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
JUL
1
PC Homeschool NASP practice
Competition
Half of indoor range will be closed for practice.
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Fort Grard Guns & ArcheryFort Grard Guns & Archery, Weatherford, TX
View details
JUL
1
Volunteer Grounds work
Competition
Volunteer Grounds work at Northern Dutchess Rod & Gun Club in Rhinebeck, NY. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Northern Dutchess Rod & Gun ClubNorthern Dutchess Rod & Gun Club, Rhinebeck, NY
View details
JUL
1
Boy Scouts
Competition
Boy Scouts at Ashaway Sportsman's Club in RI. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Ashaway Sportsman's ClubAshaway Sportsman's Club, Unknown, RI
View details
JUL
1
Iconic Film Series “Dirty Dancing”
Competition
Night Shoot
Join us in the theatre for our 2026 Iconic Film Series, celebrating Cinema Classics and Family Fun. As well as a screening of Dirty Dancing, expect specialty drinks, bringing the movie to life. Date night. Don't leave Baby in the Corner!
Wednesday, July 1, 2026• 19:00:00
Happy State Bank Expo HallHappy State Bank Expo Hall, Kerrville, TX
View details
JUL
1
WI CCW
Competition
CCW
WI CCW at Kenosha, WI = Paladin Protection Academy, 7528 Pershing Blvd Ste B, Kenosha, WI 53142 in CA. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Wednesday, July 1, 2026• 18:00:00
Kenosha, WI = Paladin Protection Academy, 7528 Pershing Blvd Ste B, Kenosha, WI 53142Kenosha, WI = Paladin Protection Academy, 7528 Pershing Blvd Ste B, Kenosha, WI 53142, Unknown, CA
View details
JUL
1
Virginia State Trapshooting Associations - VA State Shoot
Competition
Trap
04/12/2026 WGC Monthly Shooting Event 06/06/2026 – 06/07/2026 Virginia State Trapshooting Association Hall of Fame Shoot / Virginia AIM State Shoot 07/08/2026 – 07/12/2026 West Virginia Trapshooting Associations – WV State Shoot TBA Virginia Trapshooting Association – Grand Old Dominion Recent news
Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Chester Rod & Gun ClubChester Rod & Gun Club, Chester, VT
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline
Shooting Locations
View allShops & Clubs
View allFARM
Location TBD
Shooting Range
Fraternal Order of Eagles Poste #397
Springfield
Shooting Range
Lineage Defense
Location TBD
Training
Brown Township Sportsman's Club
Malvern·4.8 stars
Shooting Range
Technical College of the Rockies
Delta
Shooting Range
Iosco Sportsmen's Club - Wurtsmith Range
Oscoda·4.9 stars
Shooting Range