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
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JUL
11
INTRODUCTION TO ARCHERY
Competition
INTRODUCTION TO ARCHERY 07/11/2026 - At 9:00 AM This one and a half hour class will focus on proper shooting technique, use of archery equipment and basic safety range rules. Pre Registration Required 3 days prior to the class. Max of 10. For more information, please contact our JOAD Coordinator: Vernie Urbano at [email protected]. No Registration/sign-in accepted 4 or more days in advance. First come first serve.
Saturday, July 11, 2026
Oranco Bowmen Archery ClubOranco Bowmen Archery Club, Chino, CA
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JUL
11
NY Pistol Combat
Social
A tactical or practical shooting event emphasizing real-world shooting skills. Depending on the format, this may include timed stages with movement, barricade shooting, target transitions, and shoot/no-shoot decision-making. Rifle and/or pistol (per event rules) Belt, holster, and magazine pouches Ammunition (round count varies -- check with venue) Eye and ear protection (required) Contact Monroe-Chester Sportsmen's Club | for format details, round count, equipment requirements, and registration.
Saturday, July 11, 2026
Monroe-Chester Sportsmen's Club |Monroe-Chester Sportsmen's Club |, Chester, NY
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JUL
11
Performance Pistol Date 07/11/2026 Time 06:00 pm Place Waterman more info
Competition
Performance Pistol Date 07/11/2026 Time 06:00 pm Place Waterman more info
Saturday, July 11, 2026
DMEC Training & ConsultingDMEC Training & Consulting, Unknown, IL
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JUL
11
3 Gun
Competition
Setup 0800 shooting after setup is done Cost: $20 parma members $25 non parma members
Saturday, July 11, 2026• 08:00:00
Main Rifle Line, Lower Pits 1-4, Main Pits 2-8, Conex Pits 1-3, Benchrest, West Pit 3Main Rifle Line, Lower Pits 1-4, Main Pits 2-8, Conex Pits 1-3, Benchrest, West Pit 3, Parma, NJ
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JUL
11
Level 2 & 3 Class
Competition
No appointment is necessary, classes begin at 8:30 AM. Click here for more info
Saturday, July 11, 2026
McGrew & Associates, Inc.McGrew & Associates, Inc., Unknown, CA
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JUL
11
Cleaning
Competition
Cleaning. Shooting must end so the janitorial service can clean downrange.
Saturday, July 11, 2026• 16:00:00
Pueblo Municipal Shooters, Inc.Pueblo Municipal Shooters, Inc., Pueblo, CO