In Massachusetts, you can apply for a gun license, and can be turned down by your local police chief. If you want a conceal carry permit, you must write a letter to the Chief of Police and explain why. Here is the letter I wrote when I applied for my gun license:
*************************************************************
To the Chief of Police:
I wish to apply for a Class A Firearm License. While it is true that I have no current overriding need to carry a concealed firearm, I want to explain why I would like to be considered for this permit.
I currently do not own a gun, and my primary interest in becoming a firearm owner stems mostly from my initial desire to own and use historical items such as the M-1 Garand and Colt .45. My entry into the ranks of gun-owners has been drawn out and protracted due to other overriding interests and issues in my life that have taken priority, and it has been several years since I decided that I wanted to own a gun.
In that time, I have seen the events of 9/11, the rise of anti-Americanism in the Middle East, and recently, events in Russia, where the school was taken over by extremists with the resulting loss of innocent life. I understand that this is America and that things are different here, our society is different and these things are less likely to happen in our country.
But I (and many others) thought the same thing about an event like 9/11. And if we begin to see events like we are seeing more frequently in other parts of the world such as the murders at the school in Russia, I want to be able to protect myself and my family, should the situation arise.
I plan on purchasing a handgun, and I also plan to take courses on handgun safety and personal protection. Additionally, to improve my capability with the weapon, I am going to investigate the possibilities for engaging in competitive shooting at the gun club I join.
I would be grateful if you would grant me the legal privilege to carry a firearm, should the situation arise.
Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
*************************************************************
Note that it seems written with hat in hand. It was. They have absolute power to deny you your second amendment rights.
Tell the SOB he’ll be without a job if he decides otherwise.
There is no law officer in the country that could grant you the right to bear arms. You have that right when you’re born an American citizen to parents legally in this country (bugger off Liberals reading this). No policeman, no mayor, no sheriff, not even the President has the right themselves to say you cannot bear arms in defense of yourself and your loved ones.
Now, here is what you should have written:
"To the Chief of Police:
A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.
I have enclosed my application for a concealed carry permit along with the requisite fee and three personal references. I look forward to receiving my license shortly."