The FG-15 Trigger Crank: Pricey Throwback or Gimmick?

In the AR-15 world, where endless accessories and gadgets are up for grabs, some add-ons leave you scratching your head. From "can cannons" to the, let's call it, "anatomically inspired" foregrips, innovation in this space takes many forms. Enter the Freedom Ordnance FG-15—a hand-crank trigger attachment that aims to bring a bit of 19th-century Gatling magic to your 21st-century AR. But at $285, it might be worth asking: what does it really offer over other options?

FG-15 Crank: A Nostalgic Nod with a Steep Price

The FG-15 works simply enough: attach it to your AR-15, telescope the handle, crank it, and—voilà—a shot fires with each turn. There's a three-position handle, which goes from "Safe" to "Neutral" to "Fire." It's a nostalgic nod to the original Gatling gun, but with a price tag that’s a bit hard to justify.

Freedom Ordnance claims they didn’t skimp on quality, building it with nitride 4140 steel components, Japanese stainless ball bearings, and a hardened S7 trigger striker pin. All well and good, but these materials don’t change the basic functionality: it’s still a manually operated crank at heart. Yes, it fits most "AR/SR pattern rifles" (if they have a 1/4-28 thread pitch for the grip screw), and no, it’s not a permanent install. But once you move past the high-quality metalwork, the FG-15 is still a hand crank—and a $285 one at that.

The legality side is intriguing; Freedom Ordnance has ATF rulings plastered all over their posts to reassure buyers. Because it's manually operated, it’s legal under current laws. The FG-15 isn’t going to make your AR-15 fire like a machine gun; it just lets you crank out rounds as fast as your hand can spin the handle. Fun? Probably. But for a practical AR user, $285 could be spent more wisely.

Why GatCrank’s Turbo and Turbo XL are a Smarter Investment

If you're considering a hand-crank trigger actuator, there’s a good chance you’re looking for speed, performance, and a bit of fun on the range. And here's where the GatCrank Turbo ($80) and Turbo XL ($100) really shine. GatCrank's options bring a similar hand-crank experience at a fraction of the FG-15's cost, without skimping on quality, performance, or ease of use.

1. Cost-Effective Performance: At only $80 for the GatCrank Turbo and $100 for the Turbo XL, these options deliver rapid, smooth trigger responses without breaking the bank. Why pay $285 for the FG-15 when you could snag a GatCrank and still have enough left for more range ammo or even a whole new accessory?
2. Compatibility and Durability: GatCrank's Turbo XL model is designed for wider, non-mil-spec trigger guards, offering versatility across multiple platforms. Both the Turbo and Turbo XL models are crafted from high-grade aluminum, lightweight but durable enough for a range of shooting conditions. This versatility ensures that, whether your setup is mil-spec or not, there’s a GatCrank that’ll fit perfectly without costly modifications.
3. Precision Engineering for Rapid Fire: The GatCrank Turbo models are built for responsiveness and speed, allowing you to maximize your firing rate while maintaining accuracy. Each crank fires a shot with minimal resistance, thanks to the precise engineering that gives you control over firing speed, all while maintaining a seamless, uninterrupted flow. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about function and reliability.
4. Lightweight and Compact Design: Unlike the FG-15, which is heavier and slightly bulkier due to all that “premium steel,” GatCrank’s aluminum build keeps weight down and installation simple. Whether you’re at the range or in a competition setting, this compact design will make a difference.
5. Proudly Veteran-Owned and Operated: GatCrank isn't just another manufacturer pushing out parts; it’s a veteran-owned business that understands the value of high-quality, practical gear. When you invest in a GatCrank product, you’re not only getting exceptional performance at a fair price but also supporting a company rooted in experience and commitment to quality.

Final Thoughts: The Clear Winner

The FG-15 might be fun if you’re a collector or enthusiast looking for something unique. But for most AR-15 owners, GatCrank’s Turbo and Turbo XL offer the same thrill of hand-cranked firing without the overinflated price tag. With GatCrank, you get reliability, universal compatibility, and rapid-fire performance—all backed by a company that knows and respects the needs of gun owners. So if you’re in the market for a trigger crank, ask yourself this: do you want a nostalgic toy, or do you want real performance?

Check out GatCrank’s Turbo and Turbo XL at www.gatcrank.com, where you can find affordable, quality trigger actuators made by a veteran-owned company dedicated to delivering practical and reliable enhancements to your firearm.