World·Video

India gun maker markets small handgun for women

A gun maker in India has unveiled a small, light revolver that was designed for women in the wake of a high-profile act of violence.

Titanium-alloy .32-calibre revolver weighs 525 grams

Gun builder creates new, small pistol for Indian women

10 years ago
Duration 1:04
Small arm being marketed in response to recent violent attacks against women across India

A gun maker in India has unveiled a small, light revolver that was designed for women in the wake of a high-profile act of violence.

The Nirbheek, a .32-calibre revolver made from titanium alloy, weighs 525 grams and has a range of 10 to 15 metres.

"The light weight happens to be the crucial feature of the gun for which women will find it easier to use. It will also help in adding to the popularity of the gun as the material used in the gun is different from others," said S.N. Pandey, a gun seller for Small Arms Factory.

According to Reuters, the 2012 fatal gang rape of a 23-year-old woman in Delhi was the motivation behind the development of the Nirbheek. 

"It is good that we can keep the gun in our purse," said a woman named Sudha after she examined the weapon on Wednesday at a launch event in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. "It is lightweight and easy to use."

The gun sells for $2,485.