Legal Definitions - concealed weapon

A concealed weapon refers to any dangerous item, such as a firearm, knife, or other object capable of causing serious harm, that is carried on or about a person in a way that prevents it from being readily observed by others under normal circumstances. The laws governing the carrying of concealed weapons vary widely by location, often requiring specific licenses or permits, or being strictly prohibited.

• Scenario: A person walks into a grocery store with a small pistol tucked into the inner pocket of their jacket, completely hidden from view.
  Explanation: The pistol is a weapon carried on the person, and its placement within the jacket pocket ensures it is not visible during ordinary observation, making it a concealed weapon.
• Scenario: During a security check at a courthouse, an individual is found to have a tactical knife strapped to their ankle, covered by their sock and pant leg.
  Explanation: The tactical knife is a weapon carried on the person. Its position on the ankle, hidden by clothing, means it is not readily apparent to others, thus qualifying it as a concealed weapon.
• Scenario: A motorist is pulled over for a traffic violation, and an officer notices a small, unregistered pistol tucked away in the glove compartment of the car, out of plain sight.
  Explanation: In many jurisdictions, a weapon hidden within a vehicle but within the immediate control or reach of the occupant is considered "about the person" and concealed, as the pistol is not visible during ordinary observation of the vehicle's interior.