Editor: According to the NSSF, the gun sales data is derived from NSSF-adjusted National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) data. The adjusted NICS data were derived by subtracting out NICS purpose-code permit checks used by several states such as Connecticut, Illinois, and Utah for CCW permit application checks as well as checks on active CCW permit databases. Though not a direct correlation to firearms sales, the NSSF-adjusted NICS data provide a more accurate picture of current market conditions. In addition to other purposes, NICS is used to check transactions of firearms sales and transfers on new and used handguns and long guns.