I lived in Massachusetts for 45 years before moving to Virginia in 1999. It's sad to see what has happened to the Right to Keep and Bear Arms in my ex-home state. Mass was never friendly to the gunowner in my lifetime but I never had to deal with the anti-gun hysteria you guys deal with now. When I lived there FID's cost $2 and were good for life or until revoked. Pistol permits for hunting and target only cost $20 I think and were good 3 or 4 years. But you could get them although the local Police Chief could deny it if he didn't like the way you looked. I used to buy ammo mail order in Mass but I see some online dealer post a message like "No Sales to MA". Even C & R license holders can't just order any ATF C & R eligible firearm. No, it must be on the states own C & R list too which isn't the same as ATF's.

It's a different culture altogether in Virginia as far as firearms ownship is concerned. No license required to buy or own rifles, shotguns, or handguns. Just an instant background check for each purchase. A permit is required for concealed carry but it's easy to get. If you have no criminal record and apply for a concealed carry permit, you pay $50 and get it 2 months later. No one interrogates you about why you want or need it. The state considers that your business.

In Mass, the state treats the gunowner like a criminal until he proves otherwise. Here, it's the criminals that get treated like criminals. I hope Mass gunowners can turn it around someday. I may come back to retire there.