Gun sales skyrocket amid Obama concerns

DENVER, Nov. 7 (UPI) -- Sales of handguns and rifles have skyrocketed across the United States amid fears President-elect Barack Obama will curtail firearm laws, figures show.

A Colorado Bureau of Investigation spokesman said a one-day record for background check requests for firearm purchases was set last weekend in the state thanks to concerns that an Obama administration would mean stricter gun laws, The New York Times said Friday.

"We're not really sure who is promoting the concept that a change in federal administrations might affect firearms possession rights," agency spokesman Lance Clem said of last Saturday's record, "but we do know that it's increased business considerably."

David Nelson, who owns a gun supply store in Missoula, Mont., said his store's firearms sales have increased 30 percent since the Illinois Democrat began his presidential run.

"People are concerned about overreaching legislation from Washington," the Montana Ordnance & Supply owner told the Times. "They are educating themselves on the Internet."