Note: In this summary, the term "firearm" has been used in its general sense, i.e., any rifle, shotgun or handgun. However, readers of the Massachusetts law should be aware that the term "firearm," when it appears in the text of the statutes, has a special meaning, being defined as any pistol, revolver or other firearm with a barrel of less than 16 inches or a shotgun with a barrel length less than 18 inches.
Notes
1. "Large capacity weapon" is any firearm that is semiautomatic with a fixed large capacity feeding device, or capable or readily modifiable to accept such a detachable feeding device, or employs a rotating cylinder capable of accepting more than 5 shotgun shells or more than 10 rounds of other ammunition, or that is an "assault weapon." "Assault weapon" has the same meaning as federal law. "Large capacity feeding device" is a magazine or similar device holding more than 5 rounds of shotgun ammunition or more than 10 rounds of other ammunition.2. Regarding current holders of lifetime cards, the card expires in 1999 (if birthday is between July 1 and Dec. 31) or 2000 (birthday is between Jan. 1 and June 30). Any card holder on the effective date of the present law who lawfully possesses a large capacity rifle or shotgun shall be deemed to have a class B license for purposes of possession and must timely apply for the proper license, and any license holder lawfully possessing a large capacity handgun shall be deemed to have a class A license and must timely apply for the proper license. Any person who acquires ownership or possession of any firearm, firearm feeding device, or ammunition must apply for the appropriate card or license. See possession for how to acquire a card, license, or permit.
CITATION: Mass. Statutes relating to firearms are: Part I, Chap. 140, §§121 to 131 I; Part II, Chap. 269, §§10 to 12 E.
Source: National Rifle Association of America, Institute for Legislative Action
