What is Cowboy Action Shooting?

Cowboy Action Shooting has many names. It’s known as Western Action Shooting, Single Action Shooting and Cowboy 3-Gun. Regardless of what it’s called, it is a fun, competitive shooting sport that’s suitable for the entire family.

This is a type of multi-gun match utilizing a combination of pistol(s), rifle, and/or shotgun in a variety of “old west themed” courses of fire for time and accuracy. Participants must dress in appropriate theme or era “costume” as well as use gear and accessories as mandated by the respective sanctioning group rules.

SASS rules: Conventions

Cowboy Action Shooting is seeing a resurgence at CCSSEF. You won’t see matches every month this year, but the foundation is attempting to make it a regular happening. Watch the foundation calendar for dates and times!

Stage Conventions or standard range behaviors are a list of practices every shooter is expected to know and follow on every stage. The Conventions should be followed in all SASS matches unless otherwise directed in stage descriptions.
1. All knockdown shotgun targets may be reengaged until down.
2. All knockdown targets (shotgun, rifle or revolver) must go down to count.
3. All staged guns shall have their barrels pointed safely down range. All long guns staged horizontally shall be staged lying flat where at least the rear of the trigger guard is on the staging area.
4. Staged shotguns will be open and empty.
5. Shooters may not start a stage with ammunition in hand.
6. Long guns will be discarded open and empty with their barrels pointed safely down range.
7. Revolvers are returned to leather after shooting string.
8. Revolvers are drawn and used in accordance with the shooter’s category.
9. Safe gun handling is the shooter’s responsibility. The 170 safety rule is in effect. The basketball traveling rule when there is a live round under the hammer is in effect.
10. If no starting position is given the shooter shall stand fully erect with revolvers holstered, hands at the side not touching any firearm.
11. Cowboy Port Arms is defined as standing fully erect with the butt of the long gun at or below the waist of the shooter, the muzzle at or above the shoulder, and the long gun held with both hands.
12. Interpersonal conflicts WILL NOT be tolerated.