Why do criminals carry guns?

Some of them want to protect themselves from other criminals.

Some of them want to have an advantage over the victim.

Some of them want to be on even footing with the police.

Some of them are just looking to kill someone.

Some of them do it because all the cool criminals do it (peer pressure).

Some of them do it because they steal the guns and sell them.

Some of them do it because they feel it is a status symbol.

Some of them want to intimidate others.

There are almost as many reasons as there are criminals.