GUN CONTROL! How's that working out for you Brits? Sorry, couldn't resist. I really can't imagine how anyone could believe banning handguns would really have much impact on reducing crime. Anyone can find an illegal weapon if they look hard enough. You can buy the tools and materials to make your own at home. Muzzleloaders can kill just as good, one shot not good enough, carry several, or get one with several barrels. I've shot a 6-shooter, that was a muzzle loader, just had to replace the cap each shot. You don't even need a gun to rob or kill.
An honest citizen with a gun, at least has some chance. Although, admittedly they seldom have the chance to pick up the gun, and the felon usually walks off with it (next victim).
Basically, I would think encouraging the people to arm themselves, and keep it visiable, would be a greater deterent. How many people would risk getting shot over a purse or wallet, which might be empty anyway. The victim would even have to be the one with the gun, anyone nearby. Anybody using a weapon in a crime should be a fair target (save money on a trial).
Anything can be used as a weapon. I think my chances of surviving a bullet would be better than getting my head busted open with a baseball bat....