Open Carry in Massachusetts
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Massachusetts prohibits open carry of handguns; long guns may be openly carried with a valid firearms license.
How Massachusetts treats Open Carry
Massachusetts law effectively bans open carry of pistols and revolvers in public, even with a license. Long guns (rifles and shotguns) may be carried openly if you hold a valid Massachusetts Firearms Identification Card or License to Carry. Local police chiefs have broad discretion in issuing licenses and may impose additional restrictions. The state treats open carry as a licensed privilege rather than a right.
The general definition of Open Carry
The legal right to carry a firearm openly and visibly in public.
Open carry means carrying a firearm in plain view on your person or in a vehicle in public spaces. Unlike concealed carry, the weapon is visible to others. Open carry laws vary widely by state and sometimes by city or county within a state. Some states allow open carry without any permit, while others prohibit it entirely or require a permit even for visible firearms.
Read the full Open Carry entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.