Sell and transfer of gun to Massachusetts Resident?

[Hoosier45]

A gentleman from MA bid on a 1952 FN Hi-power P35 pistol I had for sale and I am trying to find out if he can legally take possession of it. I'm a C&R FFL holder myself and strictly follow all laws and this pistol will only go to a FFL in MA. However, I want to find out if the FFL in MA can then transfer this gun to the man. I don't want that FFL to have to send the gun back to me if that makes sense. I'm awaiting a response from the buyer now to confirm he can legally take possession of the item, and perhaps I should just have his FFL contact me and discuss with them as they should know operating an FFL in the state. Can anyone shed light on this please. Here is what I sent the man based upon my readings of MA code.

"Thank you for your purchase of the FN Hi-Power I have for sale. Prior to sending an invoice or your payment can you please provide evidence that you can legally take possession of this pistol given its "high-capacity" magazine and legal restrictions in the state of Massachusetts. The gun has to be shipped to an FFL, but I need to know that the FFL can then transfer this pistol to you. For example do you possess a Class A Massachusetts carry license or are ex-LEO/active duty military which would allow you to legally possess this firearm."

Thanks everyone. And I know this is a 13-Rd magazine "pre-ban".

 

[Squarebutt]

As I understand it, it is legal for the buyer to own the gun as long as he has the proper MA license. The issue is one for the FFL to decide. Some are more liberal in their understanding of the laws. Your buyer should talk to a few different dealers.

 

[wnwitzell]

Mass has quite a list of taboo guns. There's an online list. I just transfers a Colt Python to my brother, FFL to FFL, who has all the appropriate permits to legally own a firearm there. It's hard to find an FFL willing to transfer anything though....

 

[bankjob]

Find out which FFL he is going to use and call him.

Search the FFL Holder Network at GunBroker.com

 

[turbo38gn]

Pretty simple, BJ nailed IT, get the FFL info you must have anyways.... contact the FFL, like you are supposed to, and just ask if he will transfer gun... done deal... Being from Ma and having purchased many guns on GB, from out of state.... that's the way it's done.

 

[Bill Bates]

This may a tough transfer. Mass. has an "approved list" when it comes to handguns much like California. If it isn't on the list then it is pretty much a no go. I don't know if they have a C&R exemption like California.

Also for older handguns not on the state list the individual handgun must have been previously owned and registered in the state of Massachusetts before a certain year (thinking 1996 or there about) to come back into the state and be transferred.

I would think your best course is to call an FFL or two in Massachusetts that are use to dealing with their laws.

 

[Hoov]

It might be easier for the buyer to move.

 

[turbo38gn]

For the record... just called my go to FFL..... he said he wouldn't touch it... And for the record, he is a very conservative dealer, stays away from anything with question... I know of others that are just the opposite...

 

[turbo38gn]

yep, we have all kinds of FFL's here... my guy didn't even hesitate when I told him the model and year of manufacture....

 

[howiema]

The bottom line is that the gun is pre 1998 and it is legal to transfer in MA, If you have troubles let me know I will get it transferred for you. There are no laws broken with that gun. The funny thing is some dealers hear FN and they dont even care what year it was.

Pete

 

[Hoosier45]

Thanks for all of the help and insights. The buyer ended up being an FFL and has the appropriate carry license. It's a serial matching firearm with serial matching magazine. We should be squared away legally. Take care, and everyone still in MA I suggest you move haha. Not that Indiana has much more to offer.