Companies and Brands

New Gun Folds Like a Smartphone

Paul Ausick

Published: March 31, 2016 7:50 am

Last Updated: January 13, 2020 11:19 am

A company named Ideal Conceal is preparing to release its first product: a double-barreled, two-shot .380 caliber pistol that folds up to resemble a smartphone. The handgun is set to go on sale in mid-2016 at a list price of $395.

The company touts the pistol as being able easily to “blend in with today’s environment. In its locked position it will be virtually undetectable because it hides in plain sight.”

Carrying a concealed weapon (concealed carry, in the popular lingo) is governed by laws that differ from state to state. Seven states currently allow concealed carry with no restrictions or permits: Alaska, Arizona, Kansas, Maine, Vermont, West Virginia and Wyoming. Idaho’s unrestricted concealed carry rule goes into effect on July 1, and Arkansas currently has an unrestricted concealed carry law that is being disputed.

The law varies in other states, with most requiring a license to carry a concealed weapon, subject only to the terms specified in the law (known as “shall-issue” jurisdictions). In some states, licenses are also required, but local law enforcement agencies may exercise their discretion in issuing a license (known as “may-issue” jurisdictions). Wikipedia has a complete list, by state, but anyone seeking a concealed carry permit should check with state and local authorities for definitive information.

The Republican party in Texas has decided to allow attendees to carry either concealed or visible weapons at the state’s convention in May. The U.S. Secret Service has barred either open or concealed carry weapons at the national convention in Cleveland, but some 45,000 people have signed a petition to allow open carry.