Introduction
The Ruger PC Carbine. A name synonymous with versatility, reliability, and a whole lot of fun at the range. This semi-automatic carbine has rapidly become a favorite among shooters of all levels, from casual plinkers to dedicated home defense enthusiasts. Its modularity, ease of use, and affordability make it a fantastic choice for a variety of shooting activities. However, even with all its strengths, one common point of criticism consistently surfaces: the factory trigger. Many owners find the standard trigger wanting, plagued by a heavy pull weight, a long and sometimes gritty travel, and a less-than-crisp break. This can negatively impact accuracy and overall shooting enjoyment.
Fortunately, the aftermarket community has stepped in to address this issue, offering a plethora of trigger upgrades designed to transform the Ruger PC Carbine into a more refined and accurate firearm. Among the most highly regarded and sought-after upgrades is the **Volquartsen TG9 Trigger Assembly for Ruger PC Carbine**.
This article delves deep into the world of the Volquartsen TG9, exploring its features, benefits, installation process, and real-world performance. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter looking to optimize your PC Carbine or a new owner seeking an immediate upgrade, this comprehensive review will provide you with the insights you need to decide if the TG9 is the right trigger assembly for you. We’ll dissect its components, guide you through the installation, and present a balanced assessment of its strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Volquartsen TG9 Trigger Assembly
Volquartsen Firearms. The name is almost whispered with reverence in the world of precision shooting. Known for their commitment to quality and innovation, Volquartsen has built a reputation for producing high-performance aftermarket parts, particularly for rimfire rifles and carbines. Their dedication to excellence translates directly into products that offer a tangible improvement in accuracy, reliability, and overall shooting experience. The **Volquartsen TG9 Trigger Assembly for Ruger PC Carbine** is a prime example of their expertise.
The TG9 trigger assembly is a complete, drop-in replacement for the factory trigger components. This means you’re not just swapping out a single part; you’re upgrading the entire trigger mechanism for a significantly improved feel and performance. The assembly typically includes a redesigned trigger, sear, hammer, and all the necessary springs and pins. Volquartsen meticulously engineers these components to work in perfect harmony, providing a level of precision and consistency that the factory trigger simply cannot match.
Let’s explore some of the key features and benefits that make the **Volquartsen TG9 Trigger Assembly for Ruger PC Carbine** so appealing:
A Light Trigger Pull
A defining characteristic. The factory trigger can often feel heavy and inconsistent, leading to unwanted movement and a disruption of your sight picture. The TG9, on the other hand, is engineered for a significantly lighter pull weight. This reduced pull weight allows for more precise control and minimizes the chance of inadvertently pulling the shot off target.
A Short Reset
Is another crucial benefit. The distance the trigger needs to travel to reset after firing directly impacts the speed at which you can take follow-up shots. The TG9 boasts a noticeably shorter reset than the original trigger, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved overall shooting efficiency. This is particularly advantageous in dynamic shooting scenarios, such as competitive events or home defense situations.
A Crisp Break
Is essential for consistent accuracy. A clean, crisp trigger break means the trigger releases the sear with a defined, predictable feel. This eliminates the “mushy” or “creepy” feeling often associated with factory triggers, allowing you to break the shot with greater precision. The TG9’s design facilitates a clean break, resulting in a more predictable and accurate shot placement.
Improved Accuracy
Is a direct result of the previously mentioned features. The lighter pull, shorter reset, and crisp break all contribute to a more consistent and controlled shooting experience. By minimizing unwanted movement and improving the predictability of the trigger, the TG9 can significantly enhance your accuracy potential. Shooters often report noticeable improvements in group sizes after upgrading to the TG9.
High-Quality Materials
Contribute to both durability and performance. Volquartsen uses high-quality materials throughout the TG9 assembly, ensuring longevity and reliability. The trigger, sear, and other critical components are typically constructed from tool steel or aircraft-grade aluminum, providing exceptional wear resistance and consistent performance over time. This means the trigger will withstand heavy use and continue to function flawlessly for years to come.
The Drop-In Installation
Is a key selling point for many. The TG9 is designed as a drop-in replacement, meaning it requires no gunsmithing expertise. You can install it yourself with basic tools in a relatively short amount of time, making it a convenient and accessible upgrade for shooters of all skill levels. The drop-in design minimizes the risk of damaging your firearm during installation.
Specifications
are usually impressive. While specific measurements can vary, expect the TG9 to often feature a pull weight in the range of a pound or two pounds or even lower. It’s designed to have a very short reset distance, and a very crisp break. The materials are selected to be durable and of high quality, built to withstand many uses.
Installation Process – A Smooth Transition
Before embarking on any firearm modification, safety should always be your utmost priority. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded.
First, verify the firearm is unloaded. Open the bolt, visually and physically inspect the chamber to ensure it is empty. Remove the magazine and ensure that the chamber and magazine are empty. Point the muzzle in a safe direction.
Next, gather your tools. While the **Volquartsen TG9 Trigger Assembly for Ruger PC Carbine** is designed for ease of installation, having the right tools makes the process smoother. You’ll typically need:
A punch set, including various sizes of roll pin punches (necessary for removing and installing the trigger pins).
A small hammer (for tapping the punch).
A set of Allen wrenches (some assemblies may require the use of Allen screws).
A gunsmithing mat or a clean, uncluttered workspace.
Prepare the Ruger PC Carbine: Begin by field stripping the PC Carbine. Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual to separate the upper and lower receivers.
Removing the Original Trigger Assembly
The first step is to carefully remove the factory trigger assembly. This typically involves:
Removing the Trigger Housing Assembly Pins: Locate the pins that secure the trigger housing assembly to the lower receiver. Use a roll pin punch and hammer to carefully tap these pins out. Be sure to support the receiver to avoid any damage.
Removing the Trigger, Sear, and Hammer: Once the housing pins are removed, you can typically remove the trigger, sear, and hammer. Pay close attention to the orientation of the springs and other components, as you’ll need to install the Volquartsen components in a similar manner.
Installing the **Volquartsen TG9 Trigger Assembly**
Now comes the upgrade.
Installing the New Trigger Components: Carefully insert the new trigger components (trigger, sear, hammer, and springs) into the trigger housing assembly, aligning them with the corresponding holes.
Installing the Trigger Housing Assembly: Once the trigger is assembled, put the housing back into the lower receiver and then install the pins. Re-insert the roll pins, using the punch and hammer, until they are flush.
Reassemble the Ruger PC Carbine: Carefully reassemble the upper and lower receivers of your Ruger PC Carbine, ensuring that all components are correctly aligned and secured.
Function Check is a final, critical step. After installing the TG9, perform a thorough function check:
Verify the Trigger Pull: Test the trigger pull to ensure it feels crisp and clean.
Safety Function: Check the safety to ensure it functions correctly and prevents the trigger from firing when engaged.
Dry Fire (if safe to do so): With an empty magazine and the firearm pointed in a safe direction, dry fire the carbine to verify the hammer falls and the trigger resets properly.
The installation process for the **Volquartsen TG9 Trigger Assembly for Ruger PC Carbine** is generally considered to be straightforward and accessible for most firearm owners.
Performance and Testing
The ultimate test of any upgrade is its impact on performance. Installing the **Volquartsen TG9 Trigger Assembly for Ruger PC Carbine** promises a noticeable difference, and the results speak for themselves.
Trigger Pull Comparison
The contrast between the stock trigger and the TG9 is usually substantial. The stock trigger often exhibits a pull weight in the 5-7 pound range, with a long travel and a somewhat spongy feel. The TG9, however, typically offers a pull weight around half or less of that, providing a cleaner break and a shorter reset.
Shooting Performance
reveals the real benefits.
Accuracy Testing
The key metric for evaluating the trigger’s effectiveness is accuracy. When shooting the Ruger PC Carbine with the stock trigger, the groups may be a bit larger. However, with the Volquartsen TG9, the consistent trigger pull often allows for tighter groups and more precise shot placement.
Feel and Experience
is greatly improved. The most immediate difference is the feeling of control. The lighter pull, shorter reset, and crisp break create a smoother and more predictable shooting experience. The shooter will find it easier to maintain sight alignment. Follow-up shots also become faster and more precise, which contributes to a better overall shooting experience.
Reliability
is critical, especially for a home defense or competition firearm. Volquartsen’s high-quality components and rigorous testing ensure that the TG9 trigger assembly is exceptionally reliable.
Pros and Cons – A Balanced View
The **Volquartsen TG9 Trigger Assembly for Ruger PC Carbine** presents a compelling upgrade, but let’s examine its advantages and disadvantages:
The advantages
are noteworthy:
Improved Trigger Pull is the most significant benefit. The lighter pull weight and more consistent break provide an immediate improvement in accuracy and control.
Enhanced Accuracy is a direct result of the improved trigger pull. Tighter groups and more precise shot placement are common outcomes.
Easy Installation makes the upgrade accessible for shooters of all skill levels. No gunsmithing expertise is needed.
High-Quality Construction ensures durability and long-term reliability.
The reduced reset improves the speed of the shooter, leading to more success.
The disadvantages
are fewer, but worth considering:
Cost is a factor. The TG9 is an investment, though the benefits often outweigh the cost.
Alternatives and Comparisons
While the **Volquartsen TG9 Trigger Assembly for Ruger PC Carbine** is a top-tier option, it’s always prudent to consider alternatives. Other trigger upgrade options might be available. The primary factors influencing the decision are typically cost, desired pull weight, and the perceived reputation of the manufacturer.
Conclusion
The **Volquartsen TG9 Trigger Assembly for Ruger PC Carbine** is a worthwhile upgrade. It addresses the common complaint about the Ruger PC Carbine’s factory trigger, providing a significant improvement in trigger pull, reset, and overall shooting experience. The easy installation and high-quality construction make it an excellent choice for shooters of all levels.
If you seek a more precise, more reliable, and more enjoyable shooting experience, the Volquartsen TG9 is a strong contender. For those looking to maximize their Ruger PC Carbine’s potential, this upgrade is almost a must.
Consider this upgrade if you value accuracy, want improved control, and wish to enhance the speed of your follow-up shots. It is a worthwhile investment for those seeking to elevate their Ruger PC Carbine’s performance.
