Americans headed to the gun counter in greater numbers during October, according to the latest firearm background check data from NSSF.
The October 2026 NSSF-adjusted National Instant Criminal Background Check System figure reached 1,402,422. That represents a 7.9% increase over the adjusted October 2025 total of 1,299,312.
NSSF reported 1,402,422 adjusted NICS checks in October 2026, a 7.9% increase from October 2025.
NSSF adjusts the FBI’s raw NICS numbers by removing permit checks and permit rechecks that are not directly associated with a firearm transfer. While the adjusted figure does not equal the exact number of firearms sold, it provides the industry with a clearer snapshot of activity at federally licensed firearm retailers.
Mark Oliva, NSSF’s managing director of public affairs, tied the increase to both personal safety concerns and the ongoing debate over gun rights.
“It is evident that gun owners are already voting with their wallets when it comes to their Second Amendment rights, even as Americans are heading to their polling places to vote in federal and state elections,” Oliva said.
“The October report of a 7.9 percent increase of background checks for the sale of a firearm at retailer, compared to a year ago, is a significant increase that shows Americans invest in their personal safety and right to keep and bear arms,” he continued. “Month-after month, Americans prove that they reject unconstitutional gun control when they show up to the gun counter and legally buy guns.”
