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.
Inheriting firearms in Massachusetts involves specific legal requirements including a 60-day grace period, licensing obligations, and registration through the eFA-10 system. This guide covers executor duties, out-of-state inheritance, non-compliant firearms, and step-by-step instructions.
The Massachusetts FID card allows you to purchase, possess, and carry certain rifles and shotguns. Chapter 135 significantly restricted FID privileges by removing semiautomatic firearms. This guide explains exactly what an FID permits and where the limits are.
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.
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.
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.
Two House bills address ammunition used for hunting in Massachusetts: H1047 would require nonlead ammunition for taking wildlife, and H1075 would reform rules on shotgun ammunition for hunting. Both had hearings in October 2025.
A roundup of additional firearms-related bills active in the 194th General Court that have not yet advanced past committee. These bills cover topics from annual affidavits and do-not-sell lists to the Civilian Marksmanship Program, law enforcement definitions, tax incentives for safe storage, and excise taxes on guns and ammunition.
Four House bills filed in the 194th General Court would amend Massachusetts firearms definitions and features-based classifications, addressing curios and relics, semiautomatic weapons, and general firearms features. All had hearings in October 2025.
Three House bills seek to reform various aspects of Massachusetts' firearms licensing system under Chapter 140, addressing concealed carry fairness, licensing equity, and restrictions on lawful handgun sales. All had hearings in October 2025.
Six House bills filed in the 194th General Court seek to protect or expand Second Amendment and civil rights related to firearms ownership in Massachusetts. All had hearings in October 2025 and remain in committee.
| 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