As with all the other states that have gone to constitutional carry since 2005, Arkansas has retained its concealed carry permit system. The permit gains reciprocity with a number of other states. In most states the permit allows people to buy guns at dealers without going through the instant check system.
Arizona, where I live, still has a concealed weapons permit, and I maintain one, even though none is needed to carry concealed.
There are good reasons to keep the permit system in place, but because it is there, that does not mean one is needed to carry concealed legally.
You raise some good points. I am aware of the ease of buying handguns with a valid CHCL and importance of limited state reciprocity for us travelers. However, I still think a permit is required in AR for concealed carry. I am going to call the Arkansas State Police this afternoon and get their guidance and interpretation of the law. I will let you know what I find out.