The modern reference for Massachusetts firearms law.
Every statute tracked, every change documented, every source cited.
Massachusetts prohibits suppressor possession absolutely, with no NFA exception. Federal law permits a person to have dual residency in two states simultaneously, and an NFA transfer can be completed in any state where the buyer is a resident. A Massachusetts resident who genuinely maintains a New Hampshire residence can legally purchase and own a suppressor through their NH residency — provided the suppressor never enters Massachusetts.
Chapter 135 of the Acts of 2024 is the most comprehensive overhaul of Massachusetts firearms law in decades. Signed on October 2, 2024, with key provisions taking effect on April 2, 2026 and a universal registration deadline of October 28, 2026, the law touches every aspect of firearms ownership.
Every firearms owner in Massachusetts must register all firearms through the MIRCS Unified Gun Portal by October 28, 2026. This guide explains the registration process, who must register, what firearms are covered, and the penalties for non-compliance.
Massachusetts restricts dealer handgun sales through a three-layer system: the EOPSS Approved Firearms Roster, the AG's 940 CMR 16.00 consumer protection regulations, and AG enforcement notices. Frame transfers allow LTC holders to legally obtain handguns that are blocked at the dealer level by purchasing a serialized frame and parts separately, then assembling and registering the completed firearm.
Massachusetts law allows licensed individuals to sell firearms privately, but strict rules apply. This guide covers the 4-transfer annual limit, eFA-10 filing requirements, Chapter 135 changes, and what both buyers and sellers must know.
Massachusetts may deny your LTC application based on statutory disqualifiers or a suitability finding. This guide covers prohibited person categories, OUI/CWOF impact, restraining orders, drug use, the interview process, and how to appeal a denial.
A unanimous First Circuit panel held on April 3, 2026 in Beckwith v. Frey that the Second Amendment does not protect the right to acquire firearms, upholding Maine's 72-hour waiting period. The ruling is binding precedent in Massachusetts and directly impacts the Hanlon and Granata challenges to Chapter 135.
Granata v. Campbell is a First Circuit appeal challenging the Massachusetts Approved Firearms Roster and 940 CMR 16.00 regulations. The U.S. DOJ filed an amicus brief January 28, 2026 urging reversal, reversing the prior administration's position. Oral argument held April 4, 2026. Fully briefed as of April 16, 2026; decision pending.
On November 3, 2026, Massachusetts voters will decide whether to keep or repeal Chapter 135, the comprehensive firearms reform law. This article explains how the ballot question works, what a YES and NO vote means, who is on each side, and what happens if the law is repealed.
House Bill 2621 would establish mandatory "Critical Incident Leave" for law enforcement officers involved in firearm discharge incidents. The bill has passed second reading and been ordered to a third reading — the furthest any firearms-related bill has advanced this session.
House Bill 2590 would make firearm owners civilly liable for damage caused by their lost or stolen firearms. The bill has been placed in the Orders of the Day for a second reading, signaling strong committee support.
House Bill 2672 would create legal avenues for gun violence victims to hold the firearm industry accountable, potentially allowing lawsuits against manufacturers and dealers. The bill passed committee favorably and has been referred to House Ways and Means.
House Bill 2733 would require a comprehensive audit of how Massachusetts allocates and spends gun violence prevention and intervention funding. The bill passed committee favorably and has been referred to House Ways and Means.
Senate Bill 397 would promote safe firearm storage education and student well-being by integrating storage safety awareness into school programming. The bill passed committee favorably and has been referred to Senate Ways and Means.
| Make | Model | Added |
|---|---|---|
| Sig Sauer | 365X-9-BXR3P-MS-MA | Sep 9, 202509/09/25 |
| Sig Sauer | M17-9-CSS-MS-MA | Sep 9, 202509/09/25 |
| Sig Sauer | M18 | Sep 9, 202509/09/25 |
| Heritage Manufacturing | Roscoe | Sep 9, 202509/09/25 |
| Kimber | Micro 9 Shadow Ghost | Sep 9, 202509/09/25 |
| Kimber | Micro 9 Two-Tone | Sep 9, 202509/09/25 |
Current Massachusetts firearms statutes and regulations
Firearms licensing requirements
Step-by-step guides for firearms compliance
Searchable database of approved firearms
Frequently asked questions about MA gun law
Legislative updates and legal developments