Reducing the stockpile of firearms in private hands depends on changing public perceptions about the necessity and desirability of owning and carrying firearms. The thesis of this perspective is that gun-control proposals that allow large numbers of individuals and groups to retain their weapons will not encourage voluntary and cooperative disarmament by nonexempt individuals and groups. If the police showed leadership in disarming themselves, more private citizens, including gun owners, might view firearms as unnecessary in their own lives. If self-defense provides the crucial justification for permitting police to carry guns, it also provides justification for every citizen to own a gun. Although the police may be exposed to more danger than most private citizens and are required to confront and manage violent and dangerous criminals, there are private citizens who perceive that they live in dangerous neighborhoods and commercial areas where the chance of being confronted by an armed attacker is great. If private citizens are to be convinced that they can be safe and secure without a lethal weapon, then the police must set the example by developing and using all sorts of nonlethal weapons, outfitting themselves in bulletproof clothing, and training themselves in martial arts. If private citizens are to be convinced they do not need guns for self-protection, the police must provide leadership and example.