Massachusetts Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

Which of the following firearms is Massachusetts residents prohibited from owning without a proper license?

1. Air rifles

2. Pepper spray

3. Large capacity rifles or shotguns

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

In Massachusetts, the law is quite strict regarding the ownership of firearms and certain weapons. Residents must hold the appropriate licenses to possess many types of firearms. Specifically, large capacity rifles or shotguns are categorized under firearms that require a special license due to their potential to hold more than a certain number of rounds without reloading, which introduces additional public safety concerns. Other items like air rifles and pepper spray, while not classified the same way as firearms, are subject to their own legal regulations which can include licensing or restrictions based on the user's age or intent of use. While air rifles may not always require a license for ownership, their use must still comply with local ordinances and regulations, reflecting the overall emphasis on safety and responsible ownership in Massachusetts. As a result, the most comprehensive and accurate answer is that all of the listed items require proper licenses or are regulated under Massachusetts law, thus reflecting the state's commitment to firearm safety and regulation.