3-gun shooting competitions are becoming increasingly popular among shooting enthusiasts.
This challenging sport gets its name from its use of three types of firearms: a rifle, a shotgun, and a pistol.
As a competitor, you’ll have to complete a firing course that requires you to use all three weapons to engage targets at different ranges and positions. You’ll then be scored based on your performance.
Some common targets used during this sport are clay pigeons, steel targets of different sizes, and other items organizers may designate. You’ll win the game if you hit most targets quickly.
If you’re new to the sport, you’ve probably thought about giving it a shot. But is it for you?
Here’s what newcomers must know about 3-gun shooting competitions and how to join one.
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What Is 3-Gun Shooting?
As mentioned before, it’s a sport where you use three types of firearms to hit targets within a given period. The game originated in the US but has gained popularity in other countries.
Your goal is to accurately hit all the targets using the different firearms within the shortest time. The targets can be static or moving and can consist of many materials. However, steel is the most preferred for its integrity.
While moving through the course, you’ll be engaging targets from different positions: standing, kneeling, or moving.
You’ll also participate in other challenges during the course, such as reloading and shooting from awkward positions. This tests your craftsmanship and shooting skills. Excelling in these challenges adds points to your belt. You may have to shoot while moving through obstacles and engage targets from multiple angles for the same reason.
You’ll need ammunition, magazines, and accessories like holsters, slings, and optics to help you with your performance. Consider buying bulk ammo to get yourself ready for any type of course.
Divisions
3-gun shooting competitions come with various divisions, each one with its own set of rules. Some of the basic divisions include the following:
- Limited
The limited division is considered entry-level because of the light equipment used. As a beginner, this is the best division to start with.
When using a shotgun, porting or using an optic isn’t allowed. It can be semi-auto or pump, with a maximum of 8+1 rounds and no detachable magazines.
It’s best to practice loading each round of ammo into the shotgun magazine by hand. Using a speed loader can get you disqualified or penalized depending on the game’s rules.
- Tactical
This division often has the stiffest competition, thus becoming the most popular one. The rules in this division are like those in the previous division, but you get to use a magnified optic.
- Heavy Metal (HeMan)
This division focuses on firearms with set specs.
First, the rifle must be 7.62 * 51 or larger with iron sights. Second, the shotgun must be a 12-gauge pump with no porting. Third, the handgun shouldn’t have any optics but must be .45ACP or larger with porting only.
- Open
This division allows almost anything, including speed-loaders for shotguns during different stages. The only limitation is that handgun magazines must be less than 171.25 mm long.
- Outlaw Open
The only consideration in this division is safety, but everything else is allowed. There aren’t any limitations on the specs of firearms.
How To Join
To join a 3-gun shooting competition, you need basic knowledge of firearm safety and marksmanship. Training sessions are also available for beginners to practice becoming better shooters.
Through them, you’ll learn more about the sport and gain experience with the firearms and equipment used in competitions.
Training and practice are more than about increasing your skill level. Doing them regularly is also key to avoiding injuries.
Practicing at a range or gun club is always advisable for safety. Pay attention to your movement during sessions and move around quickly to hit the targets. It’d help if you also practiced quick transitions between weapons.
If you feel confident in your skills and equipment, find a club or range that hosts 3-gun competitions and sign up. Take your time to spectate first before diving in. Watching others compete can help you understand some of the implications of the rules. Think of it as a practical demonstration of the do’s and don’ts. Getting these down can help you avoid penalties and disqualification when competing.
Additionally, you’ll need to acquire the right gear to join a competition. These include firearms, ammunition, holsters, belts, and all other necessary accessories. Try inquiring from the club about the gear they require for someone to compete in a 3-gun bout.
Shoot Your Shot
Once you’re on the field, prioritize everyone’s safety. Follow all the rules without taking unnecessary risks to win. From there, you can have a blast. Feel free to ask the experts for more advice about 3-gun competitions and similar bouts.