Palm Pistol allows people with disabilites to protect themselves

In the U.S., everyone has the right to protect themselves. And now there's a handgun that lets disabled people do just that.

By: Laura Phelps | WNCT-On Your Side
Published: December 10, 2008

In the U.S., everyone has the right to protect themselves. And now there's a handgun that lets disabled people do just that.

It’s called the Palm Pistol. It fires a 9 mm bullet with a simple squeeze. The gun is designed for people with a hand or finger disability. It can also be used by senior citizens who have severe arthritis.

If enough people are interested, Palm Pistols may become available for purchase in the year 2010.

One pistol will cost around $300.

Meanwhile, the Palm Pistol's manufacturer says he's working on getting it approved as a medical assistance device.

That means it could eventually be covered by Medicare or private insurance companies.

According to CBS News, the company's website says the Food and Drug Administration lists the pistol as a “Class I Medical Device,” because it's designed to help people with certain medical conditions.

Critics say the Palm Pistol shouldn’t be considered a medical assistance device, because it doesn’t improve anyone’s health. But the manufacturer argues that a hearing aid or a walker doesn’t improve anyone’s health either. Yet, they are covered by insurance companies.