RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 The Decision to Carry: The Effect of Crime on Concealed-Carry Applications
JF Journal of Human Resources
JO J Hum Resour
FD University of Wisconsin Press
SP 1016-8287R2
DO 10.3368/jhr.54.4.1016.8287R2
A1 Briggs Depew
A1 Isaac D. Swensen
YR 2018
UL http://jhr.uwpress.org/content/early/2018/04/02/jhr.54.4.1016.8287R2.abstract
AB Despite persistent debate on the role of concealed-carry legislation, decisions to legally carry concealed handguns are not well understood. Using detailed data on concealed-carry permit applications, we explore whether individuals apply for concealed-carry permits in response to crime. We find that recent homicides increase applications in areas relatively near to the incident. The effects are driven by gun-related homicides, and are more pronounced for white, male, and Republican applicants. We also find suggestive evidence that applicants are more responsive when they share a demographic characteristic with the homicide victim. The results further indicate that applications after recent homicides are more likely to be renewed, consistent with persistent precautionary behaviors. Our findings provide causal evidence that crime risk influences individual decisions regarding legal gun use.