Amid some alleged controversy (A gun dealer claims he is getting death threats over this, I suspect a dumb publicity stunt and self humiliating rant) I went looking at the gun makers web site. Let’s cut through the noise. This is pretty interesting. The gun only works if its enabling controller/watch gives it the code and is close enough to send it. Take away the watch and the gun won’t fire.

Well tell ya what I want to test this gun. I have some reservations, wondering if the RFID can be hacked rendering the gun useless. Or worse, usable by the wrong person. Those answers will be coming I’m sure. But that having been said this is a game changer. Whether this gets required by law is way up the road. But I might want one now. I can wear that watch or if the codes are sophisticated enough not have to worry about a stolen gun or a kid getting hold of it and having a tragedy. I like the idea of a safer gun.

Will gun control advocates favor this? That could go a couple ways-Some may embrace a safer gun as an improvement in pubic safety. A gun a gang banger can’t steal and use. A gun a kid that finds that can’t shoot. But if you want guns banned or nearly so you may fear this as undermining the effort. Hopefully almost no one would take that position, but hey it’s a big country out there, nuts of all descriptions not exclusive to gun nuts.

Of course time will tell how well embraced this is by gun buyers. I’m optimistic if this tech gets common and affordable.

Smart System consists of a radio-controlled watch that is responsible for gun access and use. A Smart System gun will only shoot if it is within range of this watch. It is possible to release the safety mechanism via the radiocontrolled watch activated by means of a PIN code. As soon as the gun loses radio contact with the watch - e.g. if it is knocked out of the shooter’s hand or in case of loss, theft, etc. - it automatically deactivates itself.

Armatix is currently involved in advanced licensing negotiations with several gun manufacturers. In addition, Armatix offers a tried and tested smart system in the form of a development of its own: the iP1 pistol (.22 LR caliber) and the iW1 active RFID watch. The prototype from Armatix is proof that guns with integrated electronic intelligence are already possible and feasible today. How the technology can be incorporated into existing handguns needs to be checked in individual cases.

More: Armatix GmbH: Smart System