raggmann54
Thanks for taking the time for your rational and detailed post. In fairness statistics can be used to support both side of the argument. I've read articles that show that the states with tighter gun control laws have fewer gun related deaths and that the states with higher gun ownership have higher gun related deaths. The US has way more guns per person compared to other countries and also has way more gun deaths ( adjusted for population size) whether they be suicides, gang related or the average of more than 1 mass shootings a day in the US ( defined as 4 or more persons shot) more guns unfortunately does translate to more gun related deaths because they are more readily accessible. Stats also show that countries with Less guns have less deaths.
So relating to this comment
"Remember, when it comes to "gun control," the important word is “control," not “gun."
IMO, it's both We have a lot of guns up here , hunters, gun clubs, collectors and we have relativel strict guidelines and laws but nobody feels that there is a control issue at hand ,we can use our guns to hunt , range shoot etc. One big social and cultural difference is that we don't feel a need to have to Carry a gun around and it's not permitted. It's not to say we are better but the end result is a low death rate by guns.
Gun deaths won't stop , but I think Sneaky hit the nail on the head, it's the super powered weapons capable of rapid multiple casualties in a short period of time which ar most often used in the mass killings such as LV. Are these really needed to be something essentially anyone can own.
As for all the other sources of preventable deaths you cited, these are issues we all deal with as well but are for another discussion. The statistics Are not different in other countries , like gun deaths are.
Controversial and emotional topic that will forever be debated especially when events like Sandy Hook occur......there deep rooted social and economic underpinnings which makes it a complex issue for sure
