Tear Gas Pen Gun: Sign on the Dotted Line

If you look in the top drawer of your desk, I bet you’ll find an assortment of pens — if you’re like me you have no pens, because somehow they get lost regularly. Which makes a pretty good argument for why I have no business carrying this as a concealed firearm. Pen guns are exactly what they sound like — just make sure to separate the words or else people may think you’re talking about everyone’s favorite bird. These guns are made to look like a pen and come in a range of different calibers. While some fire traditional bullets, others are designed for blank cartridges, flares, and even tear gas.

These pistols have been made for over a century, with new variations like the Stinger being made relatively recently (1990s). They’re usually single-shot, making them about as disposable as real pens, and most have neither long-range nor accuracy. Therefore, they’re probably better as a collectible or novelty item to make yourself feel like a super spy. Most of these pens come with a hefty tax as well. Ones with traditional projectiles are typically classified as “AOW” (Any Other Weapon), meaning they fall under the regulation of the National Firearms Act of 1934. That’ll be 200 bucks, please. 

Tear Gas Pen Gun

Maker Unknown

Caliber:  .38 Tear Gas Cartridges
Barrel Length: 2.5 inches
Action: Single Shot
Length: About 6 inches

[Editor's Note: Photos Courtesy of the Cody Firearms Museum.]

More Odd Finds on RECOIL

• How to Make a Smoke Bomb: Smoke and Spice
• DIY Double Barrel Slam Fire Shotgun.
• Solvent Traps and True DIY Suppressors.
• Advancing the AR-15 with Cox Arms.