The results of the 1995 NOSCJ are consistent with other surveys regarding the prevalence of gun ownership, the characteristics of gun owners, and opinions about gun control. Approximately one-fifth of U.S. households owned guns for protection against crime. In general, citizens preferred either more restrictions on firearms or maintaining the status quo. Although only a small minority wanted less strict gun laws, the proportion appears to have increased over time. The characteristics of respondents who wanted freer access to guns and who viewed guns as important for self-defense were similar. Americans tended to support the notion that an armed citizenry is the best defense against crime. In contrast, they generally rejected gun ownership as a means of protection against government abuse of power. Gun owners, particularly those who own guns for protection against crime, and activists were much more likely to view guns as important for protecting life and property from criminals or an abusive government. Regarding liability for the misuse of firearms, support was moderate for holding parents criminally responsible for the actions of their children, and no consensus emerged on holding manufacturers liable for injuries inflicted by guns. Finally, confidence in police, rather than fear of crime, was an important correlate of attitudes toward gun issues. Findings suggest that the successful implementation of gun regulations, which is frustrated by the perceived utility of personal gun ownership, can be promoted by increasing the public's confidence in the criminal justice system. 5 tables