Are automobiles as risky, less risky or more risky than firearms?
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This is a somewhat bogus comparison.
The thing is that a car, when used as intended, kills no one.
A car is a complex device that eventually costs more to repair than to junk and buy a new one, or at least a better used one.
A gun is a simple device that rarely wears out. Compared to a car, it has many fewer parts, and if a part on a gun breaks, it can be replaced or a new part can be made in a machine shop.
An unused car deteriorates with age, A gun has few rubber parts and if simply wrapped in a piece of oily flannel can be easily stored for generations.
A gun, on the other hand, is intended to kill.