National homicide statistics indicate an increase in homicide rates among young people. Although the rise in the firearm homicide rate is commonly linked to drugs, some authorities contend many violent crimes actually have little if anything to do with illegal substances. Rather, firearm availability may be primarily responsible for the high U.S. homicide rate. Few studies have examined specific reasons why youth obtain firearms, but findings from several recent surveys suggest that handguns are more apt to be acquired by socially deviant youths than by their more "normally" acting counterparts. Many youths who take guns to school often do more than just show them off; they may use their firearms to intimidate, injure, or kill others. Pros and cons of gun control are evaluated, and research on the link between the "weapons effect" and impulsive aggression is reported. Observations about the role of guns in developing violence proneness are offered, and questions for further research are raised. 73 references