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.

Why you can trust RECOIL

---

Since our founding in 2012, RECOIL remains the premier firearms lifestyle publication for the modern shooting enthusiast. We deliver cutting-edge coverage of guns, gear, accessories and technology. We go beyond basic reviews, providing no B.S. buyer’s guides, hands-on testing and expert analysis on everything from firearms and survival equipment to watches and vehicles. 

Our reviewers are the backbone of our operation and come from diverse shooting backgrounds: Former law enforcement, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and plain old firearms enthusiasts. Furthermore, we’re not just gun experts, but dedicated journalists who adhere to the strictest standards of our profession. 

At RECOIL, editorial independence is the foundation of everything we publish and the cornerstone of reader trust. Our editors, writers and content creators make all editorial decisions independently, free from outside influence. That boils down to: advertisers don’t dictate our coverage, the outcomes of our reviews or what we recommend in our buyer’s guides. First and always, our commitment is to our audience—ensuring every review and article is accurate, unbiased, and driven by real-world experience. 

Whether you’re selecting your next firearm, upgrading your gear, or exploring the latest innovations in the shooting world, RECOIL provides the trusted insights you need to make informed decisions. Learn more about our Editorial Standards and how we review products.

NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOIL

For years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included).

Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.

You want this. Trust Us.