In choosing their targets robbers are looking for something that is 'easy' and were particularly concerned that there was a good escape route. A fifth admitted having robbed the same place twice principally because it is easy the first time. Very little planning is required, robbers ask for money and staff give it, robbers do not feel they are likely to get caught, in fact most said the chances were 'very low'. Some robbers would commit robberies for very small sums, because they needed money and it was easy. Guns are easy to obtain, there is a plentiful supply on the black market.
Robbers take guns to reduce the chances of injury, witnesses are less likely to argue with a gun.
Some robbers felt that they had done victims a favour, by providing them with an event and something to talk about in an otherwise dull life. It was claimed some victims exaggerated losses or injuries to get robbers longer sentences. Some felt that those working with money should expect be robbed, that it is one of life's hazards. Avoiding capture is a priority and some made it clear that they would use their gun and shoot their way out. When robbers received a harsher sentence than expected that felt it was due to judges being 'mean bastards' 'raving lunatics', or due to racial prejudice, poor legal representation or a corrupt legal system.