The Needle Guard should be adjusted with its rear edge flush with the rear edge of the Needle. Its purpose is to prevent the Needle from being caught by the hook of the Latch Hook. If the Guard is set too far back it can prevent the hook from catching the thread as it passes the Needle.

Some Needle Guards perform two functions. They have a hole or groove that the Needle slides through, and a Latch Opener. The Latch Opener should be kept sharp and smooth; but not as sharp as a cutting edge. Never use a Needle that is too large for the groove of the Needle Guard. Some Needle Guards have replaceable guard pieces that mate to a Guard Holder.