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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
MAR
18
22 Rifle Instruction League (IR)
Competition
POC: Gary Thorson - [email protected]
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Capitol City Rifle & Pistol ClubCapitol City Rifle & Pistol Club, Lacey, WA
View details
MAR
18
TRAIN - Rangers Club Training - OMRC
Competition
TRAIN - Rangers Club Training - OMRC at Ole Mill Range Complex in Expressway Griffin, GA. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Ole Mill Range ComplexOle Mill Range Complex, Expressway Griffin, GA
View details
MAR
18
Sports Performance Training
Competition
@ Our Sports Performance Training Program uses high-speed treadmill, turf, and track drills to prepare you for your best season. Focus on speed, agility, running form, strength, and core training. Includes plyometrics and skill assessments for progress.
Wednesday, March 18, 2026• 18:30:00
Mayerson JCC CampusMayerson JCC Campus, Cincinnati, KY
View details
MAR
18
Rifle & Pistol range hours are 10am to 6pm
Training
A competitive pistol match featuring scored courses of fire. Depending on the format, this may include bullseye (precision), action pistol, or timed/rapid fire stages. Handgun (caliber and type per match rules) Ammunition (typically 50-150 rounds depending on format) Magazine pouches and holster (if action format) Eye and ear protection (required) Arrive early for sign-in and safety briefing If this is your first match, let the match director know -- most clubs pair new shooters with experienced mentors Focus on safety first, speed comes with experience Contact Renton Fish & Game Club for match format, round count, divisions, and entry fees.
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Renton Fish & Game ClubRenton Fish & Game Club, Renton, WA
View details
MAR
18
Big Bore Shoot 2016
Competition
Trap
The Lowell Sportsmen's Club, Inc. 50 Swain Road, North Chelmsford, MA 01863 Mailing address: PO Box 912, N. Chelmsford, MA 01863 978-251-3637 • [email protected] Facebook Search for: Home About About the Club Contacts & Directions Range Rules & By-Laws Newsletters History of the Club Activities Calendar Special Events Training Open to the Public Events Trap & Skeet Archery Pistol, Rifle, & Blackpowder Fishing Meetings Leagues Membership Membership Info Join/Renew Online Volunteer! Calendar Club
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Lowell Sportsmen's Club, Inc.Lowell Sportsmen's Club, Inc., North Chelmsford, MA
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MAR
18
CPL and Renewal Class
Competition
Instructor
___________________________________________ Great instructor, humorous, real life scenarios and very knowledgeable. ___________________________________________
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Berg Firearms Training and TacticsBerg Firearms Training and Tactics, Unknown, MI
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline