Submitted by Bob from Sarasota, FL, Apr 23, 2007 11:50

Both ideas have merit, unfortunately people who use guns to commit crimes like the idea of gun free zones, they have a gun, everyone else in the zone is unarmed...... Fear of guns has a moderstly opposite effect, law abiding citizens may have a carry permit and 99.99% of them have a fear of guns, knowing that careless handling of weapons can injure themselves, a loved one or innocent bystander. There's a subtle difference here, and it makes a big difference in the way Americans approach the subject.
Strict enforecment of all gun laws on the books might help, but a better system of defining who may have a gun in their possession and who may buy one at all, may be a start.
Banning guns for the sake of banning them will make some people feel better, but if someone really wants a gun, they'll figure a way to get one.
Making it harder to get a gun in the first place is a good start. A thorough background investigation is needed and closer cooperation between controlling agencies is vital here, extended waiting times would also fit in this system. legitimate gun owners and buyers can take the necessary steps to comply and not suffer by waiting an extra week or so, but it still will not stop bad folks from getting them. That's the real issue as far as gun control goes.

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