Trigger (firearms) facts for kids

A trigger is a part of a machine that you push or pull to make it work. On a firearm, the trigger is the part you pull with your index finger to make it shoot. Triggers are usually small levers or buttons.

What is a Trigger?

A trigger is like a special switch that starts an action. Think of it as the "go" button for a machine. When you press or pull a trigger, it tells the machine to do something, like release energy or start a process. It's a very important part because it gives the user control over when the machine operates.

How Triggers Work

Most triggers work by releasing a stored force or activating a mechanism. Imagine a toy car that you pull back to wind up. The trigger on a firearm works in a similar way: when you pull it, it releases a spring-loaded part that then causes the firearm to shoot. The design of triggers can be simple or very complex, depending on what the machine needs to do.

Different Kinds of Triggers

Triggers are not just found on firearms. Many different kinds of tools and devices use triggers to start their actions.

Triggers on Firearms

On firearms, triggers are designed to be pulled by a finger. Some firearms have triggers that do one thing with one pull, while others might have triggers that can do different things depending on how you pull them. For example, some triggers can allow for a single shot or a continuous stream of shots. The way a trigger feels and works is very important for how a firearm is used.

Triggers on Other Devices

You can find triggers on many everyday items. For instance:

• A spray bottle has a trigger you squeeze to spray water.
• Many power tools, like drills or saws, have triggers that you press to turn them on.
• Even some video game controllers have trigger buttons that you press to perform actions in a game.

In all these cases, the trigger is the main control that starts the device's action.

Safety and Triggers

Because triggers are designed to start actions, it's very important to use them carefully and responsibly. When handling any device with a trigger, especially one that can be dangerous, always make sure you understand how it works and follow all safety rules. This helps prevent accidents and ensures that the device is only used when intended.

Images for kids

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  Thompson submachine gun trigger

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  The double-crescent trigger on the MG 34, which allowed for different types of firing without a separate switch.

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  Trigger mechanism in a bolt action rifle

See also

In Spanish: Gatillo para niños