Does Gun Control Reduce Crime Rates? In reality, gun control does not significantly reduce crime. In fact, strict gun control regulations do not prevent criminals from obtaining guns because only law-abiding citizens comply. On the other hand, criminals do not obey gun control laws, just as they do not obey many other laws. Gun advocates say fewer guns available lead to less crime, but research has shown the opposite. Gun control is an ineffective way to reduce crime because it does not target the underlying causes of crime. Criminals are individuals who, by definition, do not respect the law. Therefore, more laws and regulations will not change the conduct of criminals. In the academic journal Does Gun Control Reduction Crime