shooting-sports/3-gun-competition
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.
how to start 3 gun
3 gun competition for beginners
3 gun equipment list
3 gun divisions explained
what is 3 gun
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01 // LEARN
#01
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
Outlaw 3-Gun (club matches)
3-Gun Nation
USPSA Multigun
UML (Unlimited Multigun League)
02 // START
#02
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
1Semi-automatic rifle (AR-15 platform common)
2Semi-automatic pistol (9mm or larger)
3Semi-automatic or pump shotgun
4Multiple magazines for each firearm
5Sturdy belt and holster setup
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
1Muzzle discipline is paramount - 180 rule applies
2Finger off trigger until sights on target
3Unload and show clear at stage end
4Follow Range Officer commands exactly
5Know your division rules before competing
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
Start with outlaw matches before major competitions
Master each firearm individually first
Practice transitions between guns
Invest in a quality belt setup before upgrading guns
Bring more ammo than you think you need
What Does 3-Gun Cost?
Realistic budget expectations
Getting Started
$2,000-3,500
Basic equipment to begin
Competitive Setup
$5,000-15,000+
Quality gear for serious shooters
Per event/match:$30-75 per match
Ammo per session:$80-150 (rifle + pistol + shotgun)
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
#03
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
#04
Upcoming Events
Find 3-gun events near you
View details
JUL
21
Executive Board
Social
Monthly Executive Board meeting Prospective members that are required to attend should arrive by 6:30pm.
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Richmond Boro Gun ClubRichmond Boro Gun Club, Town of Bethlehem, NY
View details
JUL
21
Sporting Clays
Competition
Sporting Clays
Sporting Clays at Kinnicum Fish and Game Club in Candia, NH. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Kinnicum Fish and Game ClubKinnicum Fish and Game Club, Candia, NH
View details
JUL
21
Annie Oakley Initial Safety Class
Competition
This class is required for first time Annie Oakley participants. You can bring your own eye and ear protection, or we can provide it to you for a small donation. The classroom session is from 6:30 p.m. to about 7:45 p.m. After class, we take you out on the range where we walk you through how to use one of our guns. Be sure you are wearing weather appropriate clothing, as well as clothing appropriate for the gun range. We recommend that you wear closed-toed shoes (flip flops are not recommend
Tuesday, July 21, 2026• 18:30:00
Clark County Shooting Complex Education Center – ClassroomClark County Shooting Complex Education Center – Classroom, Las Vegas, CA
View details
JUL
21
Wipe Your Eyes Trap
Competition
Trap
Wipe Your Eyes Trap at Winnipesaukee Sportsmen's Club in Moultonborough, NH. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Winnipesaukee Sportsmen's ClubWinnipesaukee Sportsmen's Club, Moultonborough, NH
View details
JUL
21
Trap League
Competition
Trap
Trap League at Luxemburg Sportsman's Club in Luxemburg, WI. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Luxemburg Sportsman's ClubLuxemburg Sportsman's Club, Luxemburg, WI
View details
JUL
21
Southern Elite Team Practice
Competition
An open practice session at Griffingun. This is dedicated time for shooters to work on fundamentals, sight in firearms, test loads, or prepare for upcoming competitions. Your firearm(s) and ammunition Targets (or purchase at the range) Eye and ear protection (required) Any accessories you want to test or zero Contact Griffingun for range hours, bay availability, and any guest policies.
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
GriffingunGriffingun, Griffin, GA
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline