Smith & Wesson Leaving Massachusetts For Gun-Friendlier State

Smith & Wesson, the gun manufacturer based in Springfield for over a century and a half, is moving its headquarters out of Massachusetts due to proposed legislation the company said will hurt business.

"This has been an extremely difficult and emotional decision for us, but after an exhaustive and thorough analysis, for the continued health and strength of our iconic company, we feel that we have been left with no other alternative," CEO Mark Smith said.

Smith cited proposed legislation that would restrict the manufacturing of certain firearms in Massachusetts.

"These bills would prevent Smith & Wesson from manufacturing firearms that are legal in almost every state in America and that are safely used by tens of millions of law-abiding citizens every day exercising their Constitutional 2nd Amendment rights, protecting themselves and their families, and enjoying the shooting sports," Smith said, noting such firearms made up over 60 percent of the company's revenue.

Smith listed a number of reasons for the move, including Tennessee's "support fo the 2nd Amendment" and a "business-friendly environment."

Smith & Wesson is moving to Tennessee, costing the Springfield area some 550 jobs, the Wall Street Journal reported. Smith & Wesson will keep some manufacturing and about 1,000 jobs in Massachusetts.