[simonh]

So are gun ownership rates and the types of weapons owned in California similar to that in Canada as well then? If they are, ok you might have a point, although I'm not quite sure what you think the reason for the difference in outcome in Canada and California might be.

[microcolonel]

As far as criminal access to firearms is concerned, it's close to the same. Civilian ownership is lower than California, but not to the extent you might think. Though people who are otherwise law-abiding often do purchase firearms illegally in Canada, especially if you poll the people in prison for possession.

If one has a desire to, I doubt it would take more than a few days for one to purchase a handgun illegally.