Joe Jackson flashes gun

London - Joe Jackson carries a gun with him.

The showbiz patriarch was introducing his friend Majestik at the Tuscany Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas last weekend when he opened his jacket to reveal a pistol in a holster, and he claimed he was not afraid to use it if necessary as he was always under threat.

According to TMZ.com, he said: "I carry a piece everywhere I go, I'm gonna show it to you. I've been threatened a lot of times and so I need to be safe."

He also revealed he threatened Michael Jackson's bodyguards with the weapon when he suspected they were giving him drugs.

Majestik revealed Joe said: "If I hear you all givin' my son drugs or doing anything illegal with my son ... I'ma kill all of you."

Joe confirmed the story, saying: "It's very true. Every word he said."

It is not clear if Joe is legally allowed to carry a gun.

Michael died of acute Propofol intoxication in 2009, and prior to his death accused his father of beating him when he performed with his brothers in the Jackson 5.

However, Joe said he never "beat" him because he did not use a stick to do it.

He said: "I whipped him with a switch and a belt. I never beat him. You beat someone with a stick." - Bang Showbiz