3-Gun Competition
3-Gun is a dynamic shooting sport where competitors use three firearms: a rifle, pistol, and shotgun. Stages are designed to test speed and accuracy across varying distances and target types.
01 // LEARN
What is 3-Gun Competition?
Understanding this shooting discipline
3-Gun is a dynamic shooting sport where competitors use three firearms: a rifle, pistol, and shotgun. Stages are designed to test speed and accuracy across varying distances and target types. Shooters engage steel, paper, and clay targets while navigating through courses of fire.
The sport has grown rapidly with organizations like 3-Gun Nation and USPSA Multigun hosting national championships. Local "outlaw" matches at clubs provide accessible entry points for new competitors.
Types & Variations
02 // START
Getting Started with 3-Gun
Equipment, costs, and tips for beginners
Getting into 3-gun doesn't require starting with top-tier gear. Focus on safety fundamentals, basic equipment, and finding welcoming places to learn. The community is generally helpful to newcomers who show up prepared with the right attitude.
Essential Equipment
What you need to get started
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
What Does 3-Gun Cost?
Realistic budget expectations
$2,000-3,500
Basic equipment to begin
$5,000-15,000+
Quality gear for serious shooters
Hidden costs to consider: 3-gun has the highest startup cost of action sports. Start with club matches using existing firearms before investing in race gear.
3-Gun Division Comparison
Compare your options
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Tactical/Limited Iron sights or 1x optics. Standard capacity magazines. Most accessible. | Beginners and those using existing firearms |
| Open Division Any optics, extended magazines, compensators allowed. Highest equipment cost. | Experienced competitors seeking maximum performance |
| Heavy Metal .308 rifle, .45 ACP pistol, 12ga shotgun. Iron sights required. | Shooters who want a challenge with full-power calibers |
03 // ASK
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about 3-gun
New to 3-gun? These are the most common questions from shooters exploring this discipline. The shooting community is generally welcoming and happy to help newcomers.
Find answers to common questions about 3-gun competition. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll help you out.
Entry-level 3-gun can start around $2,000-3,000 for basic firearms. Most club matches allow you to compete with standard equipment. As you advance, competitors often invest $5,000+ in race guns and gear.
Yes, many outlaw matches welcome pump shotguns and basic equipment. You may be at a competitive disadvantage against semi-autos, but the experience is valuable for learning the sport.
Common divisions include Tactical/Limited (iron sights, standard capacity), Open (optics, extended magazines), and Heavy Metal (308/45ACP/12ga). Club matches often have local division variations.
Typical matches require 100-150 rifle rounds, 100-150 pistol rounds, and 25-50 shotgun shells. Always bring 20% extra and check match announcements for specific round counts.
04 // FIND
Upcoming Events
Find 3-gun events near you
Club practice - 600 & 1,000
Club practice - 600 & 1,000 at Alliance Rifle Club in Malvern, OH. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Open Trap Shooting, Milton Rifle & P{istol closed
Open Trap Shooting, Milton Rifle & P{istol closed at Rock County Rifle and Pistol Club, Inc. in Janesville, WI. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
MGAC Ladies Day- Ladies Shoot for Free!
Ladies shoot for free all day (main line and 600yd only) on the first and last Thursday of each month!
22 Rimfire Challenge Wed at 4:30 PM - Last shoot of the Season!
https://www.williamssportsmansclub.com [email protected] Don’t miss out! Bring your favorite .22 rimfire rifle whether it is a bolt gun, lever action, pump, single shot or semi-auto. The targets will be “Pumpkins!” (Actually orange clay pigeons). Distance will be about 75 yards (closer for you iron sight shooters). Come on out about 4:00 if you want to help set up. It is getting dark quicker so we will be done by about 6:00. See you there! Questions? Call Martin at (928) 853-2298 or email [email protected] Youth Rifle Practice / Skill Building Shoot
Youth Air Rifle
Call club after 4pm at <span>(330) 544-3993 </span><span>to verify we are open.</span>
CCW Renewal and Initial Class
CCW Renewal and Initial Class at Madison Society Foundation in Oakdale, CA. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
05 // LOCATE
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline