Not much new to add (largely a recap with a few additions):
MD is a strange state. Lots of conservative rural areas, but most of the political power is in liberal, urban Baltimore, liberal Howard County (one of the richest counties in America) and increasingly urban, insanely liberal, rich Montgomery County. We have some laws that make MD seem decent on guns: Class III friendly, no permits, long guns (with the exception of "assault rifles") are treated the same here as in the free states. We have other laws that are quite draconian (the transport law for instance). And others that are bad, but not much worse than even "pro-gun" VA (one a month law).
What to expect from our gun laws. One handgun a month unless you register as a collector. You will be able to bring most of what you have (maybe all of it) into the state, no registration. Any handguns or "assault rifles" you buy while here will be registered and you'll have a 7 day waiting period. You will need to watch a video to get a card that says you can buy handguns. Practically speaking no CCW, unless you own a business that deals with a lot of cash or have political connections. You can only transport your guns, cased and unloaded (a loaded mag or speedloader counts as a loaded gun) in your trunk, to and from the range (while there is controversy about whether you are allowed to stop for gas or a bathroom stop, you certainly can't stop to do shopping or leave your guns in the trunk overnight, or drive to your friend's house). You can't buy mags that hold more than 20 rounds, but you can bring them with you. The approved list and fired shell casing laws do limit the handguns you can buy somewhat, but not too badly. Long guns (other than "assault weapons") are cash and carry after the federal background check. We are actually fairly Class III friendly. Private sales of handguns are legal, but still subject to a 7 day waiting period and you both have to appear (twice) at a state police barracks with the gun for the background check and waiting period. Private sales of long guns are just like anywhere else in the free world.
Here are some things to consider:
Pro:
1) Proximity to DC means plenty of cultural activities.
2) Central MD is an affluent area which means lots of parks, lots of festivals of various types, cultural events and activities, museums, libraries, relatively good public schools, some of the best private schools in the nation, etc.
3) Many parts of the area are good places to raise kids
4) Central MD puts you about 2-3 hours from the mountains to the west and 2-3 hours from the ocean to the east. Take your pick
5) With the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and many streams and rivers we have some of the best fishing in the world.
6) No yearly "personal property tax" on your car like in VA
7) Good, clean and safe, public transportation in the DC area (through the adjoining counties) so you may be able to save some gas money and actually take the train to work
8) Diversity, there is truly something for everyone here
9) We have a very good group of shooters in the area
Cons:
1) Taxes, among the worst in the country
2) It is a VERY liberal area (not just on guns)
3) Some of the worst drivers in the country are in the Baltimore and DC areas
4) The DC area is regularly in the top 5 (and often higher) for worst traffic and longest commute times in the country
5) Real estate in the DC area (PG or Montgomery County) is high, but no more than other major metro areas (NYC, LA, Chicago, San Fran). If you don't mind a slightly longer commute you'll save a lot by moving to Columbia MD (Howard County) or Anne Arundel County.
6) While our gun laws could be worse, rest assured that the huge Democratic majority in the legislature and our Democratic governor are working very hard every year to see to it that they do get much worse (while gun owners have had some victories of late, every year a new Assault Weapons Ban, ammo restrictions, and other such bills must be fought tooth and nail).
