Gun Ownership

I am posting in r/Boston because I know many of you don’t live in Boston proper. I am looking to get a firearms license and a handgun to keep in my home. Given the state of our country I believe this is important, even in our relatively liberal bastion.

I live in Watertown and I am interested in the experience of others getting a handgun around the city. My wife insists it is very difficult to get a license and gun because her dad had a difficult time apparently? I am not sure of the details around his situation tbh. I have no criminal record, a background check would come back completely clean. Will it be easy for me to get a license to possess (not interested in license to carry) and a handgun around here?

Thanks!