NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- People may be strapped for cash right now, but one thing they're not willing to scrimp on is their personal protection.

Video: State Makes Gun Sales History On Black Friday

Gun sales in Tennessee are reaching record levels. More guns were sold on Black Friday than on any other day in the state's history.

Even in the middle of the week, when most people are at work, business at one Robertson County gun dealer is booming.

Guns and Leather is the second largest gun dealer in the state. Managers said sales there have gone up more than 300 percent since the election.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation runs a background check every time a gun is sold across the state. It has been bombarded with work: More than 38,000 checks this November as compared to just 24,000 in November of last year.

Julie Carter said she can believe it. She's been to five different stores looking for the gun her son wants for Christmas. She said she began researching online in July, and where there once was stock there now is not.

With December traditionally the hottest month of the year for gun sales, it remains to be seen whether another record will be shattered.

TBI spokeswoman Kristin Helm said that the increase in work is a bit overwhelming as workload has doubled.

Since the election, 46,382 guns have been sold in Tennessee, not including those sold Thursday.

Many have said the economy played a role in their decision to buy a weapon.