I assume it means unfolded, a Keltec sub2k is a bit over 16" folded, but there is no way it could fire a cartridge folded, SO
I do not see a definition of "overall length" referring to either (being folded or unfolded) All I see is if you "alter" a firearm such as by sawing off stock and barrel
I think the Key words for "OAL Overall Length are below
folding isn't an "alteration" it was an original design unless you change a fixed stock to a folding one, Then I don't know
or any weapon made from a shotgun or rifle if, as altered, it has an overall length of less than 26 inches
Evin if you "make" one(10) "Short-barrel firearm" means a rifle with a barrel length of less than 16 inches or a shotgun with a barrel length of less than 18 inches, or any weapon made from a shotgun or rifle if, as altered, it has an overall length of less than 26 inches.
"as altered" fitting that definition it wouldn't be prohibited under the exceptionmade from a
Sec. 46.05. PROHIBITED WEAPONS.unless the item is registered in the National Firearms Registration
That's my pre-coffee layman's opinion, I ain't a lawyer(a) A person commits an offense if the person intentionally or knowingly possesses, manufactures, transports, repairs, or sells:
(1) any of the following items, unless the item is registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record maintained by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives or classified as a curio or relic by the United States Department of Justice:
(A) an explosive weapon;
(B) a machine gun;
(C) a short-barrel firearm; or
(D) a firearm silencer;
(2) knuckles;
(3) armor-piercing ammunition;
(4) a chemical dispensing device;
(5) a zip gun; or
(6) a tire deflation device.