NCJ Number
169680
Journal
JAMA Volume: 275 Issue: 22 Dated: (June 12, 1996) Pages: 1749-1753
Date Published
1996
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article identifies those trends in the design and marketing of firearms that affect rates of firearm-related injury and violence or appear likely to do so in the near future.
Abstract
The design of handguns is evolving in response to changing consumer demand and the opportunities and limitations created by statute. This evolution will affect rates of firearm violence. The small-caliber Saturday night special is being replaced by inexpensive medium-caliber guns. The general trend toward higher- caliber handguns may well lead to an increase in the case- fatality rate for all types of shootings. The increased availability of handguns designed to be carried concealed in public may increase the number of shootings. Frequent depictions of laser-equipped and very-high-caliber handguns in broadcast entertainment may lead to selective increases in their involvement in violence, as is believed to have occurred with both conventional pistols and assault weapons in the 1980's. Current health and criminal justice surveillance systems are not capable of detecting these changes except where special efforts are being made. If we are to understand the relationship between firearms as products and firearm violence, there must be a comprehensive firearm fatality reporting system. Policy-makers should consider adopting a comprehensive, rational, and continuing focus on product-based approaches to the prevention of firearm violence. 2 figures, 1 table, and 46 references