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
APR
26
Centerfire Benchrest Match
Competition
Benchrest
Location: 100-500 meter range Date Start Time End Time April 26, 2026 0730 1200 May 24, 2026 0730 1200 June 28, 2026 0730 1200 July 26, 2026 0730 1200 August 23, 2026 0730 1200 September 27, 2026 0730 1200 Contact Link
Sunday, April 26, 2026• 09:00:00
BRC 100/500 Meter RangeBRC 100/500 Meter Range, Beloit, IL
View details
APR
26
BLACK BADGE COURSE -27
Competition
protecting others from falling victim. We are taking legal and technical action against this fraudulent website and appreciate your vigilance. If you have been affected or suspect fraudulent activity, please contact us immediately. Thank you for your continued trust in The Gun Dealer. Stay Safe, The Gun Dealer. Please be advised that there will be an IPSC Black Badge Course held at our outdoor range on Saturday and Sunday April 26-27 with one evening of classroom training (date and time to be determined). Interested participants can contact Jody Waring and he will forward you course materials and registration information. Cost of the course is $150 which includes a one year membership
Sunday, April 26, 2026
Fundy Shooting SportsFundy Shooting Sports, Saint John, WA
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APR
26
MD CCW Renewal
Competition
CCW
Instructor
Maryland CCW Renewal Conducted by a Multi-discipline Certified Law Enforcement Instructor In this class, you will be certified to renew your Maryland Wear and Carry permit. Course Duration: 8 hours Course Cost: $150 *No refunds you can always reschedule a class time for up to one year. Course Goal: The goal of this course is for you the citizen to gain the credit needed to renew your Concealed Carry permit in the State of Maryland. Course Prerequisites: Current Maryland Conceal and Carry Permit
Sunday, April 26, 2026• 08:15:00
Atlantic Tactical Firearms TrainersAtlantic Tactical Firearms Trainers, Unknown, DE
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APR
26
Cast Bullet Match
Competition
Benchrest
CAST BULLET DIVISION ARIZONA STATE RIFLE AND PISTOL ASSOCIATION CAST BULLET MATCH 2026 Range: Benchrest LOCATION: Ben Avery (Black Canyon) Shooting Range – 20 miles north of Phoenix, Arizona, west of I-17, exit 223 (Carefree exit). The Cast Bullet Division of the ASRPA conducts rifle matches shooting cast lead bullets. The Division has three sections: Cast Bullet Benchrest, Schuetzen and 22BPCR. Each section conducts its own matches. All matches are shot at the Ben Avery Range. Practice Da
Sunday, April 26, 2026• 08:00:00
Ben Avery Shooting FacilityBen Avery Shooting Facility, PHOENIX, AZ
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APR
26
Delaware CCDW
Competition
CCW
Instructor
Delaware CCDW Delaware Concealed Carry of a Deadly Weapon Permit Conducted by a Multi-discipline Certified Law Enforcement Instructor *Must be a resident of Delaware to qualify for the Delaware CCDw. Course Duration: 8 hours Course Cost: $150 Course Goal: The goal of this course is for you the citizen to gain the credit needed to apply for a concealed carry permit from Delaware this course is also designed for those who wish to complete the first 8 hours of training towards your Maryland Wear an
Sunday, April 26, 2026• 08:15:00
Atlantic Tactical Firearms TrainersAtlantic Tactical Firearms Trainers, Unknown, DE
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APR
26
Practical Rifle
Competition
Practical Rifle match at Oconomowoc Sportsmans Club tests your ability to shoot accurately from various positions and distances—the kind of fundamentals that matter in real shooting. April 26th at the club gives you a chance to benchmark where you stand against other shooters and push your skills in a structured format. Head to oscinc.org for specifics on stage design, distances, and scoring rules before you show up.
Sunday, April 26, 2026
Oconomowoc Sportsmans ClubOconomowoc Sportsmans Club, Oconomowoc, WI