What is a swing guard?

[Pelikan]

I'm sure this is a stupid question, but what is the function of a swinf guard?

 

[sogflash]

I'm not sure, but I think it's a folding/auto knife where the guard lays on the side of the knife and when the knife is opened, the guard will get in the right place.

I don't know if my explanation made any sense.

edited: like the one in this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btsomQ1vJVM

 

[Pelikan]

I figured it was just for auto knives, but I know Queen and others make it on a traditional folder.

 

[marcinek]

Same function as any other guard.

 

[yablanowitz]

Like any other guard, it serves to keep your fingers away from the sharp edge. The advantage of the swing guard over a fixed guard is the elimination of those points sticking out when the knife is folded for carry.