Very Restrictive
Massachusetts Gun Laws 2026
Massachusetts gun law rating: A (Very Restrictive). Ranked #2 out of 50 states for gun law strength. Key policies: permitless carry (No), red flag law (Yes), assault weapons ban (Yes).
A
Overall Grade
#2
State Rank (strength)
Permitless Carry: No
Constitutional Carry
Red Flag: Yes
ERPO Law
Key Gun Law Provisions
| Provision | Status |
|---|---|
| Permitless (Constitutional) Carry | No |
| Red Flag Law (ERPO) | Yes |
| Assault Weapons Ban | Yes |
| Universal Background Checks (private sales) | Yes |
| Waiting Period | None (FID required) |
| Magazine Capacity Limit | 10 rounds |
Overview
Massachusetts ties with Hawaii for second-strictest gun laws. The state requires a Firearms Identification Card (FID) or License to Carry (LTC), has an assault weapons ban, and requires all purchases to go through licensed dealers.
2026 Political Impact
Massachusetts has some of the lowest gun death rates in the nation. Gun control advocates cite it as evidence that strict laws work; opponents argue other factors are responsible.