FBI figures posted Tuesday show there were 2,495,400 background checks done through the FBI 's National Instant Criminal Background Check System , known as NICS . Figures show there were 2,495,400 background checks through FBI system . The data does not show exactly how many weapons may have been purchased . December was the top record - setting month , with most background checks .
Figures show there were 2,495,400 background checks through FBI system . The data does not show exactly how many weapons may have been purchased . December was the top record - setting month , with most background checks .