This study examines the association between demographic & geographic factors & the use of firearms versus other suicide methods. Data was taken from the National Center for Health Statistics Mortality Detail Files & results show that among white women who died by suicide in 1989-1991, the risk of using firearms varied across demographic & geographic subcategories of the population. The following characteristics among women were more likely to be associated with the use of firearms as a method of suicide: ages 65-74, married, of lower education attainment, & live in the South. (LC) (37 refs)