A protective guard for use on a pneumatic tool known as a board file which includes a handle assembly and a board assembly that reciprocates back and forth relative to the handle assembly. The board assembly is held together by a nut and bolt located near each end thereof, and the handle assembly consists of a front handle and a rear handle mounted on a housing. A pinch point exists between a forward end of the housing and the forwardmost nut and bolt that holds the board assembly together. The protective guard is mounted on the handle assembly and prevents injury to an operator by preventing his fingers or the side of his hand from inadvertently slipping into this pinch point. A platform on the protective guard covers the forwardmost nut and bolt as the board assembly reciprocates relative to the handle assembly.
