Peter:  Thank you for a very reasoned response.  We face the seemingly impossible task of keeping firearms out of the hands of those who would use them to do harm, while, at the same time, protecting the firearms ownership of those who are responsible gun-owners.  Certainly, your suggestions would address the hudreds (likely thousands) of accidental firearm deaths we see each year.  I own guns and they're kept very secure in a gun safe.  Make that very, very secure, since I have real trouble opening the damn thing when I want to.  However, those persons who wish to have quick, easy access to firearms usually face the issues which accompany availability...that is, others, including children, can access them too.  

Today's contentious debate over firearms isn't new and will be still lively 20, 50, 100..or who know how many years from now.  Hopefully, we can find some common ground and make some progress toward that "seemingly impossible task" I describe.    regards, Gary