shooting-sports/cowboy-action-shooting
Cowboy Action Shooting
Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) is a shooting sport that combines Old West firearms with themed scenarios. Competitors use single-action revolvers, lever-action rifles, and side-by-side or pump shotguns in timed stages.
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01 // LEARN
#01
What is Cowboy Action Shooting?
Understanding this shooting discipline
Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) is a shooting sport that combines Old West firearms with themed scenarios. Competitors use single-action revolvers, lever-action rifles, and side-by-side or pump shotguns in timed stages. The sport is governed by SASS (Single Action Shooting Society).
A unique aspect of CAS is the required period costume - shooters adopt aliases and dress in Old West attire. The community emphasis on fun and camaraderie makes cowboy action one of the most welcoming shooting sports for newcomers.
Types & Variations
Traditional (standard SASS)
Gunfighter (two revolvers)
Wild Bunch (1911 pistols)
Mounted Shooting
02 // START
#02
Getting Started with Cowboy Action
Equipment, costs, and tips for beginners
Getting into cowboy action 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
1Two single-action revolvers (.357/.45 Colt)
2Lever-action rifle (.357/.45 Colt)
3Side-by-side or pump shotgun
4Leather holster rig and belt
5Period-appropriate costume
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
1All firearms must be pre-1899 design or replicas
2Period costume required (1800s Old West)
3No black or camouflage clothing
4Adopt a unique alias
5Spirit of the game - sportsmanship first
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
Borrow or rent equipment before buying
Join a club posse for mentorship
Start with basic costume - upgrade over time
Match your rifle and revolver calibers for simplicity
Attend a match as a spectator first
What Does Cowboy Action Cost?
Realistic budget expectations
Getting Started
$1,500-3,000
Basic equipment to begin
Competitive Setup
$4,000-8,000+
Quality gear for serious shooters
Per event/match:$15-30 per match
Ammo per session:$40-80 (200+ rounds typical)
Hidden costs to consider: Buy used guns - the cowboy community is generous with advice. Budget $200-500 for basic costume and leather.
Cowboy Action Caliber Selection
Compare your options
| Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| .38 Special / .357 Magnum Shoot .38 Special loads in .357 guns. Light recoil, affordable, works in rifle and pistol. | Most shooters - best balance of cost, recoil, and availability |
| .45 Colt Traditional caliber. More recoil, more expensive ammo. Authentic feel. | Traditionalists who prioritize authenticity over economy |
| .44-40 / .44 Magnum Classic calibers. .44-40 is period-correct. .44 Magnum allows lighter .44 Special loads. | Collectors seeking period authenticity or those with existing .44s |
03 // ASK
#03
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about cowboy action
New to cowboy action? 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 cowboy action shooting. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us and we'll help you out.
A basic firearms setup costs $1,500-3,000 for quality used guns. Add $200-500 for leather gear and costume. Many clubs have loaner guns and members willing to help new shooters get started.
Yes, period costume is required for all SASS matches. However, you can start simple with jeans, boots, a Western shirt, and a hat. More elaborate costumes develop over time as part of the fun.
.38 Special/.357 Magnum is the most popular choice - light recoil, affordable ammo, and matches rifle/pistol caliber. .45 Colt is traditional but more expensive. Most competitors shoot .38 Special loads.
Every SASS member adopts a unique alias (shooting name) that fits the Old West theme. Aliases are registered to prevent duplicates. Examples include historical figures, fictional characters, or creative Western names.
04 // FIND
#04
Upcoming Events
Find cowboy action events near you
View details
MAY
20
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, May 20, 2026
Renton Fish & Game ClubRenton Fish & Game Club, Renton, WA
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MAY
20
Summer Trap League
Competition
Trap
Sign ups start at 5pm with shooting starting at 530 pm. We shoot 25- 16yard targets and 25-22 yard targets. League is 25 weeks long with a banquet at the end of league. Price is $17.00 per 50 targets which pays for targets and league banquet prizes. To be eligible for banquet at end of league you must have 22 shoots for league prizes, and 19 shoots to be eligible to come to banquet on September 19th. Questions, contact Dennis Rask at [email protected] Hope to see you on the trap field.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026• 17:00:00
Millvale Sportmen's ClubMillvale Sportmen's Club, Glenshaw, PA
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MAY
20
Senior Rifle
Competition
Indoor
Senior Rifle at Indoor Rifle & Pistol Range in Village of Clarkston, MI. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026• 18:00:00
Indoor Rifle & Pistol RangeIndoor Rifle & Pistol Range, Village of Clarkston, MI
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MAY
20
Vet Archery
Competition
Vet Archery at North Florida Archers in Jacksonville, FL. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026• 16:00:00
North Florida ArchersNorth Florida Archers, Jacksonville, FL
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MAY
20
PC Homeschool NASP Practice
Competition
Half of indoor range will be closed for practice.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Fort Grard Guns & ArcheryFort Grard Guns & Archery, Weatherford, TX
View details
MAY
20
PIPS USPSA Season 1 Match
Competition
USPSA
Pine Island Practical Shooters (www.piwpsc.org). Cost: $17 Non-member / $14 PIWPSC Member, pre-registered and pre-paid. 5 stages. Contact is Kevin at [email protected].
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Minnesota 3 GunMinnesota 3 Gun, Unknown, MN