Cowboy Action Shooting emerged in the early 1980s as a unique competitive shooting sport that captures the spirit of the Old West. Originating at the Coto de Caza Shooting Range in California, it quickly gained popularity among firearms enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Participants in Cowboy Action Shooting use period-correct firearms, including single-action revolvers, lever-action rifles, and shotguns, to engage targets in a timed competition while dressed in Old West-style attire.
The sport’s appeal lies in its blend of marksmanship, historical reenactment, and camaraderie. Shooters adopt aliases and personas from the 19th century, adding a theatrical element to the competitions. As the sport grew, organizations like the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) formed to establish rules and promote events, contributing to its widespread popularity.
Today, Cowboy Action Shooting boasts tens of thousands of participants worldwide. Regular matches and championship events draw competitors of all ages and skill levels. The sport continues to evolve, with variations like mounted shooting and long-range rifle competitions expanding its scope while maintaining its core focus on Old West firearms and culture.
Origins of Cowboy Action Shooting
Cowboy Action Shooting emerged in the early 1980s as a competitive sport celebrating America’s Old West heritage. It blends historical firearms with marksmanship and period-accurate costumes.
Influence of the Old West
The late 19th century American frontier left an indelible mark on popular culture. Cowboy Action Shooting draws inspiration from this era, showcasing revolvers, lever-action rifles, and shotguns typical of the period. Participants often adopt personas based on historical figures or Western archetypes.
Movies and literature romanticizing the Old West fueled interest in this shooting sport. Enthusiasts meticulously research and recreate authentic clothing, gear, and firearms from the 1860s to 1899.
Emergence of CAS Competitions
The first organized Cowboy Action Shooting event took place in 1981 at the Coto de Caza Shooting Range in California. Participants competed using period-correct firearms and attire. This initial gathering sparked widespread interest among shooting enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
In 1987, the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) was founded to promote and standardize the sport. SASS established rules, safety protocols, and categories for competition. The organization’s efforts led to rapid growth in participant numbers and event frequency.
By the 1990s, Cowboy Action Shooting had spread across the United States and internationally. Local clubs formed, hosting regular matches and annual events. The sport’s popularity continues to grow, attracting shooters of all ages and backgrounds.
The Single Action Shooting Society (SASS)
The Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) is the premier organization for cowboy action shooting enthusiasts worldwide. Founded in 1987, SASS oversees competitive events and establishes rules to ensure safety and consistency in the sport.
Formation of SASS
SASS emerged from the growing popularity of cowboy action shooting in the early 1980s. Harper Creigh, known by his alias Judge Roy Bean, played a pivotal role in its creation. Along with Gordon Davis and Bill Hahn, Creigh organized matches using traditional Western firearms.
In 1987, these efforts culminated in the official formation of SASS. The organization quickly gained traction among shooters across the United States. It provided a structured framework for competitions and standardized rules.
SASS membership grew rapidly, attracting participants from all 50 states and over 20 countries. This expansion solidified its position as the leading authority in cowboy action shooting.
Rules and Regulations
SASS serves as both the governing and sanctioning body for cowboy action shooting. It establishes comprehensive guidelines to ensure safety and fair competition. These rules cover firearm types, costume requirements, and shooting procedures.
Participants must use period-correct firearms, including single-action revolvers, lever-action rifles, and shotguns. Costumes must reflect the Old West era, adding to the sport’s unique atmosphere.
SASS sanctions various levels of competition, from local matches to state, regional, and national championships. It oversees more than 400 affiliated clubs worldwide, promoting consistent standards across events.
The organization also maintains a classification system for shooters, ensuring competitive balance. This system allows participants to compete against others of similar skill levels.
Equipment and Firearms
Cowboy Action Shooting demands specific firearms and equipment that reflect the Old West era. Participants use a combination of revolvers, rifles, and shotguns, often replicas or original models from the late 19th century.
Historical Firearms and Modern Replicas
Revolvers form the backbone of Cowboy Action Shooting. Single-action models like the Colt Single Action Army and Ruger Vaquero are popular choices. These handguns require the shooter to cock the hammer manually before each shot, mimicking the guns of the Wild West.
Lever-action rifles, such as the Winchester Model 1873 and its modern equivalents, are essential for rifle stages. These firearms feature a lever mechanism that ejects spent casings and loads new rounds.
Shotguns in the sport typically include side-by-side double-barrels or pump-action models like the Winchester 1897. Modern replicas of these historical firearms allow shooters to participate without acquiring rare antiques.
Classification of Guns
Firearms in Cowboy Action Shooting are classified based on their action types and historical accuracy. Revolvers must be single-action, while rifles are primarily lever-action designs.
Shotguns fall into two main categories: side-by-side double-barrels and pump-actions. Some events may allow certain types of break-action shotguns as well.
Calibers are often period-correct, with .45 Colt being common for revolvers and rifles. Shotguns typically use 12-gauge or 16-gauge shells.
Modifications to firearms are strictly regulated to maintain historical authenticity and fairness in competition. Sights, grips, and other components must adhere to specific guidelines set by organizing bodies like the Single Action Shooting Society.
Competition Structure
Cowboy action shooting competitions are structured around timed stages that test participants’ speed and accuracy with period-correct firearms. Shooters navigate courses designed to mimic Old West scenarios while engaging multiple targets.
Stages and Targets
Stages in cowboy action shooting recreate scenes from the American frontier. Competitors might encounter saloon showdowns, stagecoach robberies, or cattle rustler pursuits. Each stage features a mix of steel and paper targets. Steel targets produce audible feedback when hit, while paper targets require visual confirmation.
Matches typically include 6-12 stages. Targets vary in size and distance, challenging shooters’ skills. Some targets may move or react when hit. Props like fake buildings, wagons, and livestock add authenticity to the shooting scenarios.
Scoring and Penalties
Scoring in cowboy action shooting balances speed and accuracy. Timers record a shooter’s overall stage time. Each missed target incurs a time penalty, usually 5-10 seconds. Procedural errors, such as shooting targets out of sequence, result in additional penalties.
Matches rank competitors based on their total time across all stages. Categories divide shooters by age, gender, and shooting style. Some events use a handicap system to level the playing field between novices and experienced shooters.
Safety violations carry severe penalties, including match disqualification. Proper firearm handling and adherence to range rules are paramount in cowboy action shooting competitions.
The Sport’s Unique Culture
Cowboy action shooting stands out for its immersive Old West atmosphere and strong sense of community. Participants embrace historical reenactment while fostering friendships through shared enthusiasm for the sport.
Role of Costumes and Aliases
Costumes play a central role in cowboy action shooting. Participants dress in period-appropriate attire, reflecting the 1860s to 1890s era. This includes cowboy hats, boots, vests, and other authentic Western wear.
Shooters adopt unique aliases, often inspired by historical figures or Western characters. These personas add to the sport’s playful nature and help create a more immersive experience.
The attention to historical detail extends beyond clothing. Many events feature Old West-style props and sets, creating a vivid backdrop for competitions.
Camaraderie and Spirit of the Game
Cowboy action shooting is known for its welcoming atmosphere. Experienced shooters often mentor newcomers, sharing tips and encouragement. This friendly environment helps build a strong sense of community among participants.
The “Spirit of the Game” is a core principle. It emphasizes fair play, good sportsmanship, and maintaining the Old West ambiance. Shooters are expected to compete with honor and help maintain a positive atmosphere.
Social gatherings are common at events. Participants often share meals, stories, and camaraderie before and after competitions. This social aspect is integral to the sport’s appeal and longevity.
Key Events and Championships
Cowboy Action Shooting features several major competitions that attract participants from around the world. These events showcase the sport’s popularity and competitive spirit.
The ‘End of Trail’ World Championship
The ‘End of Trail’ is the premier event in Cowboy Action Shooting. Hosted annually by the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS), it serves as the World Championship of the sport. The event typically spans several days and includes various shooting disciplines.
Competitors from across the globe gather to test their skills with period-correct firearms. Categories range from traditional cowboy to more modern interpretations. The championship not only focuses on shooting accuracy but also emphasizes authentic Old West attire and aliases.
Winners of the ‘End of Trail’ earn prestigious titles and recognition within the Cowboy Action Shooting community. The event also features vendors, entertainment, and social gatherings that celebrate the Old West lifestyle.
Regional and International Competitions
Cowboy Action Shooting’s popularity has led to numerous regional and international events. The ‘Land Run’ in Oklahoma is a notable regional competition that attracts shooters from across the United States.
European countries have embraced the sport, with Norway hosting significant Cowboy Action Shooting events. These competitions often incorporate local historical themes while maintaining the core principles of the sport.
Regional matches serve as qualifiers for larger championships and provide opportunities for shooters to hone their skills. They also play a crucial role in growing the sport’s community and introducing new participants to Cowboy Action Shooting.
International events foster cultural exchange and showcase the global appeal of Old West-inspired competitive shooting.
Growth and Community
Cowboy Action Shooting has experienced rapid expansion since its inception in the 1980s. The sport’s growth is evident in the increasing number of affiliated clubs and the strong sense of community among participants.
Expansion of Affiliated Clubs
CAS clubs have spread across the United States and internationally. In the early 1990s, only a handful of clubs existed. By 2024, hundreds of affiliated clubs operate worldwide.
These clubs host regular matches and events, attracting both seasoned shooters and newcomers. Many clubs have invested in dedicated facilities, featuring period-correct props and targets to enhance the Old West experience.
The geographical reach of CAS has expanded significantly. Clubs can now be found in Europe, Australia, and parts of Asia, showcasing the sport’s global appeal.
Role of the CAS Community
The CAS community plays a vital role in the sport’s growth and sustainability. Experienced shooters often mentor newcomers, fostering a welcoming atmosphere at events.
CAS enthusiasts frequently engage in:
- Sharing tips and techniques
- Organizing social gatherings
- Collaborating on costume design
- Volunteering at matches
This strong sense of camaraderie has created a tight-knit network of participants. Many shooters travel to different clubs and events, forging friendships across regions.
The community’s dedication to historical accuracy and sportsmanship has helped maintain the sport’s integrity. This commitment ensures that CAS remains true to its roots while attracting new generations of participants.
Safety and Skills Development
Cowboy Action Shooting emphasizes rigorous safety protocols and continual improvement of marksmanship. Participants focus on developing their skills while adhering to strict safety guidelines.
Importance of Safety Protocols
Safety is paramount in Cowboy Action Shooting. Strict protocols are enforced at all events to prevent accidents and ensure a secure environment for participants and spectators. Range officers meticulously oversee each stage, verifying that firearms are handled properly and safely at all times.
Shooters must wear appropriate safety gear, including eye and ear protection. Firearms are kept unloaded until the shooter is on the firing line. Clear safety areas are designated for gun handling and practice.
The Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) and National Rifle Association (NRA) provide comprehensive safety guidelines. These rules are regularly updated to address new concerns and maintain the sport’s excellent safety record.
Focus on Marksmanship and Skills
Cowboy Action Shooting demands precision and speed. Participants continuously work to improve their marksmanship and gun handling abilities. Regular practice is essential to maintain and enhance performance.
Skills development includes:
- Quick and accurate target acquisition
- Smooth transitions between firearms
- Proper stance and shooting form
- Efficient reloading techniques
Many clubs offer training sessions and clinics to help shooters refine their skills. These events cover topics such as:
- Firearms maintenance
- Period-correct shooting techniques
- Stage strategy and planning
Competitions provide a platform for shooters to test their abilities and track their progress. The sport’s emphasis on both accuracy and speed encourages a well-rounded approach to skills development.
Variations and Related Disciplines
Cowboy action shooting has inspired several offshoot disciplines that blend Old West themes with different firearms or equipment. These variations add new challenges and styles while maintaining the spirit of historical reenactment.
Wild Bunch Action Shooting
Wild Bunch Action Shooting takes inspiration from the 1969 film “The Wild Bunch.” This discipline incorporates more modern firearms, specifically those from the early 20th century. Competitors use 1911-style pistols, lever-action rifles, and 1897-style pump shotguns.
Matches follow a similar format to traditional cowboy action shooting, with timed stages and multiple targets. The use of semi-automatic pistols adds a different dynamic to the competition. Participants often dress in attire reminiscent of the Mexican Revolution era, further enhancing the historical atmosphere.
Cowboy Mounted Shooting
Cowboy Mounted Shooting combines horsemanship with firearms proficiency. Riders navigate a course on horseback while shooting at balloon targets with specially loaded blank ammunition. The sport requires a unique set of skills, blending equestrian abilities with accurate shooting.
Competitors use two single-action revolvers, typically .45 caliber, loaded with black powder blanks. The heat and burning particles from the blank cartridges pop the balloons. Courses vary in complexity, often featuring different patterns and obstacles.
This discipline attracts both experienced riders and shooting enthusiasts. It has gained popularity for its exciting blend of speed, precision, and horsemanship.