May’s NICS numbers indicate a 1.6 percent decline in firearm sales compared to last year, yet the month signifies the 70th consecutive period with over 1 million gun sales processed through the FBI’s background check system. The National Shooting Sports Foundation estimates 1,071,685 gun sales for May, presenting a slight improvement from the sharper drops seen in earlier months of 2025.
The observed decline is notably less than April’s 3.4 percent and March’s 3.8 percent reductions year-over-year, suggesting potential stabilization in the market. As the figures don’t account for legal transfers in states with alternative permits that bypass additional background checks, the actual sales numbers could be higher, prompting industry analysts to explore whether a solid recovery trend may be unfolding.
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