It's probably not your usual Christmastime purchase, but sales of one item this year may be breaking records. Our Steve Ference steps away from the debate about gun rights to give us the latest on why gun sales are hitting a higher target than ever this holiday season.

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NEW YORK STATE -- Hitting the stores to get that someone the perfect gift for the holidays.

"It borders on chaos, controlled chaos," said one store general manager.

You may have had to put up with long lines and lots of customers to purchase one of the best selling items and we're not talking flat screen TVs or kids toys.

That general manager is Frank Tybush, of B & J Guns, who said, "We have new shooters who say, ‘what gun should I have?’"

More people than ever may be filling their holsters for the holidays. There are no stats for New York yet, but gun shops will tell you it's like nothing they've seen before.

Tybush said, "We have been incredibly busy. It's going to be a record fall for us. Our Black Friday, our Thanksgiving push will end up being what our Christmas push is, but it's followed through."

Nationally, according to the FBI, background checks for Black Friday alone were up about 30 percent, meaning sales may have been even higher. And it's who is buying that may be the most surprising.

Tybush said, "Before it was mostly hunters. Now we're seeing young professionals, people starting families. And women coming in, wanting to find out about guns and not just handguns, but shotguns and the shooting sports."

All of this begging the question that we asked Tom King, the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association President: What's triggering people to buy so many guns? He says it's concerns over the 2012 election, perhaps a shaky economy and the usual fear of more gun laws in the future.

"This is a difference in social mores. It's a culture battle and no one wins a culture battle," said King.

While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, for those who are considering getting an alternative stocking stuffer this year, the experts do have some tips to keep in mind.

King said, "One, check with the New York State Rifle and Pistol Association for the rules in New York State. Second, if you're going to buy a firearm, take a safety course. Learn how to use the firearm properly."

"As long as they do it legally and within the intent of the law, it's not a bad thing," said Tybush.

Gun rights debate aside, it's a holiday sales trend gun dealers are aiming to continue into the New Year.