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The first so-called “smart gun” has hit the shelves at U.S. retail outlets, including one of the biggest firearms stores in California, according to the Washington Post
The Smart System iP1, a .22-caliber pistol made by the German gun-maker Armatix GmbH, can only function with an accompanying wristwatch, which is sold separately.
When the RFID-equipped watch is activated by a PIN number and placed near the gun — like when a shooter grips the handle — it sends a signal to unlock the gun and a light on the back of the weapon turns green, according to the report. Otherwise, the firearm stays locked and the light on the back remains red, it stated.
The pistol sells for $1,399 and the watch retails for another $399 — more than double the cost of .40-caliber Glock handgun, according to the article.
The company is betting that demand for the technology will increase as consumers seek guns modified for safety.
The intelligent iW1 wrist watch arms the weapon for firing and also has the following functions:
PIN code entry and PIN code management for weapon enablement
charge level indicator for watch and weapon
time-controlled weapon deactivation
extensive watch functions, waterproof
interchangeable straps, power supply for 5,000 rounds or a minimum of one year standby, depending on operation.
iP1 Pistol with innovative features:
.22 LR calibre, 10 round magazine
electronic magazine disconnect
different operating modes
an operating distance of up to 10 inches
integrated grip and drop safety
color-coded operating mode, patented mechatronic interface for additional applications (e.g. camera)
tested and approved by ATF
Problems I see with this….
Requires some sort of power source…. power sources fail!
Pairing issues?
Battlefield pick up
price – Out of range for most people