Depends on many factors
That map isn't entirely accurate - lists two towns I've lived in as red - but that wasn't the case. In the first town I was converting from a non-resident permit, and the second was just a move.
Keep in mind - the more credentials you have, and the better prepared you are (NRA, state-approved course certificates, perhaps more than one), using the correct phraseology on the application - dress up for the interview, etc,. etc. - the better your chance for a uneventful application or renewal.
For renewals it is pretty straightforward (unless there is a new, anti chief.) For first time applicants, not only do the above, but perhaps also consult with a firearms attorney. That is especially if there is anything in your background, no matter how long ago. Spending some money of expert advice is usually much cheaper than trying to fight for an upgrade, or a denial.
Also, keep in mind it can depend on the police official who does the permits. In two cases (out of six renewals) the person was gruff, and asked unauthorized questions. I was polite, non-confrontational - and simply referred to the information on the application or answered their questions with minimal additional information. In both cases they simply moved on with the process. To me that doesn't make them red towns - but your mileage may differ.
Bottom line - you need to know how to deal with the authorities (police) - that's where the legal counsel can help you if you don't have experience in those kinds of situations (meaning getting what you want from someone who may not want to give it to you - or is looking for a disqualifier.)
By the way - for permits - there tend to be two Massachusetts - those within Route 128 - and those outside.
That map isn't entirely accurate - lists two towns I've lived in as red - but that wasn't the case. In the first town I was converting from a non-resident permit, and the second was just a move.
Keep in mind - the more credentials you have, and the better prepared you are (NRA, state-approved course certificates, perhaps more than one), using the correct phraseology on the application - dress up for the interview, etc,. etc. - the better your chance for a uneventful application or renewal.
For renewals it is pretty straightforward (unless there is a new, anti chief.) For first time applicants, not only do the above, but perhaps also consult with a firearms attorney. That is especially if there is anything in your background, no matter how long ago. Spending some money of expert advice is usually much cheaper than trying to fight for an upgrade, or a denial.
Also, keep in mind it can depend on the police official who does the permits. In two cases (out of six renewals) the person was gruff, and asked unauthorized questions. I was polite, non-confrontational - and simply referred to the information on the application or answered their questions with minimal additional information. In both cases they simply moved on with the process. To me that doesn't make them red towns - but your mileage may differ.
Bottom line - you need to know how to deal with the authorities (police) - that's where the legal counsel can help you if you don't have experience in those kinds of situations (meaning getting what you want from someone who may not want to give it to you - or is looking for a disqualifier.)
By the way - for permits - there tend to be two Massachusetts - those within Route 128 - and those outside.