No HQL required to purchase this rifle, HQL is only required for handguns in MD. You would need to use buds high capacity magazine removal service during checkout, as MD limits magazine capacity to 10 (this comes with a 30rd magazines)
And yes it needs to be shipped and transfered through a local ffl who will conduct your background check.

David, no Sir, only for handguns. It would also need to be transferred through a local FFL Dealer. Buds will need to remove the magazine since it comes with a 30rd mag. Cheers and stay safe!