So if I wanted a .40 PPS......

[MXD]

Can I buy one from a private sale in MA and just not from a dealer or can I just not have one?

 

[eisenhow]

Can I buy one from a private sale in MA and just not from a dealer or can I just not have one?

YES

There was/is one for sale in the classifieds. Not sure if it is still available or not.

 

[drgrant]

Can I buy one from a private sale in MA and just not from a dealer or can I just not have one?

You can buy it from anyone who can sell it to you, a dealer or an in-state resident FTF between two licensed persons. If a dealer sells you one, it's their problem. (unlikely to find one that would, but some dealers have "creative" interpretations of the regs. )

There is no barrier to "possession" via handgun compliance. The act of the dealer transfer is the "regulated" component here, not the firearm itself, or ownership of said firearm.

Review the handgun compliance faq here:

http://northeastshooters.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=37553

-Mike