Why do you think it is hard to get a permit in Alabama?
I have never heard of any resident of good character and background having any trouble getting a permit.
While open carry afoot is legal according to a 1984 opinion by the Attorney General, you would at minimum have to unload your gun when getting into a car. You would also likely be harassed by cops who noticed you or who were called by a "concerned citizen."
Read the last post by a cop at:
http://forums.officer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=93368