Single/Two Stage trigger on an AR?

[Bullard4075]

I finally bought an AR. A Ruger SR556 to be precise. Let's not get into why. OK, my son in law is a LEO and he shamed me into it. Happy. His duty AR (top of the line) is hefty, smooth and has more switches and attachments than a 57 Caddy. Back to my problem. I have never been interested in these toys after qualifying with one in the Air Force years ago. There was the one (heavy match barrel and "tuned") a friend lent me for a prairie dogs shoot in NE Montana that was distinctly different from the light weight,generic toy. That one was a joy. This used Ruger I bought is heavier than I remember and the trigger is abominable. Mil spec I'm told and two stage. I'm guessing just shy of 8 pounds. Two stage I can live with but the pull is like dragging a bag of rocks over asphalt. Looking for a replacement I come to the question of single or two stage trigger. To be honest at first thought I have never used a two stage but then DUH I remembered my M1 Garand. I have researched the differences of one stage/two stage triggers and found it to be mostly opinion. I am asking for yours as it pertains to an AR.
Bullard

[jeepnik]

The M16 you used in the USAF, was an M16 or an M16 A1?

In basic we had M16A1 (E), it’s been over fifty years so I’m not absolutely sure about the E suffix. Later overseas I was issued an M16 a total thing that tried real hard to get me killed.

[Pisgah]

If it has that "drag thru" feel, that's a GI trigger, not a 2-stage. Get something like a Rock River Arms Match 2-stage and you'll see a world of difference. Weightless take-up, followed by a crisp 3.5-4 pound clean break.

[vancelw]

A 2-stage trigger is the way to go!
If you have an 8 pound pull on a 2-stage trigger, something is wrong.
The 1st stage essentially removes the safety and leaves the 2nd stage as a very light trigger.
Someone will miss interpret that and argue.
I have all Rock River 2-stage triggers on most of my ARs.

[GunnyMack]

I put Giselle triggers on mine, very smooth and its not noticeable taking up the 1st stage and that glass rod break 2nd.

[6pt-sika]

I put Giselle triggers on mine, very smooth and its not noticeable taking up the 1st stage and that glass rod break 2nd.

Yes I bought Giselle triggers and put in two of the AR-15 lowers I had and the AR-10 lower I had . Will say I had a Stag Arms AR-15 that the factory trigger was good enough .

[1894cfan]

Yes, there are aftermarket triggers available in the 3.5-4 pd category that will suite your needs. I went with Rise Armament for mine. FYI, get ready to spend around $100 or more for them though, but well worth it! HTH