Next month, major components of the so-called NY SAFE Act, the state's tough gun-control law approved in January, are supposed to take effect. But some gun owners and businesses are still unclear about what parts of the law will be enforced on schedule.

Ammunition dealers had been told that they would have to conduct background checks of customers and record sales starting Jan. 15.

But state police have confirmed that the background-check deadline has been delayed indefinitely because of technical reasons.

"The State database is currently under construction and not operational, and prior notice will be given to all sellers on a timely basis before the database is completed and any requirements are relevant," says an open letter from the New York State police superintendent.

The law requires that by Jan. 15, all sellers of ammunition must register with the state police. Sellers holding a valid federal firearms license will be registered automatically, but other businesses must fill out a registration form.