AS Designs ARC-Fire V2 — Complete Guide (2026)
AS Designs ARC-Fire V2
Complete Guide (2026)
Everything you need to know about the ARC-Fire V2 — how Active Reset Clutch technology works, how it compares to traditional FRTs and Super Safety kits, full platform and trigger compatibility, and where to buy from an authorized dealer.
No FFL required · Ships April 15, 2026 · One of 5 Authorized AS Designs Dealers
What Is Active Reset Clutch (ARC) Technology?
A new category of trigger system — not a drop-in FRT, not a binary trigger
The Active Reset Clutch (ARC) is AS Designs' patent-pending mechanism that forces your trigger to reset mechanically after every shot. Unlike a traditional forced reset trigger that replaces your entire fire control group, the ARC system integrates with your existing trigger group through the selector position — making it fundamentally different in both design and capability.
Here's how it works in simple terms: when you fire a round, the bolt carrier group travels rearward. In a standard trigger this rearward movement resets the trigger — but at the shooter's pace. The ARC cam, driven by the selector mechanism, forces the trigger reset to happen immediately and mechanically, faster than any shooter's finger can follow. The result is dramatically increased cyclic rate with one round per trigger function, every time.
The Three Things That Make ARC Different
- Selector-based, not FCG-based — the ARC system is integrated into the selector assembly, not the trigger group. Your existing trigger stays in place.
- Multi-platform by design — because it works through the selector rather than replacing the FCG, it can be adapted to 10+ platforms with platform-specific kits.
- Modular — when AS Designs adds support for new platforms, you buy the slip trip kit, not a new trigger system.
ARC-Fire V2 vs Traditional FRT Triggers
Same end result — dramatically different engineering approach
Both systems produce rapid, semi-automatic fire with one round per trigger function. The difference is how they achieve it and what that means for your build.
| Feature | ARC-Fire V2 | Traditional FRT |
|---|---|---|
| System type | Selector-based clutch | Drop-in trigger group replacement |
| Replaces existing trigger | No — works with your FCG | Yes — full replacement |
| Platform compatibility | 10+ platforms natively or with kits | Primarily AR-15 |
| Trigger quality matters | Yes — your trigger pull still felt | Mostly replaced by FRT feel |
| Selector positions | Safe · Semi · ARC | Safe · Semi · Fire |
| Material (critical parts) | M2 tool steel, DLC coated | Varies by manufacturer |
| Modularity | Add platform kits as released | Platform-specific purchase |
| Installation complexity | Gunsmith recommended | Drop-in, DIY friendly |
| FFL required | No | No |
| Price | $249.99 | Varies — $299–$500+ |
Bottom line: If you want the simplest path to forced reset on an AR-15 and don't need multi-platform support, a traditional FRT like the Partisan Disruptor is the more straightforward choice. If you want multi-platform flexibility, you care about the quality of your existing trigger pull, or you're running a non-AR-15 platform, the ARC-Fire V2 is the stronger system.
ARC-Fire V2 vs Hoffman Tactical Super Safety
Two different performance goals — not direct competitors
The Hoffman Tactical Super Safety is a trigger enhancement kit — not a forced reset system. It dramatically improves your existing trigger's reset feel, pull weight, and consistency. The ARC-Fire V2 adds forced reset capability. These products solve different problems.
Choose ARC-Fire V2 if...
You want maximum cyclic rate. You're building specifically for forced reset performance. You run multiple platforms. You want the fastest possible follow-up shots.
Choose Super Safety if...
You want a dramatically better trigger feel without changing your FCG. You want improved reset without forced reset. You're optimizing for precision and control rather than maximum speed.
They can also be run together — the Super Safety improves the feel of the underlying trigger group that the ARC-Fire V2 works with. If your trigger is compatible with both, combining them gives you the best possible trigger feel alongside forced reset performance.
What's New in the V2
Four specific engineering changes from AS Designs — not marketing language
Official V2 Changes (per AS Designs)
- Different selector orientations available — three throw configurations (0°/45°/90°, 0°/45°/180°, 0°/90°/180°) versus a single option on V1. Choose the angle that matches your shooting style.
- Smoother detent track — refined geometry produces more positive tactile feedback and cleaner transitions between Safe, Semi, and ARC, especially under stress and rapid selector movement.
- Larger cam surfaces — increased contact area on the ARC Cam improves mechanical leverage and reset reliability across different trigger pull weights and BCG velocities. This directly addresses the most common V1 complaint about reset consistency.
- Mil-spec selectors included stock — both primary and ambi selector levers ship in the box. What you see in the product photos is exactly what arrives.
Materials & Build Quality
M2 tool steel with DLC coating on every critical component
The three critical components of the ARC system — the Cam, Lever, and Detent Bar — are all machined from M2 tool steel and finished with DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating. M2 is a high-speed steel alloy used in cutting tools and industrial dies — it holds up under thermal stress and resists wear at sustained cyclic rates in a way that MIM or cast components do not.
The selector levers (both primary and ambi) are 4140 steel with black oxide finish — also a serious material specification, not a budget steel. Every component in the box is built to run hard and last.
| Component | Material | Finish |
|---|---|---|
| ARC Cam | M2 Tool Steel | DLC Coated |
| ARC Lever | M2 Tool Steel | DLC Coated |
| ARC Detent Bar | M2 Tool Steel | DLC Coated |
| Primary Selector | 4140 Steel | Black Oxide |
| Ambi Selector | 4140 Steel | Black Oxide |
| Pre-cut trigger | Included | — |
| Safety detent | Included | — |
Variants & Selector Options
4 configurations — kit type and selector throw angle
Ambi Kit
0° / 45° / 90°
$249.99
Ambi Kit
0° / 45° / 180°
$249.99
Ambi Kit
0° / 90° / 180°
$249.99
Non-Ambi Kit
0° / 90° / 180°
$249.99
How to Choose Your Variant
Two decisions — kit type first, selector angle second
Step 1: Ambi or Non-Ambi?
If you run a standard right-handed setup and your lower isn't cut for an ambi selector, choose the Non-Ambi Kit. It's simpler, more compact, and works perfectly for the vast majority of AR-15 builds. If you shoot left-handed, or you run an ambi safety and want bilateral control on the ARC selector, choose the Ambi Kit.
Step 2: Which Selector Angle?
Platform Compatibility
10+ platforms — more than any other ARC-type system on the market
Coming soon: BRN-180, JAKL-10 (.308), UMP (.45), GHM9, APC9, APC45, MCX (.277/.308), and SCAR. Platform-specific slip trip kits required — the core ARC-Fire V2 unit does not need to be repurchased when new kits release.
Trigger Compatibility
Requires a selector shelf (SS) cut — most mil-spec triggers qualify
| Trigger | Models | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Mil-Spec FCG | Standard mil-spec trigger groups | ✓ Compatible |
| Geissele | SSA, SSA-E, SSA-E X, SSA-X, SD-E, SD3G, SDC, SSP, S3G, G2S | ✓ Compatible *lever blocker may be needed |
| ALG Defense | QMS, ACT | ✓ Compatible |
| BCM PNT | PNT | ✓ Compatible |
| PSA EPT | Enhanced Polished Trigger | ✓ Compatible |
| Aero Precision FCG | Standard FCG | ✓ Compatible |
| CMMG FCG | Standard FCG | ✓ Compatible |
| Anderson Stainless | Cut Hammer version only | ✓ Compatible *lever blocker may be needed |
| LaRue MBT-2S | MBT-2S | ✗ Incompatible |
| CMC Single Stage | Flat / Curved | ✗ Incompatible |
| Rise Armament RA-140 | RA-140 | ✗ Incompatible |
If your trigger isn't on the compatible or incompatible list, contact us before ordering — we'll verify compatibility with AS Designs directly. Don't guess on this one.
Installation
Selector timing and trigger group interaction — not a 5-minute job
AS Designs recommends installation by a qualified gunsmith. The ARC-Fire V2 is not a drop-in trigger — it involves replacing your selector assembly and timing the ARC cam correctly with your trigger group. Incorrect installation can cause malfunctions including failure to reset, failure to fire, or unintended selector behavior.
If you're experienced with AR-15 lower assembly, selector installation, and trigger timing you'll likely be comfortable. If you have any doubt — get it done by a gunsmith. A $50-100 installation fee is nothing compared to a malfunctioning trigger on a $250 system.
Note on lever blocker: Some Geissele and Anderson triggers require an additional lever blocker part to prevent over-travel. AS Designs will offer these in metal and will provide the STL file for those who prefer to print one. Contact us if you need one — we'll have details as they're released.
Legality
One round per trigger function — designed to comply with federal law
The ARC-Fire V2 is engineered to fire one round per trigger function, consistent with the semi-automatic definition upheld in Cargill v. Garland (U.S. Supreme Court, 2024). It is not classified as a machine gun under the current federal statutory framework.
State law is a separate matter entirely. We do not ship to California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Nevada, New York, Oregon, or Rhode Island. Orders placed from restricted states will be cancelled and refunded.
For the full FRT and ARC legal landscape including ongoing litigation see our complete FRT legal guide. Consult your own legal counsel regarding your state's specific statutes before purchasing. We are not lawyers and this is not legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ARC and FRT?
An FRT (forced reset trigger) replaces your entire fire control group with a new trigger assembly. The ARC-Fire V2 keeps your existing trigger group and adds a selector-based clutch mechanism that forces the reset. Both fire one round per trigger function. The ARC approach offers broader platform compatibility and works alongside your existing trigger — the FRT approach is simpler to install and more self-contained.
Can the ARC-Fire V2 and Super Safety be used together?
Potentially yes — if your trigger is compatible with both systems. The Super Safety improves the feel of the underlying trigger group that the ARC-Fire V2 works with. Contact us before combining both systems to verify compatibility with your specific trigger and lower.
What does "selector shelf cut" mean and does my trigger have one?
The selector shelf cut (SS cut) is a small notch machined into the trigger that allows the selector to rotate fully without contacting the trigger. Most mil-spec triggers have this cut from the factory. If you're running a Geissele, ALG, BCM PNT, PSA EPT, Aero Precision, or CMMG trigger you almost certainly have it. LaRue MBT-2S, CMC Single Stage, and Rise RA-140 do not have it and are incompatible.
Which ARC-Fire V2 selector angle should I choose?
The 0°/90°/180° is the closest to traditional mil-spec and the best default choice for most shooters. The 0°/45°/90° is the fastest — shortest throw to ARC position, popular with competition shooters. The 0°/45°/180° is a middle ground. All three are mechanically identical in ARC function — the difference is only in the throw angle.
Is the ARC-Fire V2 legal?
Under federal law, yes — it fires one round per trigger function consistent with Cargill v. Garland (2024). State laws vary. We do not ship to CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, HI, IL, MA, MD, MN, NJ, NV, NY, OR, or RI. Always verify your state's laws before purchasing.
Do I need an FFL to buy the ARC-Fire V2?
No. The ARC-Fire V2 is a trigger accessory, not a firearm. It ships directly to your address with no FFL transfer required.
When does the ARC-Fire V2 ship?
Orders ship starting April 15, 2026. We are one of five authorized AS Designs dealers nationwide.
What platforms will be supported in the future?
AS Designs has confirmed BRN-180, JAKL-10, UMP, GHM9, APC9, APC45, MCX (.277/.308), and SCAR are all in final development. Each will require a platform-specific slip trip kit — the core ARC-Fire V2 unit does not need to be repurchased.
Ready to Order?
One of 5 authorized AS Designs dealers. All 4 variants in stock. Ships April 15, 2026. No FFL required.
Authorized AS Designs dealer · No FFL required · Ships direct · Pacific Northwest