Firearm law reference
Massachusetts firearm laws
A plain-English overview of the firearm rules most relevant to buying and selling in Massachusetts — private-sale background checks, permits to purchase, restricted-firearm and magazine rules, handgun roster, waiting periods and ammunition. Federal law applies everywhere on top of these state rules.
At a glance
Reviewed 2026-06-26
What to watch for
- Important: Massachusetts requires private firearm transfers to go through a licensed dealer (background check).
- Important: Massachusetts: A Firearms Identification card or License to Carry is required to buy firearms and ammunition.
- Caution: Interstate transfers must ship to a licensed dealer (FFL) in the buyer's state for the background check; a private buyer can't take a handgun across state lines.
- Caution: Massachusetts restricts large-capacity magazines. Magazines over 10 rounds are typically restricted.
- Important: Massachusetts restricts "assault weapons" — certain semi-automatic firearms and features may be prohibited.
- Important: Massachusetts only permits sale of handguns on its approved roster.
- Note: Never transfer to a prohibited person or complete a straw purchase (buying for someone else) — both are federal crimes.
General information, not legal advice. Firearm laws change frequently and city or county ordinances may add requirements this summary doesn't capture. Verify the current law with the Massachusetts Attorney General or state police and consult a licensed attorney before any transfer. Last reviewed 2026-06-26.
Frequently asked
Does Massachusetts require a background check for private firearm sales?
Yes. Massachusetts requires private firearm transfers to go through a licensed dealer (FFL), who runs the background check.
Do you need a permit or license to buy a firearm in Massachusetts?
Yes. A Firearms Identification card or License to Carry is required to buy firearms and ammunition.
Does Massachusetts restrict "assault weapons"?
Yes. Massachusetts restricts certain semi-automatic firearms and features classified as "assault weapons." Confirm a specific model and configuration is permitted before buying or selling.
Are magazine-capacity limits in effect in Massachusetts?
Yes. Magazines over 10 rounds are typically restricted.
Is there a waiting period to receive a firearm in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts does not impose a state waiting period, though the federal background check must still clear before transfer.
Are there rules for buying ammunition in Massachusetts?
Yes. Massachusetts requires a Firearms Identification card or License to Carry to buy ammunition.
Buying or selling in Massachusetts?
Rangium shows these state-specific notes right on every listing, and Vanta can answer compliance questions against your own inventory. Rangium is a neutral listings venue — it never processes payment or ships firearms.