Most of the research reviewed was conducted in the United States. The results showed that during the last decade the homicide rate per 100,000 population has fluctuated within the range of 8.1 to 10.5, while the suicide rate has varied between 11.6 and 13.3 per 100,000. In addition, the likelihood that an assault will result in death depends on the lethality of the weapon, among other factors. However, the evidence that the lethality of the weapon affects the likelihood of death in suicide is somewhat weaker. The assailant's choice of weapon also depends on several factors, including the relative vulnerability of the intended victim and the general availability of firearms. In addition, National Crime Survey data indicate that guns are used only about 80,000 times each year in self-defense, although half of American households have guns. 105 references. (Author abstract modified)