The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word TRIGGERS
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
T
R
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G
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "They cause firing" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case they cause firing = triggers.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does TRIGGERS mean?
TRIGGERS noun- A finger-operated lever used to fire a gun.
- A similar device used to activate any mechanism.
- An event that initiates others, or incites a response.
- A concept or image that upsets somebody.
- An event, experience or other stimulus that initiates a traumatic memory or action in a person.
- An electronic transducer allowing a drum, cymbal, etc. to control an electronic drum unit or similar device.
- A device that manually lengthens (or sometimes shortens) the slide or tubing of a brass instrument, allowing the pitch range to be altered while playing.
- A pulse in an electronic circuit that initiates some component.
- An SQL procedure that may be initiated when a record is inserted, updated or deleted; typically used to maintain referential integrity.
- A text string that, when received by a player, will cause the player to execute a certain command.
- A catch to hold the wheel of a carriage on a declivity.
- To fire a weapon.
- To initiate something.
- To spark a response, especially a negative emotional response, in (someone).
- To activate; to become active.