Massachusetts Gun Laws & Firearms Safety Practice Exam

Which of the following firearms is restricted from civilian ownership in Massachusetts without proper licensing?

1. Bolt-action rifles

2. Semi-automatic shotguns

3. Large capacity firearms

4. Non-lethal pepper spray

The correct answer is: Large capacity firearms

The correct choice highlights that large capacity firearms are restricted from civilian ownership in Massachusetts without proper licensing. In the state, a large capacity firearm is defined as any firearm capable of accepting a magazine with a capacity greater than ten rounds. This specific regulation is part of the state's efforts to enhance public safety and control access to more powerful firearms. Both bolt-action rifles and semi-automatic shotguns, under certain conditions, may be owned by civilians without the same level of restrictions as large capacity firearms. Additionally, non-lethal pepper spray is not classified as a firearm and generally does not require the same licensing procedures, making these options less relevant to the question regarding restrictions on civilian ownership.