NCJ Number
92770
Editor(s)
M D Karlin
Date Published
1983
Length
70 pages
Annotation
This document addresses myths relative to the handgun control debate, identifies existing methods of handgun control, and explores new perspectives to resolving the handgun problem.
Abstract
Six myths are analyzed, including: (1) the public will never support handgun control, (2) the Saturday Night Special accounts for most of the crime with handguns, (3) the second amendment guarantees citizens' rights to keep and bear arms, (4) handguns are necessary for self-protection, (5) handguns serve a valid sporting purpose, and (6) handguns don't kill people, people do. Handgun control laws in Canada, Great Britain, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland, and West Germany are reviewed; the ineffectiveness of laws in the United States to regulate handguns is cited. Efforts to control firearms are traced to the War Revenue Act of 1919; firearms are traced to the War Revenue Act of 1919; to the Firearms in the U.S. Mails Act of February 8, 1927; and to various New Deal initiatives. Attention is also focused on the Gun Control Act of 1968, as well as on State and local laws. Legislative options such as the licensing of handgun owners and the registration of handguns are considered; examples of administrative options for achieving stronger handgun control are detailed. An area of litigation aimed at making handgun manufacturers and owners legally responsible for the misuse of their handguns is considered. Finally, handgun violence is discussed as a public health problem, and handgun victimization is addressed. Appendixes cite organizations working to reduce handgun violence, delineate National Commission recommendations, and list 25 references.