Massachusetts Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

What does the term 'large capacity weapon' refer to in Massachusetts law?

1. Any firearm, rifle, or shotgun that can accept more than 10 rounds

2. Any semi-automatic weapon

3. Any weapon with a barrel length of more than 18 inches

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: Any firearm, rifle, or shotgun that can accept more than 10 rounds

The term 'large capacity weapon' as defined by Massachusetts law specifically refers to any firearm that can accept more than 10 rounds of ammunition. This definition is crucial because it establishes the legal framework for regulating firearms that have larger capacities, which the law considers to potentially pose a higher risk to public safety. By limiting the capacity of ammunition that can be used in firearms, Massachusetts aims to mitigate the risks associated with high-capacity magazines, such as increased lethality in violent situations. Although semi-automatic weapons and weapons with particular barrel lengths might have their own regulations, they do not inherently qualify as 'large capacity weapons' under this specific definition. Thus, understanding the distinction is essential for anyone navigating gun regulations in Massachusetts.