern District of New York – Preliminary Injunction
Federal action seeking to block sales and distribution of the FRT-15, arguing it is a machine gun
under the NFA. This filing led to early seizure efforts and is widely cited by ATF in enforcement
communications.
View Filing →
Federal Settlement Agreement
Department of Justice Settlement (May 13, 2025)
Sets terms governing federal treatment of forced-reset triggers, including a pause on active
enforcement against lawfully held units and guidance on the handling / return of seized triggers.
Referenced as proof that FRTs are not categorically machine guns under federal law.
View Filing →
Cease & Desist / Contributory Infringement Notice
April 1, 2025 – Super Safety / 3-Position Selector
Formal notice demanding that resellers stop marketing “clone” products alleged to infringe patented
fire-control mechanisms. Used to establish that FRT-related IP is being actively enforced against
competitors and distributors.
View Filing →
Litigation Timeline
2023 ──> Federal complaint filed against Rare Breed Triggers (EDNY),
seeking to classify the FRT-15 as a machine gun and enjoin sales.
2024 ──> Federal court orders restrict ATF from pursuing certain enforcement
actions and communications regarding FRTs as machine guns.
2025 ──> Settlement agreement executed with DOJ (May 13, 2025),
pausing active federal enforcement and addressing return policies
for seized triggers.
Want full filings, scans, and source documents?
Visit the Legal Library for full PDFs of court orders, ATF memoranda, settlement agreements, and cease & desist correspondence.
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