Austin, TX homicide rate show guns -- CORRECTION -- knives as weapon-of-choice.

[SteveW]

http://www.statesman.com/news/local/austin-homicides-drop-in-2011-2118471.html
("enlarge photo&quot

Austin, Texas' 2011 homicide rate experienced a sharp drop when compared with the year before, going down from 37 in 2010 to 27 in 2011. There was the usual "Interstate phenomenon" of heavy crimes along the I-35 corridor through the city (a phenomenon seen in other cities with Interstates), but most striking was the weapon most often chosen: The knife (10). Guns were used in only 7 homicides. This number surprised me. Do any posters in DU Guns have data on their city's homicide rates, and what weapon was most commonly chosen?

So far, 3 murders have been committed in Austin this month; 1 probably using "blunt object," the other probably "hands." A third person was killed by a handgun.

[TPaine7]

1. We must all work together to make our families, communities, children, seniors and everyone safe...

Ban knives!!!

[SteveW]

2. Speaking of banning knives, someone is operating in this realm...

I now am the "proud" owner of a Gerber knife with a stud device at the base of the blade which will NOT allow one-handed opening of the blade as my earlier knife did. I hope this is not the wave of the future -- there's nothing like being elbow deep in a deer's blood, and reaching for a smaller knife for close work, and have to use both messy, slippery hands to open the blade. With the quick-release, I could do this with one hand, quickly and safely.

Sounds like to many (Wild, Wild) West Side Story re-runs.

[spin]

3. We should not only ban knives but pens too...

Or at least assault pens.

Bud K Tactical Pen - Silver

This tactical pen is constructed of 6061 aircraft aluminum and writes in black ink. It features an aggressive point. Instead of a cap, this pen has a twist closure. The etched design and pocket clip provide a secure grip for writing or defending. 6 3/4" overall.
http://www.amazon.com/Bud-K-Tactical-Pen-Silver/dp/B0049NR49Y

From the reviews:

A good writing pen that can also be used as a self-defense tool., February 19, 2011
By Joseph J. Truncale "warriorwriter" (Vernon Hills, Il)

Being a lifetime student of the martial arts, as well as the weapon arts, I have always had an avid interest in short weapons like the yawara stick, kubaton, persuader and other similar tools. I have always thought one of the best legal weapons one could carry is the pen. In fact, I have written a manual on the use of the pen as a simple and effective self-defense tool. When the "tactical pens" came on the market I bought several different models to test them for writing and as a self-defense tool. This model put out by Bud-K is an excellent pen that is strong, sturdy and easy to carry. The sharp bullet point metal cap can also be used to break windows etc. It is a good writing tool and after striking it hundreds of times I found that it is also very durable. It is one of the most reasonably priced tactical pens on the market. At less than $10.00 this tactical pen is a real bargain.

In conclusion, if you are seeking a tactical pen but you do not want to spend a small fortune on one, you may want to purchase this pen.

Rating: 5 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: The Mighty Pen: The use of the pen as a tactical self-defense tool)).

[Glassunion]

4. At least 2/3 are civilized.

So far, 3 murders have been committed in Austin this month;

1 probably using "blunt object," - A noble manner in which to die. One can only hope the deceased had an opportunity to thank the person for delivering such an honorable death.


the other probably "hands." - yet another glorious way to take the trip to the other side. I personally believe the one that aided this individual in their death should be able to write off such charity on their taxes.

A third person was killed by a handgun. - how fucking rude! This... This is evil and such should be punished to a greater extent then the law currently allows.

[Hangingon]

5. Texas Dept. of Parks and Wildlife will consider allowing suppressors for hunting today.

You know that, if allowed, people will use these to defend their homes and lives against poor, working theives. Sarcasm!

[Hoyt]

6. Yet gun culture members in area are still arming up with guns and more guns.

[Hangingon]

7. Sharp drop in 2011 murder rate in Austin

More and more guns in legal hands probably have significant impact on the sharp drop.

[oneshooter]

8. Have you got all of yours sold yet? n/t

[Hoyt]

13. Why would I sell the few I have AT HOME -- NOT IN PUBLIC. It would just spread them around to

irresponsible gun owners who carry them everywhere, and God knows what else they do with them.

[oneshooter]

14. So you are saying that you would sell them to

"irresponsible gun owners", more of a reason for the police to remove them from you, and have you commited for observation.

How many people have you ran down and detained to "check their papers" so far.

Oneshooter
Armed and Livin in Texas

[Hoyt]

17. No, I'm saying I will not sell the couple of revolvers I have to you or other gun fanatics.

You'll just pack them on the streets or sell them to someone who will.

[Union Scribe]

22. You have more guns than I have.

Why do you need such a big arsenal?

[liberal_biker]

16. So you're the only responsible gun owner?

Is that how we're supposed to take that?

You may want to look up the word "arrogance"....just sayin'

[Hoyt]

18. Take it how you like, but the majority of gun owners don't pack in public. Only a small

percentage can't venture out without a gun or two strapped to their bodies.

[liberal_biker]

20. That doesnt address the question in any way.

Perhaps you could try answering the questions you are asked, rather than making shit up that has nothing to do with them?

[Hoyt]

23. Why should I answer your loaded questions?

[TheWraith]

9. Since they clearly have no negative impact...

...what, exactly, do you claim as your grounds for griping? Except of course your personal entitlement as the moral arbiter for all people, everywhere.

[Hoyt]

12. "No negative impact?" Think -- gun crime rate might even be less without so many of dang things.

Yet you guys just keep scarfing them up and promoting others do same. Worse, you promote carrying them in public.

[TheWraith]

15. Yes, gun crime might be lower. And we might have an invasion of unicorns.

When you simply make things up to suit your argument, it no longer becomes reasoned debate, it's an example of "I'm right so shut up!" Which is really all you have to go on, since all the evidence that has accrued shows your assertions to be wrong.

[Hoyt]

19. Like you guys who can't walk down the street without a gun are objective.

[liberal_biker]

21. I don't know anyone who cannot walk down the street without a gun.

Not sure there is such a thing.

[oneshooter]

10. So why should this bother you?

Can you "feel the polution" in Georgia?

Oneshooter
Armed and Livin in Texas

[Straw Man]

11. Of course.

Yet gun culture members in area are still arming up with guns and more guns.

Can you think of a better weapon to counter a knife attack?