Published in JAMA Network Open · View the paper (DOI)
Less than 1% of people with firearm access engage in defensive use annually, with most firearm users never using their weapons for self-defense. Those who have experienced gun violence or quick access to firearms are more likely to perceive threats and respond defensively.
Coverage from 2 institutions
- Defensive firearm use is far less common than exposure to gun violence Rutgers University · Mar 14, 2025 · first to report
- Lifetime and past-year defensive gun use JAMA Network · Mar 14, 2025