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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
MAR
19
Main Calendar
Competition
Main Calendar County Board Meeting March 19, 2026, 9:00 AM County Board Meeting 2026-03-19T09:00:00 Event Location Oconto WI 54152 More Details Hazard Mitigation Plan Steering Committee March 26, 2026, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Hazard Mitigation Plan Steering Committee 2026-03-26T10:00:00 Event Location TBD More Details
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Machickanee Public Shooting RangeMachickanee Public Shooting Range, Oconto Falls, WI
View details
MAR
19
WPRC Orientation (MR & IDR)
Competition
WPRC Orientation. Review of Rules and By-laws. You must review our Rules & By-laws prior to orientation, you will be required to sign and attest to having read them. You can view them here: Club Rules and By-laws There is an option to download them as a PDF if you prefer to print them and read them. Prior to coming to the orientation, please make sure you sign up for a GOAL membership at www.goal.org - this is a requirement for membership. Orientation includes 2 parts: Part 1: Rules Discussion and History; Grounds Tour; Indoor Range Training Part 2: Live Fire Safety Evaluation Both parts of orientation will be held this evening.
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Wpr ClubWpr Club, Unknown, KS
View details
MAR
19
Open Range-Handgun
Competition
Open Range-Handgun March 19, 2026 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm See more details RO's Rich F. & Justin March 19, 2026 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm See more details
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Newberg Rifle & Pistol ClubNewberg Rifle & Pistol Club, Newberg, OR
View details
MAR
19
March
Competition
March January February March April May June July August September October November December 2026 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 1 2 3 4 Jump To Category: Main Calendar (2) - Main Calendar (2) Main Calendar County Board Meeting March 19, 2026, 9:00 AM County Board Meeting 2026-03-19T09:00:00 Event Location Oconto WI 54152 More Details Hazard Mitigation Plan Steering Committee M
Thursday, March 19, 2026
Machickanee Public Shooting RangeMachickanee Public Shooting Range, Oconto Falls, WI
View details
MAR
19
*Court Ordered* Colorado Firearm Safety Training
Competition
Instructor
This Class is compliant with HB 24-1174 and all instructors teaching this class are verified by their required County Sheriff. We provide court-approved firearms safety training for individuals required to complete a Firearms Safety course due to minor firearms-related offenses. In partnership with several Colorado courts and probation departments, this program serves as an educational alternative to penalties by promoting responsible firearm ownership. Students are treated like any other hand
Thursday, March 19, 2026• 09:00:00
RMFT OfficeRMFT Office, Centennial, CO
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MAR
19
Ladies’ Night at Stock & Barrel
Competition
Ladies
Night Shoot
Ladies' Night is a fun and welcoming event offered for women of all skill levels! Every month we explore a new topic for both new and experienced female shooters. MARCH TOPIC: Shooting with Confidence We start with a short educational/training session and then it's out to the range for some fun. We provide guns for use (ammunition purchased separately). What To Know For Ladies' Night:– You must register in advance to attend.– $15 registration fee. Register here!R
Thursday, March 19, 2026• 19:00:00
Stock & Barrel Gun ClubStock & Barrel Gun Club, Eagan, MN
05 // LOCATE
#05
Where to Shoot
Ranges, clubs, and shops for this discipline
Shooting Locations
View allShops & Clubs
View allCopperhead Creek Shooting Club
Marble Falls
Shooting Range
Claythorne Lodge
Columbus
Shooting Range
United Defense Tactical
Costa Mesa·4.2 stars
Shooting Range
The Range at Ballantyne
Indian Land·4.6 stars
Shooting Range
Boise Gun Club
Kuna·4.7 stars
Shooting Range
H&H Shooting Sports
Oklahoma City·3.7 stars
Shooting Range