Guns in Crime: What's the Story Behind the Numbers?

Guns found at crime scenes are telling a story. A recent study looked at nearly 350, 000 guns used in crimes across over 50 U. S. cities from 2020 to 2024. The study dug into where these guns came from and how their origins have changed over time. One big concern is the rise of 3D-printed guns. These guns can be made at home and are often untraceable because they don't have serial numbers. In 2020, only 32 of these guns were found at crime scenes in 20 cities. But by 2024, that number jumped to 325, a huge increase. While 3D-printed guns are still a small part of the overall problem, their rapid growth is alarming. Places with strict gun laws, like New York, are seeing the biggest rise in these untraceable weapons. The study also found that most crime guns come from just a few big manufacturers. Glock, Taurus, Smith & Wesson, and Ruger account for more than half of the guns found at crime scenes. This isn't surprising since these companies are among the largest gun makers in the U. S. Critics say these manufacturers should take responsibility for the role their products play in crimes.Another issue is how quickly legally purchased guns end up at crime scenes. Half of the nearly 2 million guns traced by the ATF from 2019 to 2023 were bought legally but used in crimes within three years. This suggests some guns are bought with the intention of trafficking them for criminal use. Theft is another way legal guns end up being used in crimes. Experts say gun owners can help by keeping their firearms locked up. The study highlights the need for better regulations and enforcement. Companies that make 3D printers could block the printing of firearms. States could make it illegal to publish blueprints for 3D-printed guns. Stronger federal inspections of gun dealers could also help ensure proper sales protocols are followed. But budget cuts are making it harder for agencies like the ATF to do their job.