Handgun Laws In Massachusetts: Understanding Large Capacity

what constitutes a large capacity handgun in ma

In Massachusetts, a large-capacity handgun is defined as any firearm with the ability to accept more than 10 rounds of ammunition. This definition applies to both handguns that are semiautomatic or equipped with a fixed magazine. Large-capacity handguns are legal in Massachusetts, but they require a special license called a Large Capacity Firearm License (LTC-A) for ownership. An LTC is also required to purchase ammunition. Possessing a large-capacity handgun without an LTC-A is a criminal offense in Massachusetts and can result in legal penalties and potential imprisonment.

Characteristics Values
Definition Any firearm with the ability to accept more than 10 rounds of ammunition. This definition applies to both handguns that are semiautomatic or equipped with a fixed magazine.
Legality Legal in Massachusetts, but require a special license called a Large Capacity Firearm License (LTC-A) for ownership.
Requirements for LTC-A Eligibility criteria, application, firearms safety course, background check, and other local requirements.
Non-residents Can own large capacity handguns with a non-resident LTC-A.
LTC-A renewal Every six years.
Ammunition restrictions None, but localities may have additional regulations.
Modifying firearms Illegal in Massachusetts.
Law enforcement and military exemptions Yes, exemptions exist.
Transportation Allowed in a vehicle if unloaded, securely stored, and with a valid LTC-A.
Ownership restrictions No specific limit to the number of large capacity handguns one can own.
Sale and possession of magazines Restricted.

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In Massachusetts, a large capacity handgun is defined as any firearm with the ability to accept more than 10 rounds of ammunition. This definition applies to both handguns that are semiautomatic or equipped with a fixed magazine. While large capacity handguns are legal in Massachusetts, they require a special license called a Large Capacity Firearm License (LTC-A) for ownership. An LTC-A license must be renewed every six years.

To obtain an LTC-A in Massachusetts, one must meet certain eligibility criteria, complete an application, take a firearms safety course, pass a background check, and fulfill other requirements set by local authorities. Possessing a large capacity handgun without an LTC-A is a criminal offense in Massachusetts and can result in legal penalties and potential imprisonment.

Massachusetts has specific laws and regulations regarding the sale and possession of firearms, including large capacity handguns. The state restricts the sale of handguns not appearing on an "approved firearms roster" issued periodically and prohibits the sale or possession of certain firearms deemed to be "assault weapons". Massachusetts gun dealers may only sell handguns that appear on a state-approved firearms roster, although this does not prohibit LTC holders from lawfully possessing other handguns.

Assault weapons are defined as semiautomatic firearms with specific features, such as the ability to accept detachable magazines and having certain types of grips, stocks, or launchers. These definitions and restrictions are outlined in the state's statutes and are subject to change over time.

It is important to note that non-residents can own large capacity handguns in Massachusetts as long as they obtain a non-resident LTC-A. There are no specific ammunition restrictions for large capacity handguns, but some localities may have additional regulations in place. Additionally, modifying a firearm to accept more rounds than its original capacity is illegal in Massachusetts.

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The LTC-A license must be renewed every six years

In Massachusetts, a "large capacity weapon" is defined as any firearm, rifle, or shotgun that meets at least one of the following criteria:

  • Semiautomatic with a fixed large-capacity feeding device
  • Semiautomatic and capable of accepting, or readily modifiable to accept, any detachable large-capacity feeding device
  • Employs a rotating cylinder capable of accepting more than ten rounds of ammunition in a rifle or firearm and more than five shotgun shells in a shotgun or firearm
  • Classified as an assault weapon

It is important to note that the term "large capacity weapon" is a secondary designation and does not include weapons manufactured before 1899, weapons operated by manual bolt, pump, lever, or slide action, single-shot weapons, or weapons that have been modified to be permanently inoperable.

Regarding the LTC-A license, it is crucial to understand the renewal process to maintain compliance with the law and ensure uninterrupted firearm possession privileges. The LTC-A license, also known as the License to Carry, is valid for a maximum of six years from the date of issue. This means that license holders must renew their LTC-A license before it expires to avoid any disruption in their ability to legally carry a firearm.

The renewal process for the LTC-A license in Massachusetts typically involves the following steps:

  • License holders should receive a notice and renewal form from the Massachusetts Firearms Record Bureau at least 90 days before their license expires.
  • The renewal process includes a state and federal background check, a fingerprint-based background check, and a check with the Department of Mental Health.
  • Once the renewal application is processed and approved, the individual will be contacted by their local licensing authority to pick up their renewed license.
  • It is important to stay proactive and meet eligibility criteria to ensure a seamless renewal experience and maintain compliance with legal requirements.

By adhering to the renewal process and maintaining a valid LTC-A license, individuals in Massachusetts can continue to legally carry firearms and exercise their rights under applicable state laws.

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There are no specific ammunition restrictions for large capacity handguns

In Massachusetts, a large capacity handgun is defined as any firearm with the ability to accept more than 10 rounds of ammunition. This definition applies to both handguns that are semiautomatic or equipped with a fixed magazine. The state prohibits the sale, offering for sale, transfer, or possession of large-capacity feeding devices. A "large capacity feeding device" is defined as a fixed or detachable magazine, box, drum, feed strip, or similar device that has a capacity of, or can be readily converted to accept, more than ten rounds of ammunition.

To own a large capacity handgun in Massachusetts, you must obtain a Large Capacity Firearm License (LTC-A). This license must be renewed every six years and requires meeting eligibility criteria, completing an application, taking a firearms safety course, passing a background check, and fulfilling other requirements set by local authorities.

While there are no specific ammunition restrictions for large capacity handguns in Massachusetts, modifying a firearm to accept more rounds than its original capacity is illegal. Additionally, some localities may have their own regulations in place. It is important to note that magazines holding more than 10 rounds are unlawful in Massachusetts, except for law enforcement or "pre-ban" magazines manufactured before September 13, 1994.

Massachusetts also restricts the sale of handguns not appearing on an "approved firearms roster" and prohibits the sale or possession of certain firearms deemed "assault weapons." Assault weapons are defined as semiautomatic firearms with specific features, such as a pistol grip, folding stock, or the ability to accept a detachable magazine.

It is important to stay informed about the specific laws and regulations regarding firearms in your state, as they can vary and change over time.

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Modifying a firearm to accept more rounds than its original capacity is illegal

In Massachusetts, a large capacity handgun is defined as any firearm with the ability to accept more than 10 rounds of ammunition. This definition applies to both handguns that are semiautomatic or equipped with a fixed magazine. Modifying a firearm to accept more rounds than its original capacity is illegal in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts prohibits the sale, offering for sale, transfer or possession of a large-capacity feeding device. A "large capacity feeding device" is defined as a fixed or detachable magazine, box, drum, feed strip, or similar device that has a capacity of, or can be readily converted to accept, more than ten rounds of ammunition or more than five shotgun shells.

Massachusetts law restricts the sale and possession of large-capacity magazines for handguns. To purchase a firearm, one must obtain a Firearm Identification (FID) card or LTC, which requires the completion of a basic firearms safety course. An LTC is also required to buy ammunition. The former Class B license allowed for only the open carry of non-large capacity firearms, and no new Class B licenses are being issued.

To obtain an LTC-A in Massachusetts, one must meet certain eligibility criteria, complete an application, take a firearms safety course, pass a background check, and fulfill other requirements set by local authorities. Possessing a large capacity handgun without an LTC-A is a criminal offense in Massachusetts and can result in legal penalties and potential imprisonment.

Non-residents can own large capacity handguns in Massachusetts as long as they obtain a non-resident LTC-A, which must be renewed every six years. There are no specific ammunition restrictions for large capacity handguns, but some localities may have additional regulations in place.

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Possessing a large-capacity handgun without an LTC-A is a criminal offense

In Massachusetts, a large capacity handgun is defined as any firearm with the ability to accept more than 10 rounds of ammunition. This definition applies to both handguns that are semiautomatic or equipped with a fixed magazine. Large capacity handguns are legal in Massachusetts, but they require a special license called a Large Capacity Firearm License (LTC-A) for ownership.

To obtain an LTC-A in Massachusetts, you must meet certain eligibility criteria, complete an application, take a firearms safety course, pass a background check, and fulfill other requirements set by local authorities. Possessing a large-capacity handgun without an LTC-A is a criminal offense in Massachusetts and can result in legal penalties and potential imprisonment.

The former Class B license allowed for only the open carry of non-large capacity firearms. Due to revisions to licensure, there may be Class B licenses that are still valid, however, no new Class B licenses are being issued. Concealed carry is legal in Massachusetts for individuals who have a Massachusetts LTC or a formerly issued, valid Class A LTC.

Non-residents can own large capacity handguns in Massachusetts as long as they obtain a non-resident LTC-A. In Massachusetts, LTC-A licenses must be renewed every six years. There are no specific ammunition restrictions for large capacity handguns, but some localities may have additional regulations in place. Modifying a firearm to accept more rounds than its original capacity is illegal in Massachusetts.

Frequently asked questions

In Massachusetts, a large-capacity handgun is defined as any firearm with the ability to accept more than 10 rounds of ammunition. This definition applies to both handguns that are semiautomatic or equipped with a fixed magazine.

To legally purchase and possess a large-capacity handgun in Massachusetts, you need a Large Capacity Firearm License (LTC-A). Non-residents can obtain a non-resident LTC-A. LTC-As must be renewed every six years.

Yes, Massachusetts law restricts the sale and possession of large-capacity magazines for handguns. Possessing a large-capacity handgun without an LTC-A is a criminal offense in Massachusetts and can result in legal penalties and potential imprisonment.

Yes, exemptions exist for certain law enforcement officers and members of the military.

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