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shooting-sports/cowboy-action-shooting
Cowboy Action Shooting
Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) is a shooting sport that combines Old West firearms with themed scenarios. Competitors use single-action revolvers, lever-action rifles, and side-by-side or pump shotguns in timed stages.
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01 // LEARN
#01
What is Cowboy Action Shooting?
Understanding this shooting discipline
Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) is a shooting sport that combines Old West firearms with themed scenarios. Competitors use single-action revolvers, lever-action rifles, and side-by-side or pump shotguns in timed stages. The sport is governed by SASS (Single Action Shooting Society).
A unique aspect of CAS is the required period costume - shooters adopt aliases and dress in Old West attire. The community emphasis on fun and camaraderie makes cowboy action one of the most welcoming shooting sports for newcomers.
Types & Variations
Traditional (standard SASS)
Gunfighter (two revolvers)
Wild Bunch (1911 pistols)
Mounted Shooting
02 // START
#02
Getting Started with Cowboy Action
Equipment, costs, and tips for beginners
Getting into cowboy action 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
1Two single-action revolvers (.357/.45 Colt)
2Lever-action rifle (.357/.45 Colt)
3Side-by-side or pump shotgun
4Leather holster rig and belt
5Period-appropriate costume
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
1All firearms must be pre-1899 design or replicas
2Period costume required (1800s Old West)
3No black or camouflage clothing
4Adopt a unique alias
5Spirit of the game - sportsmanship first
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
Borrow or rent equipment before buying
Join a club posse for mentorship
Start with basic costume - upgrade over time
Match your rifle and revolver calibers for simplicity
Attend a match as a spectator first
What Does Cowboy Action Cost?
Realistic budget expectations
Getting Started
$1,500-3,000
Basic equipment to begin
Competitive Setup
$4,000-8,000+
Quality gear for serious shooters
Per event/match:$15-30 per match
Ammo per session:$40-80 (200+ rounds typical)
Hidden costs to consider: Buy used guns - the cowboy community is generous with advice. Budget $200-500 for basic costume and leather.
Cowboy Action Caliber Selection
Compare your options
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| .38 Special / .357 Magnum Shoot .38 Special loads in .357 guns. Light recoil, affordable, works in rifle and pistol. | Most shooters - best balance of cost, recoil, and availability |
| .45 Colt Traditional caliber. More recoil, more expensive ammo. Authentic feel. | Traditionalists who prioritize authenticity over economy |
| .44-40 / .44 Magnum Classic calibers. .44-40 is period-correct. .44 Magnum allows lighter .44 Special loads. | Collectors seeking period authenticity or those with existing .44s |
03 // ASK
#03
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about cowboy action
New to cowboy action? 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 cowboy action shooting. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll help you out.
A basic firearms setup costs $1,500-3,000 for quality used guns. Add $200-500 for leather gear and costume. Many clubs have loaner guns and members willing to help new shooters get started.
Yes, period costume is required for all SASS matches. However, you can start simple with jeans, boots, a Western shirt, and a hat. More elaborate costumes develop over time as part of the fun.
.38 Special/.357 Magnum is the most popular choice - light recoil, affordable ammo, and matches rifle/pistol caliber. .45 Colt is traditional but more expensive. Most competitors shoot .38 Special loads.
Every SASS member adopts a unique alias (shooting name) that fits the Old West theme. Aliases are registered to prevent duplicates. Examples include historical figures, fictional characters, or creative Western names.
04 // FIND
#04
Upcoming Events
Find cowboy action events near you
View details
MAR
19
Homeschool Basic/Intermediate Archery
Competition
Homeschool Basic/Intermediate Archery at Easton Newberry Archery Center in Newberry, FL. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Easton Newberry Archery CenterEaston Newberry Archery Center, Newberry, FL
View details
MAR
19
Draw From The Holster
Competition
Maximum 10 participants in each class Call or visit one of our locations to register. This class is for individuals who want to draw from the holster at Two Gun Tactical. Range time is included with the course fee! Minors are allowed with a parent or guardian.
Thursday, March 19, 2026• 18:00:00
Two Gun Tactical, LLC FlowoodTwo Gun Tactical, LLC Flowood, Flowood, MS
View details
MAR
19
Bullseye League
Training
Outdoor
Bullseye (also called Conventional Pistol or Precision Pistol) is the traditional one-handed pistol competition. Shooters fire at the classic bullseye target at 25 and 50 yards in slow fire, timed fire, and rapid fire stages. | Detail | Info | |--------|------| | Distances | 25 and 50 yards | | Shooting hand | One-handed (strong hand only) | | Calibers | .22 LR, centerfire (.32-.45), .45 ACP | | Course of fire | 2700 (full) or 1800 (short) aggregate | .22 LR pistol and/or centerfire pistol (.45 ACP for full 2700) Ammunition (90 rounds per gun for full course) Shooting box or bench for equipment Spotting scope Eye and ear protection (required) Contact Pinellas Outdoor Shooting Range for match format (2700 vs. 1800), entry fees, and start time.
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Pinellas Outdoor Shooting RangePinellas Outdoor Shooting Range, Clearwater, FL
View details
MAR
19
Bring a guest for free, free extra shooter with range time purchase
Competition
Outdoor
19 Bring a guest for free, free extra shooter with range time purchase Bring a guest for free, free extra shooter with range time purchase March 19, 2026 See more details •
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Outdoorsman Sport Shop, TheOutdoorsman Sport Shop, The, Winthrop Harbor, IL
View details
MAR
19
Living Strong
Training
Whether you’re a graduate of Fit & Strong! or new to group fitness and would like a challenge, Living Strong is a great way to stay active and build strength in a supportive environment. This class includes strength training, aerobic exercise, balance, flexibility and more, along with goal setting to help you stay motivated and consistent. Come improve your endurance, boost your energy, and keep Living Strong!
Thursday, March 19, 2026• 09:30:00
Prince Georges County Trap and Skeet CenterPrince Georges County Trap and Skeet Center, Glenndale, MD
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MAR
19
SKILLS BUILDER
Competition
CCW
So, you have your concealed carry license but your confidence in your shooting skills is a bit low? Well, we have a series of on-the-range workshops just for YOU! The series consists of 5 levels. Each one requires more skill. Start out shooting paper plates at 15 feet distance, at your own pace. Next, learn to shoot with both the left- and right- trigger finger (but 2-handed). As you proceed through the remaining levels you will learn to shoot faster, and shoot one-handed (left and right). W
Thursday, March 19, 2026• 11:00:00
Albuquerque Shooting Range ParkAlbuquerque Shooting Range Park, Albuquerque, NM
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline
Shooting Locations
View allShops & Clubs
View allCopperhead Creek Shooting Club
Marble Falls
Shooting Range
Claythorne Lodge
Columbus
Shooting Range
United Defense Tactical
Costa Mesa·4.2 stars
Shooting Range
The Range at Ballantyne
Indian Land·4.6 stars
Shooting Range
Boise Gun Club
Kuna·4.7 stars
Shooting Range
Conservation Club of Kenosha County-Bristol Shooting Ranges
Bristol·3.9 stars
Club