I have friends in MA. While it is “may issue” by law, outside the major cities it is “shall issue” by practice. However, it is up to the local Issuing Authority, I.e. Chief of Police, etc. to decide if you get a permit that let’s you carry and home and range only, or anywhere allowed by law. Some towns will on,y issue the limited permit.
That ‘s way too much discretion. While I personally believe that unrestricted carry without a tax is the only Proper Standard, I think permits (freely issued) are tolerable. For now. MA needs to get with the program.