Tom Gresham's GUNTALK - 2.8.15 Part A

Published on February 9, 2015
Duration: 44:45

In Massachusetts, firearm ownership and carrying are discretionary, requiring a license issued by the local police chief. This 'may issue' license is typically a license to carry, valid for six years and costing $100, but requires an approved firearm safety course beforehand. While police chiefs have discretion, blanket denials are rare, though 'suitability' can be a reason for denial. The Bartley Fox law, carrying a potential one-year jail sentence for unlicensed firearm possession, is rarely prosecuted directly, with charges often shifted to lesser offenses like ammunition possession without a license. Despite strict regulations, competitive shooting disciplines like IDPA and USPSA are experiencing significant growth in the state.

Quick Summary

In Massachusetts, firearm ownership and carrying are discretionary, requiring a 'may issue' License to Carry (LTC) from the local police chief. This license, valid for six years and costing $100, necessitates a prior approved firearm safety course. While discretionary, blanket denials are rare, though 'suitability' can be a reason for denial. The Bartley Fox law, though strict, is seldom prosecuted directly, with charges often shifted to ammunition possession without a license.

Chapters

  1. 02:06Gun Talk Expands to Northeast: Boston, MA
  2. 13:33Open Carry Debates: ARs and SKSs in Public
  3. 14:47Moms Demand Action vs. Raisin Canes
  4. 24:07Gun Ownership in Massachusetts with COM2A
  5. 25:23Process to Buy a Handgun in MA
  6. 26:55Suitability and Due Process for MA Licenses
  7. 27:18Bartley Fox Law and Ammunition Possession
  8. 28:35FOPA and Travel Through Massachusetts
  9. 29:24Shooters and Hunters in Massachusetts
  10. 29:53COM2A: Legal Advocacy for Gun Rights
  11. 30:34COM2A Lawsuit Against Three Towns

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main requirements to own a handgun in Massachusetts?

To own a handgun in Massachusetts, you must first obtain a License to Carry (LTC) from your local police chief. This is a 'may issue' license, requiring an approved firearm safety course and costing $100, valid for six years. Issuance is at the discretion of the police chief.

Is carrying a firearm in public easy in Massachusetts?

No, carrying a firearm in public in Massachusetts is discretionary and requires a License to Carry (LTC). While most LTCs are also licenses to carry, they can be restricted, and the process involves police chief approval, making it not a guaranteed right.

What is the Bartley Fox Law in Massachusetts?

The Bartley Fox Law in Massachusetts mandates a one-year jail sentence for first-offense unlicensed firearm possession. However, it's rarely prosecuted directly; instead, individuals are often charged with lesser offenses like possessing ammunition without a license.

How does Massachusetts compare to New York and New Jersey regarding gun laws?

Massachusetts gun laws are considered less restrictive than those in New York and New Jersey, though they are still significantly more stringent than in many other states. Massachusetts requires a discretionary license for firearm ownership and carry.

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