Got a friend who just moved from NYC to Boston and wants to get his first handgun.  Anyone from Mass. (especially Boston area) that can advise on what the laws are up there?  Is there a state preemption on firearms laws or does Boston have its own ridiculous rules like NYC?  Any sort of licenses or permits for mere possession?  Is CCW even possible?  

From what I've heard about NYC, Mass is generally easier. They have state requirements but, and this is the stinger..each city/town
police department makes the decision if they are going to ok the permit or not. Some Chiefs won't approve any at all. The State law leaves the approval up to the local PD. Boston does give out licenses for CCW, but they are more difficult to obtain than other cities or towns.
I live about 20 miles South of Boston, and the Chief pretty much issues them to any qualified applicant.

Here are 2 sites for info:
www.goal.org - Gun Owners Action League of Mass.
              Has a lot of info/advice.

http://www.state.ma.us/chsb/FRB.html
           - State Agency. Has requirements and
             downloadable applications.

Neil

Boston is very tough. The mayor is very anti. The best place for accurate information is [url]http://www.goal.org/index.shtml[/url]. E-mail or phone them. They are about the only organization in this state working to preserve our Constitutional Rights. You might even want to send them a couple bucks to keep up the fight.