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
MAY
1
CVFD Sporting Clay Shoot
Competition
For more information please contact Kendal Baerg at 307-212-2992
Friday, May 1, 2026
Cody Shooting ComplexCody Shooting Complex, Cody, WY
View details
MAY
1
=== >> NRA CLASS SCHEDULES ARE POSTED THROUGH < ===
Competition
Instructor
LEAVE US A MESSAGE ALL NEW NRA DATES AND TIMES ==> NRA Range Safety Officer Certification, NRA Basic Pistol and RIFLE Certifications <== ==>> MASSACHUSETTS LICENSE TO CARRY LTC AND FID CARD (TBA) <==
Friday, May 1, 2026
Commonwealth Firearms & Training CenterCommonwealth Firearms & Training Center, Swansea, MA
View details
MAY
1
2026 Legion Team Sniper Challenge
Competition
PRS
Sniper Match Kentucky May 1, 2026 2026 Legion Team Sniper Challenge A two-day, two-man Special Forces–style stress-shoot hosted by Chaos Concepts, combining precision rifle, carbine, pistol, and problem-solving under time-plus scoring. Designed for experienced field shooters, not square-range PRS builds. view event Open 36.9661453 -87.28285939999999
Friday, May 1, 2026
Find Long-Range Shooting Ranges, Courses and Gear Across the USFind Long-Range Shooting Ranges, Courses and Gear Across the US, Unknown, KY
View details
MAY
1
Friday Night Trap Shooting
Competition
Trap
Night Shoot
Newark Sportsmen’s club has two trap fields and boasts one of the only wobble trap field in the area. Whether it is for shooting practice or games, we encourage shooters of all skill levels to come out. Trap events are open to the public.
Friday, May 1, 2026
Newark Sportsmens ClubNewark Sportsmens Club, Newark, IL
View details
MAY
1
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, May 1, 2026• 09:00:00
Action Pistol RangeAction Pistol Range, Concord, NV
View details
MAY
1
Total Archery Challenge - Belvidere, TN
Competition
May 1 2026 Total Archery Challenge - Belvidere, TN Total Archery Challenge powered by PSE. Join us for the Greatest Archery Event Experience PERIOD!! All skill levels welcome, from beginner to expert. Incredible terrain and shots that give you... Belvidere, TN May 1–3, 2026
Friday, May 1, 2026
PsearcheryPsearchery, Tucson, HI
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline