Cowboy Action shooting is a combination of Old West gunfighting with IPSC-style rules and scoring. These matches use single action revolvers, lever-action rifles, and side-by-side or pump shotguns in 3-gun courses based on cowboy scenarios. Like IPSC, these scenarios use props (tables, chairs, "horses", storefronts, etc) and are always different. Scoring is done on time only, with time penalties for misses. There is no power factor, but firearms and ammunition must comply with the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) rulebook. Shooters compete in Traditional, Modern (adjustable sights), Lady and Junior classes.
One of the unique aspects of SASS approved cowboy action shooting is the requirement placed on costuming. Each participant is required to adopt a shooting alias appropriate to a character or profession of the late 19th century, a Hollywood western star or an appropriate character from fiction. Their costume is then developed accordingly. Many matches (especially big matches) also include costume contests, trail rides, and other related cowboy activities in parallel with the shooting.
For more information:
The Single Action Shooting Society
1938 N. Batavia Street
Orange, CA 92665
714 998-1899
Fax 714 998-1992
SASSNET@AOL