The Specifics

Firearm Identification or license to carry required. Firearm registration is not specifically required by law, however transfers of firearm ownership are required to be recorded with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security by the seller if in state or by the buyer if out of state. Massachusetts is a "may issue" state for concealed carry; the issuing authority is the local police chief for most jurisdictions. There are several different types of concealed carry licenses. CCW issuance varies within the state. Counties closer to large cities are de facto no-issue, whereas more rural counties have shall/reasonable issuance policies. Restrictions can be put on any type of permit however, such as only while target shooting and hunting. Permits are valid state wide as long as you are carrying in the manner you are allowed to. Open carry is legal in some areas with a concealed carry license but generally is discouraged by law enforcement. It is Illegal to possess magazines of over 10 rounds capacity unless manufactured prior to 09/13/1994, and one has a LTC-A.