VEX RXM Installation Guide for Ruger RXM

Ruger RXM VEX Trigger Installation Guide

Thanks for purchasing the VEX Trigger for the Ruger RXM. This guide covers the basic installation process and component overview. 

Kit Contents

Your kit includes:

• Pre-assembled VEX trigger system
• Alternate connector (+ or - depending on configuration)
• Blue increased power trigger return spring
• Reduced power firing pin safety spring
• Enhanced firing pin safety
• Hex wrench
• Three striker springs:
• Yellow = 5 lb
• Orange = 4.5 lb
• Green = 4 lb

Slide Disassembly

  1. Verify the firearm is unloaded.
  2. Remove the slide from the frame.
  3. Remove the back plate and striker assembly.
  4. Depress the firing pin safety and remove the extractor.
  5. Remove the factory firing pin safety and spring.
  6. Install the supplied firing pin safety and reduced power spring.
  7. Reinstall the extractor and verify proper function.

Striker Spring Installation

  1. Remove the factory striker spring.
  2. Install your desired spring:
    • Yellow = 5 lb
    • Orange = 4.5 lb
    • Green = 4 lb
  3. Reinstall spring cups.
  4. Ensure the spring end coil is not positioned directly over the seam where the spring cups meet.
  5. Reassemble the striker and reinstall the back plate.

Frame Disassembly

  1. Remove the rear frame pin.
  2. Depress the slide catch spring and remove the slide catch.
  3. Rotate and remove the chassis retention screw.
  4. Lift out the locking block.
  5. Remove the trigger pin.
  6. Separate the chassis legs slightly and remove the complete trigger assembly.

Connector Change (Optional)

If changing connectors:

  1. Remove the trigger bar from the housing.
  2. Remove the installed connector.
  3. Install the alternate connector.
  4. Reassemble the trigger bar into the housing.

Reassembly

  1. Install the VEX trigger assembly into the chassis.
  2. Reinstall the locking block.
  3. Install the trigger pin and verify it is fully captured.
  4. Reinstall the chassis into the frame.
  5. Reinstall the slide catch, ensuring the notch faces toward you when viewed from the left side of the pistol.
  6. Reinstall the frame pins.
  7. Verify the slide catch spring is positioned on top of the pin. If installed incorrectly, the pistol may lock open after every shot.
  8. Reinstall the chassis retention screw.
  9. Reinstall the slide.

Function Check

After assembly:

• Rack the slide several times
• Verify trigger movement is smooth
• Verify trigger reset is positive
• Verify firing pin safety operation
• Perform all standard safety checks before live fire

Important Notes

• The RXM frame pins can be very tight. This is normal.
• Be careful not to launch the slide catch spring during disassembly.
• Always verify the slide catch spring is correctly positioned during reassembly.
• If you have questions, refer to the RXM FAQ or contact support through the website chat.

FAQs

Q. Which striker spring should I use?

  • Yellow (5 lb): Recommended for duty, carry, and defensive use.
  • Orange (4.5 lb): Balanced option with a lighter pull.
  • Green (4 lb): Lightest option. Intended for competition or range use with reliable ammunition.

Q. Which connector should I use?

The pre-installed connector is recommended for most shooters. The included alternate connector is provided so you can fine-tune trigger feel and pull weight to your preference.

Q. My frame pins are extremely tight. Is that normal?

Yes. Ruger RXM frame pins can be very tight from the factory. Use proper punches and support the frame while removing the pins.

Q. My slide locks back after every shot.

The slide catch spring is likely installed incorrectly. Verify that the spring is seated on top of the trigger pin during reassembly.

Q. My trigger doesn't reset after installation.

Ensure:

  • The trigger return spring is installed correctly.
  • The trigger bar is properly seated in the housing.
  • The connector is fully seated.
  • The chassis is completely installed and pinned.

Perform a full function check before live fire.

Q. My trigger pull feels heavier than expected.

This is usually caused by:

  • Using the heavier striker spring.
  • Normal break-in of new components.
  • Insufficient lubrication on the connector or trigger bar engagement surfaces.

Q. Can I dry fire after installation?

Yes. Dry fire is recommended to verify proper trigger function and reset before live fire.

Q. Do I need to lubricate anything?

Apply a small amount of quality firearm lubricant to:

  • Connector where it contacts the trigger bar
  • Trigger bar engagement surfaces
  • Firing pin safety

Avoid excessive lubrication.

Q. I'm getting light primer strikes.

If using the lighter (orange or green) striker springs, switch to the yellow 5 lb spring for maximum ignition reliability, especially with hard primers.

Q. I'm not comfortable installing it myself.

We recommend having the installation performed by a qualified gunsmith if you are unfamiliar with firearm disassembly and function testing.