Just playing a point here, don't use it to figure out my stance on the subject:

Outlawing cars would take a vital service away from people. But outlawing guns wouldn't harm anyone in theory. Guns are used for:

1. Shooting someone else (in defense, as a murder, accidents, suicide)
2. Hunting (not needed, we have farms for food)
3. Entertainment (target practice, etc...)

So in theory, taking them away would result in a safer country. It wouldn't impact people greatly, and we all know not many law makers care about #3.

The whole gun control issue has always been a sticky one. The only criminals will have them is a big aspect of it. And it is always interesting to see different countries policies, and what does work and what dosen't. It's all about the culture.

I personally believe that guns should not be banned outright in the US since that won't solve much. Instead, have a process similar to driving a car. Ensure the owner knows how to properly use it, give them a license, and let them own a gun. Of course many gun owners are against this for some reason, but I see it as no different then other hobbies like ham radio where a license is needed to broadcast.