The phrase used in the MA laws is "use or carrying of such firearm as the licensing authority deems proper." The licensing authorities have deemed it improper to show any sign of carrying a firearm unless you also have a badge. Yes, if you are noticed to have a firearm, you will loose your LTC because your "license may be revoked or suspended by the licensing authority if it appears that the holder is no longer a suitable person to possess such license."
But, more importantly, you could be charged with brandishing a firearm. It was carefully explained to me by my local licensing authority that concealed is the only option and that any hint of a firearm detected by the Cumberland Farms clerk will result in my being spread-eagled in the parking lot. (e.g.
Springfield officer did not violate civil rights, court says) Now, this may not be the case in the Berkshires, from the patio of our lazy governor's mansion to the hills overlooking West Springfield, but they don't take kindly to beholding any bluing, leather, nor bulge anywhere in these parts. Boston is right out, for sure.
There is no MA law on brandishing, per se, but the towns usually have brandishing or assault definitions that hinge on someone feeling threatened. In the Commonwealth v. Coutoure, the courts decided that having a firearm peek out is not enough to consider it brandishing -- someone must feel threatened or have reason to think that there is a threat. Now, the way this plays our is that the police put the cuffs on and write on the report that the person who called them felt threatened. Otherwise, why did they call? "So, we got you on brandishing, assault, assault with a firearm, your LTC is revoked, and we confiscated your gun." (... and just hope nobody was over 60 ...) After you get a lawyer and all of that, the assault charges go away, along with your LTC and every gun you own. That is why I said "prohibited".
Is it any wonder why GOAL's "The Art of Concealed Carry" is one of its more popular classes?
If you have a Class A LTC, you may carry concealed. If you have a Class A or B, you may transport an unloaded firearm in a hard-sided case in the trunk. In no case will anyone suggest that you can carry openly. (
See this FAQ from a local attorney) Don't believe every colorful map you find on the web.