Whether you are interested in owning a firearm for hunting, range shooting, or simply for peace of mind, it’s important to know what types of guns are legal to own in your home state. This is because federal and state laws differ, and restrictions vary from state to state.
In Massachusetts, in order to purchase or possess any gun, you must qualify and obtain a Firearm Identification Card (FID) or a License to Carry (LTC). These licenses allow you to purchase, possess, or transport your weapon, ammunition, and component materials.
Even with these licenses, there are certain gun types that are illegal to purchase or possess in Massachusetts, including:
- Machine guns
- Sawed-off shotguns
- Semi-automatic rifles
- Semi-automatic, defense, and box-fed shotguns
- Any firearm with a removed or altered serial mark or identification number
- Assault rifles
There are certain licenses, typically issued to approved firearm instructors or bona fide collectors, that might allow you to own antiques, machine guns, or modified shotguns. Because of the dangerous nature of these weapons, extensive requirements are needed to be approved for these licenses by the colonel of state police or other licensing authority.
If you have researched the type of gun you are interested, but want to ensure that it is legal to possess in Massachusetts, the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security has a complete roster of approved firearms.
Additionally, it is important to note that there are restrictions on ammunition and accessories. The two most often cited restrictions are:
- Magazines exceeding a 10-round capacity are prohibited without a specialized license
- Silencers and any other device used to muffle the noise of a firearm are prohibited
What Circumstances Disqualify You from Legal Gun Possession?
There are some circumstances where it is illegal to own any type of firearm. Specifically, if you have:
- A felony conviction
- Been dishonorably discharged from any of the United States armed forces
- An outstanding arrest warrant in any federal or state jurisdiction
- Been convicted of a violent crime or a misdemeanor punishable by two+ years of imprisonment
- Renounced your U.S. citizenship or are an illegal immigrant
- Been the subject of a domestic violence restraining order
- A documented history of substance abuse
- Been involuntarily committed to a mental institution
Additionally, Massachusetts has specific age restrictions for owning a firearm. Typically, no one under 18 may purchase a gun or ammunition, and no one under 21 is allowed to purchase a handgun or large-capacity weapon. However, there are certain instances where a minor may possess a firearm under the guidance and approval of their parent or guardian.
Have You Been Charged with a Gun Crime in MA?
Gun restrictions go through periodic updates, so while the above list outlines current restrictions, it is by no means exhaustive. At Brad Bailey Law, we understand that navigating the law can be challenging to do on your own, and our attorneys take protecting your Second Amendment rights seriously. We have extensive experience representing those who have been accused of federal gun crimes. Our entire legal team works together to develop a comprehensive and aggressive strategy.
Call our team today at (617) 500-0252 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation.