Definition: A trigger guard is a simple innovation, but an important one. Most gun triggers are fairly delicate, and aren't built nearly as ruggedly as other exposed portions of the firearm. This makes it desirable to protect triggers from damage, using a trigger guard.
A trigger guard also helps prevent the trigger from being accidentally bumped or nudged, which may cause the gun to fire at a time when that might not be the best thing.
Trigger guards vary in material and appearance, but they all have one thing in common - they guard triggers. They simply form a kind of a loop around the trigger. Most guns have them, and they may be made of metal, plastic, or just about any suitable material.
To operate the trigger on a firearm with a trigger guard, simply place your finger inside it in front of the trigger, place your finger on the trigger, and do your thing.
Pronunciation: trig-ur gard
Examples: A trigger guard was not used on some of Sam Colt's earliest revolvers, which made them much less practical than they should have been.
