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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
date is Wednesday, . If you would like to be added to the class list, please
Competition
CCW
Iowa Concealed Carry Class send us a message. Stay Connected Proudly powered by WordPress
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Dan Marx FirearmsDan Marx Firearms, Des Moines, IA
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MAR
18
22 Rifle Only
Competition
.22 Rifle Only March 18, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm See more details RO's Eric KG & Clint B March 18, 2026 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm See more details
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Newberg Rifle & Pistol ClubNewberg Rifle & Pistol Club, Newberg, OR
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MAR
18
Indoor Archery Shoots - Wednesdays, 6:30pm
Competition
Indoor 22 Shoots - Fridays, 7pm, January 16 - April 17 Federation Meeting - Tuesday, February 24, 7pm Salem Hunt Club
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
East Palestine Sportsmen's ClubEast Palestine Sportsmen's Club, East Palestine, OH
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MAR
18
Basics and Re-Familiarization Night
Night Shoot
Are you brand new to the shooting sport or do you have some experience but have gotten rusty? Do you have a new range toy you want to try out or get some help with? Come out to Basics and Re-Familiarization Night and brush up on (or dust off) your skills!
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Peninsula Rifle and Pistol ClubPeninsula Rifle and Pistol Club, Port Angeles, WA
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MAR
18
Air Rifle Practice
Competition
This is a .22 LR rimfire match at the Education Building in Harrison—straightforward competition shooting that won't break the bank and gives you real trigger time against other shooters. March 18th at 6:30 PM. Rimfire matches are the entry point for a lot of competitors because ammo is cheap and the guns are reliable. You'll shoot against a real field and see where you stack up. It's honest work.
Wednesday, March 18, 2026• 18:30:00
Education BuildingEducation Building, Harrison, OH
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MAR
18
Rattlers Air Rifle
Competition
Indoor
Airgun competition uses compressed-air-powered rifles or pistols to engage precision targets at 10 meters. This is the same discipline shot at the Olympic Games and is one of the most accessible entry points into competitive shooting. | Detail | Info | |--------|------| | Distance | 10 meters | | Divisions | Air Rifle, Air Pistol | | Venue | Indoor (typically) | | Round count | 40-60 shots | Indoor, climate-controlled environment Minimal noise -- no ear protection needed in most cases No age restrictions at most clubs Develops precision fundamentals applicable to all shooting Contact BRC Indoor Range for equipment requirements and entry fees.
Wednesday, March 18, 2026• 14:00:00
BRC Indoor RangeBRC Indoor Range, Beloit, WI
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline