Massachusetts Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

Which of the following firearms is a Massachusetts resident prohibited from owning without a specific license?

1. Bolt-action rifle

2. Semi-automatic rifle with a fixed magazine capacity of 15 rounds

3. Non-large capacity shotguns

4. Large capacity firearms

The correct answer is: Large capacity firearms

In Massachusetts, residents are subject to strict regulations regarding the ownership of firearms, especially concerning large capacity firearms. A large capacity firearm is defined as any firearm that has the ability to accept a magazine or feeding device that holds more than ten rounds, or is a semi-automatic shotgun with a capacity of more than five shells. To legally own such firearms, individuals must acquire a specific license, known as the Large Capacity Firearm License (LTC). This requirement exists to ensure that individuals owning firearms that can hold more ammunition have undergone the necessary background checks and training to handle them safely. The other firearm categories mentioned can be owned without a specific license under certain conditions; for instance, non-large capacity shotguns and bolt-action rifles generally do not have the same stringent regulations. The semi-automatic rifle with a fixed magazine capacity of 15 rounds falls under additional scrutiny, but it is not classified as a large capacity firearm that requires that specific license. Thus, the requirement for specific licensing is primarily focused on large capacity firearms, making it the correct choice.