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.
01 // LEARN
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
02 // START
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
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
What Does Cowboy Action Cost?
Realistic budget expectations
$1,500-3,000
Basic equipment to begin
$4,000-8,000+
Quality gear for serious shooters
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
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
Upcoming Events
Find cowboy action events near you
NRA Frist Steps Basic Pistol
NRA Frist Steps Basic Pistol at Izaak Walton League-Rockville Chapter in Germantown, MD. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
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Carbine/PCC Self-Defense 1st Workshop
Step into the realm of empowerment with our Carbine/PCC Self Defense Workshop—a dynamic 4-hour program meticulously designed to arm you with vital skills for effective self-defense. <br><br><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://tracearmorygroup.com/products/self-defense-carbine&sa=D&source=calendar&usd=2&usg=AOvVaw2yPS1TpsNeXD0fEfXVse4" target="blank">Carbine/PCC Self-Defense 1st Workshop – Trace Armory Group</a>
Fall Foliage shoot - Scores and winners Austin and Ryan
May 28th AIM shoot - Scores Winter League 2022 Scores: Winners
NVFAC Member Shoot
The second Friday of every month is free range time for NVFAC members! If you aren’t a member, you can join by going to the NVFAC website. This is not an Annie Oakley program, so the Annie Oakley firearms are not available for use during this time. You will need to bring your own firearms, ammunition, targets, eye and ear protection.
Alabama Airgun and Smallbore Cup
The Alabama Airgun and Smallbore Cup will begin on October 9th and run through October 11th. During this time, Range 1 and the Unknown Distance Range will be closed.