Reply #154: Well, the data are out there...

[SteveM]

Just how many people have been killed in Columbine-type shootings?

"but, it's also true that the more guns there are, the more innocent people will die either through accidents or lunatics using them. Also, people who are depressed, in their lowest times, could also use them."

This is a variation on the Brady "more guns equal more crimes" bologna. We have had a big increase in the number of firearms held in civilian hands, but the homicide rate in the U.S. has dropped significantly over the last 10-15 years. Their bumper sticker slogan holds no water. People in their "lowest times" could indeed use guns and do. They could also use other means. In Japan, where guns are nearly non-existent -- except in the possession of criminals and the government -- the suicide rate is much higher than in the U.S. How do you think they accomplish suicide?