My 5906 has the square trigger guard, and I have seen others with the round trigger guard.

What was the history behind the two diferent designs, and which one came first?
Is one preferred over the other?

Thanks,
Leon

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686, 4006, 5906

I was told by a S&W LE rep that the square trigger guard was created for barricade shooting (as in pressing the gun forward and resting it against something). But I personally believe it was simply a matter of aesthetics (and the times). Some people seem to prefer the round trigger guards but either way you are getting an excellent handgun.

After I bought my G19, I decided it would look better with a rounded guard so I took it to the belt sander.....my 5906 is a gift from a good bud, so I don't dare make that mod to it.....
To me, it makes no difference while you're shooting it.
BTW...I enjoy shooting it (5906) more than the 19....

The square trigger guard was more "in vogue" at the time the early 5906 came out. Most handguns that came out during the early to mid 1980's (Beretta 92F, Glock, etc.) had a trigger guard with a "hook" on the front, in the theory of providing a more secure place for the index finger for the "finger forward" two hand hold that was popular at the time.

It's a bitch finding holsters for the earlier square guard guns.

Square trigger guards were designed in response to the support hand finger forward methods that were being taught at the time. This involved placing the supporting hand index finger on the front of the trigger guard. This never really caught on so, I'm guessing they went back to round. You'll still see some of the round trigger guards with serrations for this purpose (like the Glock above your 5906 there).

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N.R.A. BENEFACTOR Member

You'll find the square guards showing up about halfway through the second generation run full sized 9s' in the mid-80s'. Then switching to the round guard by '93 or so. Late second generation guns like the 469/669 and 645 only came with square guards. I use a forward finger hold but really don't notice the difference between the two as long as there is some checkering up there.

I discussed this very que with a 'gunshow junkie' I know that claims the sq gaurd is that way for a reason - useing the pistol as a 'club' as in pistol-whip.
I didn't dispute as it's obvious that point would sure create pain with a good lick to a perp's scalp.
but myself I'm convinced it was the finger forward shooting grip - which I definitely favor. just my preference.

Another question on this pistol, is there what looks like an upside down "T" on the upper, forward, left hand side of the trigger guard, what, if any, meaning is there to this marking?

Thanks,
Leon

__________________
686, 4006, 5906

The "T" (or "P" on earlier ones) means that it has been test fired. It's an inspectors stamp.

Thank you very much for answering this question.
I appreciate that!

Leon

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686, 4006, 5906