The consequences of the illicit use of firearms are a global issue. Every year over 200,000 people are unlawfully killed using firearms outside of conflict zones. Terrorist attacks using firearms are also more deadly than those using other weapons, such as incendiary devices. This textbook explores the many dimensions of this issues taking a global perspective. Students are not only introduced to the core issues related to the trafficking, manufacture, availability and criminal use of firearms, but also issues such as firearms markets; national and international legal frameworks to control firearms; the response of the criminal justice system; the role of civil society in affecting change; and how students can get involved through research and action. The text uses international case studies, activities and on-line resources in order to help students and academic staff bring these issues to life, and gain a deeper understanding of this complex and multi-dimensional phenomenon.