Gun Permits

It depends on who it is. Some people are authorized to carry firearms.

You literally don't give any context. Simply because you don't have any. It could very well be a plain clothes detective from NYPD. IT could be a federal agent. Why would you think we could answer your vague, nearly impossible question?

People still can also have conceal carry licenses here in NYC. Or it could be someone illegally carrying a gun. You should know by now that LITERALLY no one here knows that answer because we literally don't know the scenario in question.

I'm sorry I don't know more.

I thought, maybe mistakenly, that if it were a plain-clothes detective or a federal agent, the person would carry the gun hidden by clothing.

I didn't think that a "conceal carry license" was relevant as this gun was not concealed.

Next time you see someone with a gun, make a citizen's arrest.

Was he waving it around? Holding it casually by his side? Pointing it at someone? Was he selling it to or buying it from someone? Was he wearing camo? Did he have a MAGA hat on? Did he have any other weapons? Was it in a holster?

It was in a holster. No camo nor MAGA hat; no other weapons.

Cop then. No one in NYC would be stupid enough to open carry.

OK, thanks.

Still, it surprises me. If he is undercover, why allow his gun to be seen? If he is not undercover, why not wear a police uniform?

Could be a detective or high ranking officer like a lieutenant or more.