Synonym for start gun

[blimp]

Sir! Madam!

I have a question: is start gun a synonym of something? The device you use to let the horses loose at the start of a horse race. Or human beings, not of a horse race. Or... I don't know, toads. Or zebras.

Many thanks in advance.

J.A., Tampere, Finland

 

[billmcd]

I have seen the similar term, "starter pistol".

 

[richuk]

I have seen the similar term, "starter pistol".

Yes I think starting pistol is used more often than starting gun but not 100% sure.

Not a teacher