AR-15: The Reason Why Smith & Wesson Left Massachusetts

Last month, Smith & Wesson announced that it will move its headquarters to Maryville, Tenn., which is about 25 miles south of Knoxville. Some 750 employees will be relocated, but not all from Springfield.

The move to the Volunteer State occurred as there is legislation pending in Beacon Hill that could bar the manufacturer from making certain types of firearms – notably AR-15 style modern sporting rifles – in the Bay State. The company has touted Tennessee’s strong support for the Second Amendment as well as a lower cost of living as crucial to the decision.

What Mass Will Lose?

Tenn.’s gain will certainly be Mass.’s loss, and that will certainly include some jobs. According to BusinessWest.com, Western Mass. will lose roughly 550 jobs, but what impact that will have is unclear. The news outlet noted that “every manufacturer has a ‘help wanted’ sign on the door,” so those who aren’t moving to Tenn. could certainly have a chance at landing a new job.