Upgrading from a factory Blade or Scythe trigger to an aftermarket CNC aluminum Infamous Deuce, Exalt Killswitch, or Inception Designs Fang is one of the highest-impact ergonomic mods you can make on a Planet Eclipse marker. Yet every weekend at tournament tech tables, we see players mushroom out their grip frame pivot bores by hammering pins backward, crush delicate PCB microswitches by skipping the over-travel stop, or get penalized for involuntary recoil bounce. In our field tests and match clinics servicing everything from the Gtek 180R and Etha 3 to flagship CS3 and Ego LV2 platforms, following the correct armorer protocol to install trigger planet eclipse upgrades guarantees a crisp 0.9 mm throw and 100% NXL-legal 10.5 BPS ramping.
Key Technical Takeaways: How to Install Trigger Planet Eclipse
Before you install trigger planet eclipse shoes, identify your grip frame mounting system: flagship CS2/CS3/Geo 4/R5/LV2 markers use a modular 1-screw trigger carrier or 2-piece shoe clamp, whereas mid-tier Gtek 170R/180R and Etha 2/3/EMEK frames use a knurled steel pivot pin that must be drifted out from left to right. After installation, calibrate all four 5/64-inch and 1/16-inch hex set screws to maintain a 0.8–1.2 mm finger throw with a mandatory +0.4 mm post-travel stop buffer.
0.8–1.2 mm
At Lower Shoe Tip
≥ 0.25 mm
Hysteresis Differential
+0.35–0.50 mm
Protects PCB Switch
0.45–1.15 N
45g–115g Magnet/Spring
- Directional Pivot Pin Drift Rule (170R / 180R / Etha 3 / EMEK): The steel trigger pivot pin has directional knurling on its right end. Always push it out from left to right (breech view) using a 3/32-inch punch, and press it back in from right to left.
- Microswitch Over-Travel Protection: Set the lower 5/64-inch post-travel screw so it contacts the frame 0.4 mm after the microswitch clicks—never let the microswitch body act as your mechanical backstop.
- Fatal Pre-Travel Starvation Error: Turning the pre-travel screw too far clockwise holds the microswitch lever permanently depressed on boot-up, locking out firing until you restore ≥0.25 mm of reset clearance.
Trigger Kinematics & Leverage: How Planet Eclipse 5-Point Triggers Work
Unlike single-pivot budget triggers that wobble on a loose plastic bushing, aftermarket Planet Eclipse triggers rotate on dual ABEC-7 stainless steel ball bearings and use up to five independent adjustment grub screws. When you install trigger planet eclipse assemblies and calibrate their travel, you are governing three mechanical and electromechanical relationships:
- Lever-Arm Multiplication & Microswitch Hysteresis: On a Planet Eclipse circuit board, the sub-miniature Omron microswitch requires approximately 0.25 mm of plunger differential movement (Sswitch ≈ 0.25 mm) between its electrical make point (click) and its electrical break/reset point. Because the middle 1/16-inch activation screw sits 10 mm below the bearing pivot while your middle finger pulls near the bottom of the trigger shoe 38 mm below the pivot, geometric lever amplification dictates minimum finger travel: Sfinger = Sswitch × (Lfinger ÷ Lactuator) ≈ 0.25 mm × (38 mm ÷ 10 mm) ≈ 0.95 mm. If you choke total trigger travel below 0.60 mm, either the microswitch fails to reset between pulls or pneumatic recoil shakes the marker enough to cause paintball trigger bounce.
- Magnetic Repulsion vs. Conical Spring Return Force: As you release the shoe, return velocity must reset the trigger in under 18 milliseconds to sustain a 10.5 BPS NXL ramping cadence (95.2 ms cycle interval). Whether your marker uses a conical torsion/compression spring (170R/180R/Etha 3) or opposing Rare-Earth neodymium magnets (CS2/CS3/LV2 and magnet-modded 180Rs), total return force follows an inverse-square magnetic + linear spring curve: Freturn = (kspring × Δx) + [B2 × A ÷ (2 × μ0 × d2)] ≈ 0.45 N to 1.15 N (45 to 115 grams-force).
- Microswitch Lever vs. Optical Flag Interrupt (CS3 / Geo R5 / LV2): While Gtek and Etha boards rely exclusively on a mechanical microswitch, flagship CS3 Pro, Geo R5, and Ego LV2 boards let you toggle between a tactile microswitch and a zero-resistance infrared break-beam opto-sensor. When running optical mode, the activation screw positions the upper flag inside the IR beam gap.
Master Platform Matrix: Planet Eclipse Trigger Mounting & Hex Spec Lookup Table
Planet Eclipse utilizes three distinct trigger mounting architectures across its electronic and mechanical lineup. Verify your exact model below before starting your teardown:
| Planet Eclipse Platform | Mounting Architecture | Extraction / Install Method | Return & Switch Spec | Compatible Trigger Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gtek 180R & Gtek 170R Mid-tier aluminum frames |
Press-Fit Knurled Steel Pivot Pin (Left-to-Right Drift) | Remove 2× 5/32" frame bolts, lift frame 1 inch, drift pin out left-to-right with 3/32" punch | Conical Spring (or Magnet Mod) + Microswitch |
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| CS2, CS3, Geo 4, Geo R5 & Ego LV2 Flagship Shaft / Modular system |
Removable Top Carrier or 2-Piece Shoe Clamp Screw | Toolless / 1-screw shoe swap (5/64" clamp screw) or drop-out carrier (3/32" top screw) | Dual Neodymium Magnet + Spring + Opto/Switch |
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| Etha 2 & Etha 3 (Electronic) GRN composite grip frame |
Internal Trigger Carrier Box + Cross Pivot Pin | Open left grip, extract internal carrier or drift pivot pin left-to-right; transfer magnet/spring | Magnetic Return + Microswitch Actuation |
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| EMEK 100, Etha 3M & EMF100 Mechanical 3-way valve frames |
Mechanical Frame Pivot Pin + Sear/Valve Actuator Tip | Drift pivot pin out left-to-right; calibrate rear actuator screw against FL 3-way / Hair 45 pin | Mechanical Valve Pin + Torsion Return Spring |
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Step-by-Step Protocol: How to Install an Aftermarket Trigger on Planet Eclipse Markers
Whether you are performing Planet Eclipse Gtek 180R upgrades, dialing in a Gtek 170R, or customizing an Etha 3M / EMEK 100, follow this exact five-phase armorer sequence to install trigger planet eclipse upgrades cleanly in 10 minutes:
Phase 1: Depressurization & Grip Frame Isolation
Never attempt to drift a trigger pin or loosen carrier bolts while the marker is pressurized or powered on:
- Degas the Marker and Remove the 9V Battery: Unscrew your HPA tank, fire two clearing shots in a safe direction, and pop open the toolless front grip skin to remove the 9V battery (protecting the exposed PCB microswitch and optical sensors).
- For Flagship CS2 / CS3 / Geo 4 / R5 / LV2 Owners (2-Piece Shoe Swap): If you are installing a modular 2-piece trigger shoe (such as the Infamous Deuce or PE Blade/Scythe shoe), you do not even need to remove the grip frame! Simply insert a 5/64-inch hex key into the side clamping screw on the upper trigger base, slide the factory shoe off the dovetail rail, and slide your new shoe on. (If replacing the entire bearing base, remove the top 5/32-inch frame screws to access the top carrier screw.)
- For Gtek 170R / 180R / Etha 3 / EMEK Owners (Frame Separation): Remove the bolt assembly out the back. Using a 5/32-inch Allen wrench, unscrew the two main grip frame mounting bolts (one under the rear cap, one near the front trigger guard/foregrip). Lift the grip frame 1 inch away from the upper receiver body—taking care on older wired frames not to pull on the board harness (the 170R, 180R, CS2, and CS3 use wireless contact pads between frame and body).
Phase 2: Directional Pivot Pin Drift (Left-to-Right Rule)
On the Gtek 170R, Gtek 180R, Etha 2/3, EMEK 100, and EMF100, the trigger rotates on a press-fit stainless steel dowel pin that has raised knurled splines on one end:
- Push the Pin Out from LEFT to RIGHT: Hold the grip frame as if aiming downrange (viewing from the rear). Place the tip of a 3/32-inch Allen key or roll-pin punch against the left side of the trigger pivot pin and press or tap lightly so the pin exits out the right side of the frame. Driving the knurled end backward through the left side will gouge the anodized aluminum bore!
- Capture the Conical Return Spring: As you slide the stock trigger shoe out of the top of the frame slot, hold your thumb over the rear of the trigger to capture the miniature conical return spring (or magnetic return plunger on Etha 3 / magnet-modded frames).
Phase 3: Bearing Check, Spring/Magnet Transfer & Trigger Seating
Prepare your new aftermarket trigger before seating it into the frame channel:
- Back Out All Adjustment Grub Screws: Using your 5/64-inch and 1/16-inch hex keys, back the pre-travel, activation, and post-travel set screws out until their tips sit flush inside the trigger body. This prevents the new trigger from jamming against the microswitch during installation.
- Seat the Return Spring or Neodymium Magnet: Fit the wider base of the conical return spring into the frame pocket and seat the narrow tip over the spring post on the rear of your new trigger (or verify polarity on magnetic return kits so the two magnets repel each other).
- Press the Pivot Pin In from RIGHT to LEFT: Lower the new trigger into the top of the grip frame, align the dual ABEC-7 ball bearings with the frame holes, and insert the smooth end of the pivot pin into the right side of the frame, pressing it flush until the knurled right collar locks into place. Rebolt the grip frame onto the marker body using the two 5/32-inch mounting screws.
Phase 4: 4-Screw Precision Calibration (0.8–1.2 mm Tournament Throw)
Unlike a Dye Ultralite trigger adjustment where screws are accessed through the front face, Planet Eclipse triggers place their adjustment screws along the vertical spine of the trigger. Follow this exact order to install trigger planet eclipse settings without locking out your board:
- Step 1 — Set Resting Pre-Travel (Top 5/64" Screw): Insert a 5/64-inch hex key into the top-front pre-travel screw. Turn clockwise to move the resting position of the trigger rearward (shortening take-up) or counter-clockwise to move it forward. Leave at least 0.5 mm of forward free play before the switch clicks.
- Step 2 — Dial In the Activation Point (Middle 1/16" Screw): Power the board ON (with eyes OFF or in the Trigger Diagnostic screen). Using a 1/16-inch hex key, turn the middle activation screw clockwise in 1/8-turn increments until the microswitch clicks (or the optical sensor icon triggers) right at the middle of your finger pull. Crucial Check: Release the trigger very slowly to verify you hear the distinct “un-click” reset (≥0.25 mm hysteresis).
- Step 3 — Lock the Over-Travel Guard (Bottom 5/64" Screw): Pull the trigger back until the microswitch clicks, hold it there, and turn the bottom 5/64-inch post-travel screw clockwise until it touches the frame stop. Then back the screw out 1/4 to 1/2 turn counter-clockwise (+0.35 to 0.50 mm buffer). Now, when you walk the trigger aggressively, the steel grub screw absorbs the impact instead of crushing the microswitch.
- Step 4 — Tune Return Tension & Rake Angle (5/64" Screw): Adjust the spring/magnet tension screw until the shoe snaps forward with 0.65–0.95 N (65–95 grams) of authority. Apply a microscopic dab of removable Blue Loctite 242 to the threads once satisfied.
Phase 5: NXL Rule 7.2.1 Live-Air Spank Test & Debounce Verification
A trigger that feels hair-thin on the workbench with the air off will often bounce uncontrollably once 105–135 PSI bolt recoil shakes the marker in your hands:
- Perform the Referee Rear-ASA Spank Test: Air up the marker at the chronograph range with a barrel sock on initially, then point downrange and strike the back of the POPS ASA sharply with the palm of your hand (simulating NXL referee inspection). The marker must fire zero shots.
- Run the One-Pull Hold Test Under Live Paint: Fire 10 slow, deliberate single pulls with paint in the loader. If the marker double-fires on a single pull or fails to ramp smoothly to 10.5 BPS (check our paintball BPS & ROF tournament legality calculator), back the pre-travel screw out 1/4 turn to widen the stroke to 1.0 mm, or consult our dwell and debounce tuning guide to raise Switch Debounce by +1 increment.
NXL Rule 7.2.1 Trigger Bounce Penalty & ASTM Drop-Test Safety Mandate
Under NXL Tournament Rule 7.2.1, any marker that fires more than one shot per single trigger pull prior to engaging legal 5-BPS ramping (or exceeds 10.50 BPS on the chronograph) incurs an immediate gross major penalty and player elimination. Furthermore, under ASTM F1776 drop-safety standards, setting trigger pre-travel below 0.4 mm with zero return spring tension can cause an aired-up marker to discharge if bumped against a bunker. Always maintain at least 0.8 mm of total finger travel and ≥0.45 N of positive return preload.
Essential Aftermarket Triggers & Workbench Tools for Planet Eclipse Markers
Equip your pit kit with precision SAE hex keys and proven CNC billet triggers engineered specifically for Planet Eclipse frames:
| Trigger Upgrade / Armorer Tool | Performance Advantage on PE Frames | Platform & Hardware Spec | Direct Purchase Links |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infamous Paintball “Deuce” Trigger | Signature dual-curve two-finger profile with pre-installed ABEC-7 dual ball bearings | Fits 170R/180R, CS2/CS3/LV2, or Etha 3/EMEK |
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| Exalt Killswitch / Inception Fang Trigger | Ultra-light CNC 6061 aluminum blade with 5-point stainless set screws and zero side play | Available for Gtek 170R/180R, Etha 3 & EMEK 100 |
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| Bondhus SAE Precision Hex Key Set | Includes 1/16", 5/64", 3/32", and 5/32" keys for pin drifting, frame bolts, and grub screws | Protanium High-Torque Steel (0.050" to 3/8") |
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| Loctite 242 Removable Blue Threadlocker | Prevents 1/16" and 5/64" trigger adjustment grub screws from backing out under vibration | Medium-Strength Hand-Tool Removable (6 ml) |
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Video Walkthrough: Installing & Tuning a Planet Eclipse Aftermarket Trigger
Watch this step-by-step workbench demonstration showing how to separate the Planet Eclipse grip frame, drift the knurled trigger pin out from left to right, seat the return spring, and calibrate the 4-point adjustment screws:
Final Armorer Verdict: Tactile Feedback Beats Zero-Travel Hair Triggers
When players first install trigger planet eclipse upgrades like the Infamous Deuce or Inception Fang, the biggest temptation is tuning the stroke down to a 0.3 mm hair trigger. Under NXL 10.5 BPS ramping rules—and even in ICPL mechanical play—an ultra-short 0.3 mm throw causes premature switch starvation on cold mornings and recoil bounce penalties at the chrono tent. Instead, dial in a crisp 0.9 to 1.1 mm finger throw paired with a snappy 0.8 N magnetic or spring return so you can feel every single microswitch click off the break.
Always keep your ABEC-7 trigger bearings completely dry (dust + oil = grinding paste), and check your set-screw calibration over a radar chronograph before every tournament event.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planet Eclipse Trigger Installation
Which way do you push the trigger pin out on a Planet Eclipse Gtek 170R, 180R, Etha 3, or EMEK?
Hold the grip frame with the barrel pointing away from you (looking from the rear breech). Push the trigger pivot pin out from LEFT to RIGHT using a 3/32-inch punch. The right side of the steel pin features raised knurling that locks into the right frame wall; when reinstalling, insert the smooth end into the right side and press it in from RIGHT to LEFT.
Why won’t my Planet Eclipse marker fire (or why is the eye icon flashing) right after I install a new trigger?
Your pre-travel screw (5/64") or middle activation screw (1/16") is turned too far clockwise, holding the PCB microswitch closed (or blocking the optical sensor beam) before you even pull the trigger. As a safety feature, Planet Eclipse boards ignore a trigger that is held down continuously on power-up or Fails to reset between shots. Back the activation or pre-travel screw out 1/2 turn until you hear the switch click and un-click cleanly.
Are CS2, CS3, and LV2 triggers interchangeable with the Gtek 170R or 180R?
Standard one-piece Gtek 170R / 180R triggers mount directly onto a cross pivot pin and will NOT fit a CS2, CS3, Geo 4, or LV2 (unless you purchase a 2-piece modular trigger system like the Infamous Deuce where the removable lower shoe clamps onto a platform-specific upper bearing base). Always verify whether you are buying a “Shoe Only” or a complete “170R/180R Bearing Trigger” before ordering.
What Allen wrench sizes do I need to install trigger planet eclipse upgrades and adjust the set screws?
You need three SAE hex key sizes: a 5/32-inch Allen wrench for the two main grip frame mounting bolts, a 5/64-inch Allen wrench for the pre-travel, post-travel, spring return, and shoe clamp screws, and a 1/16-inch Allen wrench for the miniature microswitch activation point screw (plus a 3/32-inch key/punch for drifting the pivot pin).
Can I convert a spring-return Gtek 170R or 180R trigger to magnetic return?
Yes! Many aftermarket 170R/180R triggers (and drop-in magnetic mod kits) replace the stock conical steel spring with two opposing N52 neodymium magnets—one seated in the grip frame pocket and one threaded into the rear of the trigger shoe. Magnetic return eliminates metallic spring twang and gives the 180R the smooth, snappy feel of a flagship CS3.
Should I lubricate the ball bearings when I install trigger planet eclipse shoes?
Never apply thick Dow 33 grease or sticky oil to sealed ABEC-7 trigger bearings. Paintball grease traps silica field dust and dried shell powder inside the bearing shields, creating sluggish drag. Keep trigger bearings dry and blow them out with compressed air after muddy events.
While servicing your Planet Eclipse grip frame, complete your setup by following our armorer guide on POPS ASA maintenance to clean bonnet slide rails and replace internal seals.
