A welding system having a welding gun with a self-contained trigger and trigger locking assembly. The self-contained trigger and trigger locking assembly has a trigger that is pivoted to operate the power source. The self-contained trigger and trigger locking assembly has a movable stem that pivots with the trigger and a stem receiving portion that is operable to receive the stem. The stem receiving portion acts to restrict pivotal movement of the stem so to maintain the trigger pivoted in position to continue operation of the power source.