Data from the Compressed Mortality File for the years 1979-1991 were analyzed to determine epidemiologic trends in the rates of suicide by firearms among 3 age groups of white & black men age 65+. In 1991, among men age 65 & older, firearms accounted for 80% of all suicides. Firearm suicide rates increased significantly over time among white men in all 3 age groups, especially those age 75 & older, & among black men between the ages of 75 & 84. Clinicians should regularly conduct a firearm-availability history with elderly men who are depressed or suicidal. (10 refs.)