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.
01 // LEARN
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
02 // START
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
Safety & Rules
Know these before your first shot
Pro Tips for Beginners
Advice from experienced shooters
What Does Cowboy Action Cost?
Realistic budget expectations
$1,500-3,000
Basic equipment to begin
$4,000-8,000+
Quality gear for serious shooters
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
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
Upcoming Events
Find cowboy action events near you
CQB Instructor Course
CQB Instructor Course at Ouachita Parish Rifle Range in West Monroe, LA. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Trap League - Trap Field - Paul Bauer
Trap League - Trap Field - Paul Bauer at Pitcairn-Monroeville Sportsman's Club, Inc. in North Versailles, PA. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Chinese Gun Club of Hawaii CMP EIC Pistol Matches
Chinese Gun Club of Hawaii CMP EIC Pistol Matches at Civilian Marksmanship Program in P O Box 32719 Juneau, AK. Check with the host club for match details, start times, and registration.
Monday Night Trap! Open to the public!
No registration needed, just wander on by between 6-8:30 pm.
First Shots Course - | 704Firearms
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Cowboy Scores are Posted for
for this year’s dates. Download PDF Scores Below All Shootin Irons were workin fine with Quick Trigger Tim gettin his First Win, congratulations Tim ! Got a bit warm in the afternoon but we pulled through to make it a great shoot although two shooters left there memory back in their Buckboard, we won’t make mention of any names, lol Cowboy 10-12-25 Marauders Officers