Binary trigger is a useful yet sometimes controversial feature included in modern AEGs. It can also be added in as an upgrade. Once activated, it replaces the standard semi-automatic fire mode.
🎓 Binary triggers in airsoft allow the replica to fire 2 BBs per trigger pull: first when pulling the trigger, second when releasing it.
Binary triggers in airsoft are the same as those in real steel firearms – a function allowing the replica to fire a shot when pulling the trigger and another when releasing it. This feature is available on modern AEGs like the Novritsch SSR9, SSR4, SSR90, and SSR63 A1 and A2 variants – out of the box.
Binary Trigger Benefits
When used correctly, a binary trigger can make you way more efficient in CQB. Moreover, the fact that you send out twice the amount of BBs makes it very satisfying. If you ever played with the AN94 in Battlefield 4, you know the feeling… If not, read what Tallmios said.
Increased Rate of Fire
The binary trigger allows you to fire off multiple rounds with every pull. This type of rapid-fire trigger neutralizes the limitations you have to contend with when in semi-automatic mode, masking any technical deficiency or hardware shortcomings.
If you have more basic replicas that are missing more high-end features, it will help you match your opponents’ speed with superior AEGs and/or HPA rigs. Combining binary triggers with a solid base setup and a quick finger may enable you to exceed the rate of fire of some more low-end AEGs.
Easy Activation
Many popular airsoft replicas already have the binary trigger built into their Electronic Trigger Units (ETUs).
If you don’t know whether your gun has it, check the web for the exact type. The activation procedure of Binary Trigger may differ, but NOVRITSCH replicas use a simple audio procedure. Using the SSR4 as an example, let us demonstrate how to turn on Binary Trigger on an airsoft gun:
- Set the fire selector to semi-auto.
- Pull and hold the trigger until you hear two long beeps.
- Pull and hold the trigger when you hear one short beep to confirm you want to explore semi-auto modes. Two short beeps will let you program the 3-round burst mode on auto, while three beeps will take you to the pre-cocking menu.
- Wait for a long beep to know your replica received your command.
- Pull and hold the trigger when you hear two short beeps for binary mode on semi-auto.
- Wait for two long beeps to finish programming.
Binary Trigger Drawbacks
On the other hand, not all airsofters fancy the binary triggers. There are a few reasons.
Accelerated Wear and Tear
Relying heavily on binary triggers will wear out your internal components faster in the long run. Expect some of your replica’s internal components — like the motor and ETU.
When you have a gun build with this out of the box, it is mostly not a big deal since the developers expected you to use that feature. However, if you got the binary trigger as a part of a homemade upgrade, this might cause some trouble down the line.
Tricky Single Tapping
The binary function helps improve your target hit probability, but what if you hit your target first shot? When you release the trigger, the second BB may needlessly land on the eliminated opponent. This naturally causes overshooting.
For that reason, some fields consider it too dangerous for CQB and straight up ban the use of a Binary Trigger. Not ideal if you just got yourself a shiny new gun with a Binary Trigger.
Others may consider it overkill — especially if you have a stronger gun — because you may cause unnecessary pain to another player after lowering their guard. You can point your airsoft gun away to protect your “dead” target, but the stray projectile can still hurt someone.
Is Binary Trigger Use Legal in Airsoft?
The binary function is legal in airsoft until it’s not.
For example, German gun laws categorize replicas with a muzzle energy greater than 0.5 Joules as air rifles — not toy guns — so they must be incapable of fully automatic fire. The special “F” marking on these replicas indicates they lack full-auto convertibility and support for binary functionality. That’s why the SSR4 variant in Germany is only available in semi-auto, whose ETU is unprogrammable.
Furthermore, field owners who impose ROF restrictions in the name of parity may prevent players from using this firing mode. Indoor sites that have a semi-only regulation may ban binary-trigger shooters because of the unfair advantage their firepower gives them, so talk to field owners beforehand.
Our Guns with Binary Triggers
What is your opinion on Binary? Should it be allowed, or is it unnecessary? Anyways most of our AEG replicas run it anyway. You can check them out here:
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