Trigger lock

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Trigger lock on a revolver

Close-up of the trigger lock, showing the warning

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A trigger lock is a device designed to prevent a firearm from being discharged while the device is in place. Generally, two pieces come together from either side behind the trigger and are locked in place, which can be unlocked with a key or combination. This physically prevents the trigger from being pulled to discharge the weapon. Other types of trigger locks do not go behind the trigger, but encompass the full area behind the trigger guard making the trigger inaccessible.

There is controversy surrounding manufacturing standards, usage, and legislation of trigger locks. Critics of trigger locks point to demonstrations that some models can be removed by children with very little force and common household tools.^[1] They also point out that a trigger lock will increase the time it takes a gun owner to respond to a self-defense emergency. There are no universal standards for the design or testing of trigger locks. Some jurisdictions, such as the state of California, maintain a short list of approved trigger lock devices.^[2]

In Canada, a trigger lock is one of the methods prescribed by law to secure a firearm during transport or storage.^[3]