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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
3
HQL/Basic Pistol
Competition
View Class Information
Friday, April 3, 2026• 16:00:00
Flat Broke ShootersFlat Broke Shooters, Lexington Park, MD
View details
APR
3
Pasco Concealed Carry Class
Competition
CCW
Apr 3 1:00 PM 13:00 Pasco Concealed Carry Class Friday, April 3, 2026 1:00 PM 3:30 PM 13:00 15:30 Google Calendar ICS Concealed Carry Class April 3rd, 1pm Griggs Department Store: 801 Columbia St, Pasco. Signup Form include date & time. Payment is cash or check at the class, drivers license is all you need to bring. Signs out-front and in the lobby. Meeting room is just to the right, before entering store. In class we fingerprint / photo /copies all no-fee. Class covers Oregon / Washington / I
Friday, April 3, 2026
Firearm Training NorthwestFirearm Training Northwest, Sherwood, OR
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APR
3
Basic Handgun Class
Training
Day 1 in the classroom, Day 2 on the range. Register Now
Friday, April 3, 2026• 17:00:00
Accurate RangeAccurate Range, Clarkston, MI
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APR
3
Next class 2022
Competition
NRA Basic Personal Protection In The Home Course $125.00 This is an eight-hour course. Students should expect to shoot approximately 100 rounds of ammunition. Students will learn basic defensive shooting skills, strategies for home safety and responding to a violent confrontation, firearms and the law, how to choose a handgun for self-defense, and continued opportunities for skill development. Students will receive the NRA Guide to the Basics of Personal Protection In The Home handbook, NRA Gun Safety Rules brochure, the Winchester/NRA Marksmanship Qualification booklet, and course completion certificate.
Friday, April 3, 2026
M.O.CCW Firearms TrainingM.O.CCW Firearms Training, Hazelwood, IL
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APR
3
Date Night
Night Shoot
What better way to start off the weekend then with Friday Night Date Night. Whether before dinner or after, enjoy a little range time. From 5:30 to 7:30 two shoot for the price of one. Purchase a walk-in lane fee, and get one free. No registration necessary, just come on in.
Friday, April 3, 2026• 17:30:00
Centerfire Shooting SportsCenterfire Shooting Sports, Olathe, KS
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APR
3
Action Pistol - RO Practice
This practice is for Diablo Range Officers only. Do not show up if you are not a Diablo Range Officer.
Friday, April 3, 2026• 09:00:00
Action Pistol RangeAction Pistol Range, Concord, NV