How many people were killed in the WTC/ Pentagon etc attacks? How many guns were involved in that?
Apples and oranges. Question is, how many WTC attacks have been sucessfully carried out SINCE September 11? None
Why?? Because the standard operating procedure (SOP) for US airlines AT THAT TIME was to COMPLY with hijacker demands, and take them wherever they wanted to go. Resisting them on our own, as we flightcrews were taught, would only make the situation worse. Instead, we would use certain code words, transponder codes, or flap configurations to signal law enforcement/SWAT that we'd need their help post-landing. 9/11 changed all that overnight. That's why similar attempts (shoe bomber, underwear bomber) never had a chance. Next time someone stands up with a box cutter on a crowded plane, they're gonna get body slammed in a heartbeat. That's especially true if you happen to have a few current/former military guys onboard.
Now, contrast that to the nutter who suddenly starts shooting up a dark, crowded theater. Well, you can tackle him if you can even FIND him, or if he doesn't mow you down first. You have a concealed carry permit? Fine, but you might want your NVGs so you can pick the bastard out.
I think one of the Aussies chimed in earlier, and perhaps they can comment on this: at one time, guns were fairly prevalent down under. But, since the Port Arthur massacre, and subsequent gun 'amnesty' program, there haven't been any similar incidents since. No mall, school, workplace massacres...nuthin.' Hmm, coincidence?? Don't think so.
Of course there might be 'thug crimes,' home break-ins, foul play, gun suicides in Oz that we don't hear much about in the Americas. Would be good to get an Aussie's view.