In "Cost of handguns" (Forum, Jan. 2), Tom Stephens condemned the civilian ownership of handguns because of the number of deaths attributed to their use. He challenged supporters of civilian ownership to justify the carnage.

At least 17 academic studies indicate that approximately 2 million-2.5 million violent attacks are prevented in this country each year due to gun ownership. Often the use of a firearm is not even required; simply indicating that you are armed encourages assailants to seek easier targets.

In this country, even home invasions occur less frequently than in many other countries because criminals worry that the potential victim might be armed. According to www.dailymail.co.uk, the violent crime rate per 100,000 residents is much higher in the United Kingdom (2,034), Australia (1,677) and even Canada (935) than in the United States (466).

Much of the violent crime that occurs in this country is by gangs protecting turf. Criminals, by definition, do not obey laws. In Mexico, where personal ownership of firearms is strictly limited, the murder rate is 13 per 100,000 people; whereas, in the gun-toting United States, it is four!

We have made it illegal to possess most drugs. How well has that worked out?

John Wangsgaard

Salt Lake City