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
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JUN
11
Club practice - 600 & 1,000
Competition
Club practice - 600 & 1,000 at Alliance Rifle Club in Malvern, OH. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Thursday, June 11, 2026
Alliance Rifle ClubAlliance Rifle Club, Malvern, OH
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JUN
11
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, June 11, 2026
Easton Newberry Archery CenterEaston Newberry Archery Center, Newberry, FL
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JUN
11
USPSA Match Night - Mountain City Practical Shooters
Competition
USPSA
Night Shoot
Weekly USPSA Level 1 Match hosted by Mountain City Practical Shooters. Location: Appalachian Gun, Pawn & Range 140 Shelby Ln, Jasper, GA 30143 Arrive: 6:00 PM (New Shooter Briefing) First Shots: 6:30 PM Match Fee: $20 Open to new and experienced shooters. Come learn, compete, and have fun in a safe, supportive environment. Schedule subject to change due to weather, and holidays.
Thursday, June 11, 2026• 18:00:00
Appalacian Gun, Pawn & RangeAppalacian Gun, Pawn & Range, Jasper, GA
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JUN
11
NRA Basic Pistol Class
Competition
Click Here for Registration Details
Thursday, June 11, 2026• 17:30:00
Tiverton Rod & Gun ClubTiverton Rod & Gun Club, Tiverton, RI
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JUN
11
Chicken & Ribs Dinner
Competition
Chicken & Ribs Dinner at Durand Rod and Gun Club in TN. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Thursday, June 11, 2026
Durand Rod and Gun ClubDurand Rod and Gun Club, Unknown, TN
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JUN
11
Howell’s Gunslinger Match – 2026
Competition
Night Shoot
Howell’s Gun Shop is pleased to present the Howell’s Gunslinger Match! Howell’s pistol match is designed to be safe, fun and challenging! Stages change weekly and can include: safe movement with barricades, strong and support hand shooting, steel plates, low light, moving targets, bowling pin shoots, accuracy exercises, speed exercises and more! Put your skills to the test! Howell’s Gunslinger Match is open to the not-so-beginner shooter who can safely handle and shoot their handgun. While we d
Thursday, June 11, 2026• 14:00:00
Howell's Gun ShopHowell's Gun Shop, Gray, ME