1. To bring influence to bear upon any official by bribery or other means in order to obtain favors or concessions not provided for by the law. 2. To put one's hands up at the order of armed robbers or police. 3. To reach for a pistol or other weapon. "The bull (detective) reached, and Buzz banged (shot) him in the conk (head)."

- american underworld dictionary - 1950