Cowboy Action Shooting is a unique and exciting sport that allows participants to step back in time and experience the thrill of the Old West. It combines elements of shooting, historical reenactment, and costume play to create an immersive and entertaining experience. In this article, we will explore the history of Cowboy Action Shooting, the essential gear needed to participate, the firearms used in the sport, authentic cowboy attire, safety precautions, rules and regulations, shooting techniques, competition formats and scoring systems, and tips for getting started.
The sport of Cowboy Action Shooting originated in Southern California in the early 1980s. It was created by a group of shooting enthusiasts who wanted to combine their love for firearms with their passion for the Old West. They wanted to recreate the excitement and camaraderie of the cowboys and outlaws of yesteryear while also promoting safe shooting practices.
The History of the Old West and its Influence on the Sport
The Old West era, which spanned from the early 1800s to the early 1900s, was a time of adventure, lawlessness, and rugged individualism. It was a period marked by cowboys, outlaws, lawmen, and pioneers who settled the untamed frontier. The Old West has captivated the imaginations of people around the world with its tales of gunfights, saloons, stagecoaches, and gold rushes.
The influence of the Old West on Cowboy Action Shooting is evident in every aspect of the sport. From the costumes worn by participants to the firearms used in competition, everything is designed to recreate the look and feel of the Wild West. Participants take on personas of famous historical figures or create their own characters to fully immerse themselves in the experience.
Essential Gear for Cowboy Action Shooting
To participate in Cowboy Action Shooting, there are several essential pieces of gear that you will need. These include firearms, ammunition, holsters, belts, clothing, eye and ear protection, and targets.
Firearms are a crucial component of Cowboy Action Shooting. Participants typically use replicas of firearms that were commonly used in the Old West, such as single-action revolvers, lever-action rifles, and double-barreled shotguns. These firearms must meet specific criteria to ensure safety and authenticity.
Holsters and belts are used to carry the firearms during competition. They are typically made of leather and designed to be worn on the waist or thigh. The holsters must securely hold the firearms while allowing for quick and easy access during shooting stages.
Authentic cowboy attire is an important part of Cowboy Action Shooting. Participants are required to dress in period-appropriate clothing, which typically includes cowboy hats, long-sleeved shirts, vests, pants or skirts, boots, and spurs. The clothing should be made of natural materials like cotton or wool to maintain authenticity.
Eye and ear protection are essential for safety during shooting. Participants must wear safety glasses or goggles to protect their eyes from debris or fragments. Ear protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, should be worn to protect against the loud noise of gunfire.
Targets used in Cowboy Action Shooting are typically steel plates or cardboard targets. These targets are set up in various configurations to simulate different shooting scenarios. Participants must engage these targets with their firearms while following specific rules and guidelines.
Choosing the Right Firearms for the Old West
When it comes to choosing firearms for Cowboy Action Shooting, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, the firearms must be replicas of those used in the Old West era. This means they should closely resemble the original firearms in terms of design and functionality.
The most commonly used firearms in Cowboy Action Shooting are single-action revolvers, lever-action rifles, and double-barreled shotguns. Single-action revolvers, such as the Colt Single Action Army or the Ruger Vaquero, are the primary sidearms used in competition. These revolvers require the shooter to manually cock the hammer before each shot, which adds to the challenge and authenticity of the sport.
Lever-action rifles, such as the Winchester Model 1873 or the Marlin 1894, are popular choices for the long gun category. These rifles have a tubular magazine that holds multiple rounds and are known for their reliability and quick follow-up shots.
Double-barreled shotguns, such as the Stoeger Coach Gun or the Winchester Model 1897, are used for shotgun stages in Cowboy Action Shooting. These shotguns have two barrels and can be either side-by-side or over-and-under configurations.
When choosing firearms for Cowboy Action Shooting, it is important to consider factors such as reliability, ease of use, and availability of ammunition. It is also recommended to try out different firearms at shooting ranges or competitions to find the ones that best suit your shooting style and preferences.
Dressing the Part: Authentic Cowboy Attire
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Cowboy Action Shooting is dressing up in authentic cowboy attire. Participants are required to wear period-appropriate clothing that reflects the fashion of the Old West era. This not only adds to the overall experience but also helps create a sense of camaraderie among participants.
Authentic cowboy attire typically includes a cowboy hat, long-sleeved shirt, vest, pants or skirt, boots, and spurs. The cowboy hat is an iconic symbol of the Old West and comes in various styles such as the Stetson or the sombrero. It not only provides protection from the sun but also completes the cowboy look.
Long-sleeved shirts are a practical choice for Cowboy Action Shooting as they provide protection from hot brass casings and help prevent sunburn. These shirts can be plain or patterned and are typically made of cotton or linen for comfort and breathability.
Vests are another essential piece of cowboy attire. They not only add to the authenticity of the outfit but also provide extra storage for ammunition or other small items. Vests can be made of leather or fabric and come in various styles such as the traditional waistcoat or the duster vest.
Pants or skirts should be made of durable materials like denim or canvas to withstand the rigors of shooting. They should be comfortable and allow for ease of movement. Boots are an important part of the cowboy attire, providing support and protection for the feet. They should be made of leather and have a low heel for stability.
Spurs, although not required, can be added to complete the cowboy look. They are worn on the heels of boots and were traditionally used by cowboys to communicate with their horses. Spurs come in various styles and designs, allowing participants to personalize their outfits.
When choosing and wearing cowboy attire, it is important to consider comfort, functionality, and safety. Clothing should fit well and allow for ease of movement during shooting stages. It is also recommended to wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the sun’s rays.
Safety Precautions for Cowboy Action Shooting
Safety is of utmost importance in Cowboy Action Shooting. Participants must adhere to strict safety rules and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. These rules are designed to prevent accidents and injuries and should be followed at all times.
Some of the key safety precautions in Cowboy Action Shooting include:
1. Always keep firearms pointed in a safe direction: Participants must keep their firearms pointed downrange at all times, away from themselves and others. This helps prevent accidental discharges and ensures that bullets are directed towards the targets.
2. Keep fingers off the trigger until ready to shoot: Participants must keep their fingers off the trigger until they are ready to engage the targets. This helps prevent accidental discharges and ensures that shots are only fired when intended.
3. Treat all firearms as if they are loaded: Participants must always assume that firearms are loaded, even if they have been checked and cleared. This helps maintain a high level of awareness and prevents complacency.
4. Know and understand the range commands: Participants must familiarize themselves with the range commands used in Cowboy Action Shooting and follow them at all times. These commands are used to ensure safe shooting practices and should be obeyed without question.
5. Wear eye and ear protection: Participants must wear safety glasses or goggles to protect their eyes from debris or fragments. Ear protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, should be worn to protect against the loud noise of gunfire.
6. Follow the 180-degree rule: Participants must be aware of the 180-degree rule, which states that firearms should never be pointed behind the shooter or beyond a 180-degree arc in front of the shooter. This helps prevent accidental discharges towards other participants or spectators.
7. Be aware of your surroundings: Participants must be aware of their surroundings at all times and avoid pointing firearms at anything other than the designated targets. This helps prevent accidental discharges and ensures the safety of everyone on the range.
By following these safety precautions, participants can enjoy the thrill of Cowboy Action Shooting while minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries.
Rules and Regulations of the Sport
Cowboy Action Shooting has a set of rules and regulations that govern the sport and ensure fair competition. These rules are designed to maintain safety, authenticity, and consistency across all competitions. It is important for participants to familiarize themselves with these rules before competing.
Some of the key rules and regulations in Cowboy Action Shooting include:
1. Firearms requirements: Participants must use replicas of firearms that were commonly used in the Old West era. These firearms must meet specific criteria in terms of design, functionality, and safety. Modifications to the firearms are allowed within certain limits.
2. Ammunition requirements: Participants must use lead or lead-alloy bullets in their firearms. Jacketed or plated bullets are not allowed. The ammunition must also meet specific power factor requirements to ensure consistency and safety.
3. Shooting stages: Competitions consist of multiple shooting stages, each with its own set of targets and scenarios. Participants must engage the targets in the correct order and follow specific rules and guidelines for each stage.
4. Scoring system: Cowboy Action Shooting uses a time-based scoring system. Participants are timed as they engage the targets, and penalties are assessed for missed targets, procedural errors, or safety violations. The participant with the lowest overall time, including penalties, is declared the winner.
5. Costume requirements: Participants must dress in period-appropriate clothing that reflects the fashion of the Old West era. The clothing should be authentic and meet specific criteria in terms of style, materials, and accessories.
6. Range commands: Participants must follow the range commands given by the Range Officer or Match Director. These commands are used to ensure safe shooting practices and maintain consistency across all competitions.
7. Code of conduct: Participants are expected to conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner and show respect for fellow competitors, Range Officers, and spectators. Unsportsmanlike behavior or violations of the code of conduct can result in disqualification or other penalties.
It is important for participants to read and understand the complete set of rules and regulations before competing in Cowboy Action Shooting. This ensures a fair and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Techniques for Shooting Like a Cowboy
Shooting like a cowboy requires a combination of accuracy, speed, and smoothness. Participants must be able to engage multiple targets quickly and accurately while maintaining control of their firearms. There are several shooting techniques that can help improve performance in Cowboy Action Shooting.
One of the key techniques used in Cowboy Action Shooting is the “double tap.” This involves firing two shots in rapid succession at a single target. The first shot is aimed for accuracy, while the second shot is aimed for speed. By practicing this technique, participants can improve their overall shooting speed without sacrificing accuracy.
Another important technique is the “transition.” This involves smoothly moving from one target to another without wasting unnecessary time or movement. Participants must be able to acquire the next target quickly and smoothly while maintaining control of their firearms. This can be achieved through proper footwork, body positioning, and hand-eye coordination.
The “reload” is another crucial technique in Cowboy Action Shooting. Participants must be able to reload their firearms quickly and efficiently during shooting stages. This can be done through various methods such as the “speed reload” or the “slide lock reload.” By practicing these techniques, participants can minimize the time spent reloading and maximize their shooting performance.
It is also important to practice proper trigger control and sight alignment. Participants must be able to squeeze the trigger smoothly and consistently without disturbing their sight picture. By mastering these fundamental shooting skills, participants can improve their accuracy and consistency in Cowboy Action Shooting.
Competition Formats and Scoring Systems
Cowboy Action Shooting competitions come in various formats, each with its own set of rules and scoring systems. The most common competition formats include:
1. Single-Action Shooting Society (SASS): SASS is the largest organization dedicated to Cowboy Action Shooting. It hosts regional, national, and international competitions that follow a set of standardized rules and guidelines. SASS competitions consist of multiple shooting stages that test participants’ shooting skills, speed, and accuracy.
2. Wild Bunch: Wild Bunch is a variation of Cowboy Action Shooting that focuses on the firearms and gear used during the early 1900s. It incorporates additional shooting stages that simulate scenarios from the movie “The Wild Bunch.” Participants must use specific firearms and gear that meet the requirements of the Wild Bunch category.
3. Side Matches: Side matches are additional shooting stages that are often held alongside main competitions. These stages allow participants to practice specific shooting skills or compete in different categories. Side matches can include speed shooting, long-range shooting, shotgun stages, or other specialized shooting scenarios.
The scoring system in Cowboy Action Shooting is time-based. Participants are timed as they engage the targets, and penalties are assessed for missed targets, procedural errors, or safety violations. The participant with the lowest overall time, including penalties, is declared the winner.
Penalties can be assessed for various reasons, such as missing a target, engaging targets out of order, failing to follow specific rules or guidelines, or committing safety violations. These penalties are added to the participant’s overall time and can significantly affect their final score.
It is important for participants to understand the scoring system and penalties before competing in Cowboy Action Shooting. This allows them to strategize their shooting stages and make informed decisions during competition.
Tips for Getting Started in Cowboy Action Shooting
If you’re interested in getting started in Cowboy Action Shooting, here are some tips to help you on your journey:
1. Research and learn: Take the time to research and learn about the sport of Cowboy Action Shooting. Read books, watch videos, and talk to experienced shooters to gain a better understanding of the history, rules, gear, and techniques involved.
2. Find a local club: Look for a local Cowboy Action Shooting club or organization in your area. These clubs often hold regular events and competitions where you can participate in Cowboy Action Shooting. Joining a club not only provides you with a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for the sport, but it also gives you access to experienced shooters who can offer guidance and tips to improve your skills. Additionally, being part of a club allows you to stay updated on upcoming events, training sessions, and other opportunities to further immerse yourself in the world of Cowboy Action Shooting.
