[guns]

> It may have to do with knowing anyone could own and possess either legal or illegal firearms.

While this may have an influence, it's important to remember that police officers are also trained to be wary of knives:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_KJ1R2PCMM

You can't totally disarm a population, so there are diminishing returns on this front.

[RoboSeldon]

While this may have an influence, it's important to remember that police officers are also trained to be wary of knives

Are you seriously comparing a knife with a firearm ?

[eric_h]

Within about 3-5 feet, a knife is just as dangerous as a firearm.