John, my standpoint is that there should be hand guns allowed by permit; with strict procedures to be followed. NY has a tough gun permit program. Used to be you couldn't get a permit for NYC area either. Some states all you need is a drivers license and you can have a hand gun. maybe you have to wait a week now! I think that's a little 'loose' some states you cant even get a carry permit, a permit to take the handgun to a target range only is allowed. That's a little 'strict' the way I see it. I used to have a bunch of handguns but not anymore. but if I want to get another someday I'd like to be able to do that. By allowing guns by permit. I think the police should crack down on illegally held guns and give these people the death penalty. They are a menace to society and cause nothing but heart ache and sorry, pain and suffering. Get a permit, take a safety course, guns are not to be cool or to just fuck around with.