This day in history (Hey, Massachusetts, pay attention)

April 19th, 1775.  The British had declared Massachusetts to be in a state of rebellion and the British Army was ordered to capture and destroy their military supplies (also known as guns and ammunition) which were stored at Concord.  The battles of Lexington and Concord ensued.

Meanwhile, in Massachusetts, two hundred and forty years later:

• There are 33 steps that you must go through to purchase a handgun
• You can't have more than 10,000 rounds of ammunition without a permit
• There is an approved list of firearms that can be legally sold in Massachusetts
• You can't buy a handgun unless you have a carry permit
• Carry permits are issued on a "may issue" basis which means that the police chief gets to decide if you are allowed to defend yourself (hint: you generally won't be allowed)
• You can only own "high capacity" (more than ten rounds) magazines or firearms if you have the right kind of carry permit AND the firearm is on the approved list
• "Assault" weapons are basically banned.  Keep in mind that "assault weapons", as defined by the media, the anti-gun left, and Massachusetts, are not actually assault weapons.  They are commonly available semi-automatic actions which are installed in a rifle with certain cosmetic features such as collapsible stocks, flash suppressors, pistol grips, and detachable magazines

Oh, by the way, there are "standards" that have to be met before you can buy a firearm not on the approved list.  Unfortunately the state Attorney General refuses to actually answer questions on whether a firearm meets the standards, and refers you to your lawyer.

This is only a quick synopsis based on a speed review of the GOAL website and some of the Massachusetts state government websites on gun ownership.  Fortunately for me my father left Boston 45 years ago and I didn't have to grow up in a totalitarian state.

Freedom, baby.  Happy Anniversary, Massachusettsians.  Do you even remember why you fought those battles?

Thanks to No Lawyers, Only Guns and Money for pointing out this anniversary.