and I assume those numbers don't include guns sold to CCL holders who don't require checks.

I think that's a good assumption, BigDad, since there is no way for the Feds to get that information to add to these totals.

I bought a new pistol a two weeks ago and had it sent to my FFL.
It came in late in the day on the Monday after Christmas, he said there had been delays with the ATF between 2 hours and 3-5 days for approval so be prepared.
I went to the shop early the next morning, Tuesday and he apologized again and said it may take a while as a few he did previous week took 2 days.

I filled out the form and looked around the shop while he called it in.
After what seemed like 5 minutes, he said dang that hasn't happened in a while, here is your new pistol.

I called for an NICS check on Dec. 24

I was on hold for one minute. Then we went through the process in regular time.

And a record number of customers getting pissed because they think SOMEHOW, the fact they cant get their gun same-day is the gun shop's fault...

Get your LTC it's a non issue. Fill out the 4473 and walk, no call/check needed.

"They" continue to be quite the firearm sales people, don't "they?"