Gray Drifter

For what it's worth, I have two pairs of each, Pietta and Ruger. The issue with a question like this is everyone comes out of the wood work, to argue their case for one over the other. My suggestion is simply this: If you want to shoot .45 Colt and can score the Piettas for a good price, go for it. There is nothing wrong with them - they are fine irons.

I would have tried to find another shooting family to shadow for a few matches. Buying gear and learning the ropes is a lot different when there is five of you. I also would have just attended a few matches by myself first so sniff out the vibe of the clubs around me. Some are more welcoming and patient than others.

A few years ago we had one club add a par-time to a match to 'speed things up' - which as you can imagine was a nightmare for new shooters or those with any sort of physical handicap.

I have a pair of Grande Californians, they are beautifully engraved throughout with a blued barrel and grey case color hardened frame. If you want an engraved 4-click SAA on a budget, look no further.

You can always tell a manual should be re-written when it feels akin to deciphering the Dead Sea Scrolls. Way to much usually gets mentally filled in.

Good stuff. Again, speaking from my perspective of just starting out a few years ago - costuming was very confusing in the beginning. But then again, the whole handbook was. Working in the legal field, I see my share of safety manuals that are written well - but not for a new audience, rather an existing one. That was my gut reaction when trying to sift through everything with green eyes.

I agree cost is a big barrier, from my experience not really feeling welcomed is another. The local clubs need to create mentorship programs, which are somehow supported much more by SASS. That would go a long way in helping people navigate what to purchase and also become part of the community at their respective club(s). When we first started, my family visited half a dozen locations. Of those, only two were really welcoming. The others felt like an animal den where we were being sniffed out by long term members. Being snubbed by folks is not the Cowboy way and also akin to being a clique. Sure there was a couple friendlies at those places, but overall they were not a welcoming environment. If I was not so interested in being part of the sport, it may have been enough for me to just say the hell with this overall. Just keep in mind, it can be intimidating to new people walking into their first match. They have no idea where to stand, who to speak with or perhaps even what the hell is going on. Just think of all the things you mentally fill after being involved all these years. After a match director is contacted and the greenhorns announce they are coming a mentor should be assigned. First impressions are everything, keep that in mind. Those folks should then shadow their mentor for a match or two, get their questions answered and learn the basics of Cowboy Action Shooting. If this makes you laugh or roll your eyes, you’re part of the problem, and why a mentorship program is needed. I'm sure some clubs probably already operate like this in some capacity. If I owned one and sponsored CAS matches, it would be mandatory - if only just from a safety standpoint. Anyway just some food for thought. Cost AND feeling welcomed are barriers to entry.

Happy Friday Pards! Here is the very first Shooter Spotlight on my blog: Shooter Spotlight: McCandless

The least we could do.

Earlier this month we picked up the gun cart of Dogwood Dave. His spouse wanted to donate it to someone just starting out. My son, Wildcard Ace was that Cowboy Action Shooter. Today we installed a brass memory plate in Dogwood's honor. Pictures here.

Thank you kindly.

New Blog Post here. It also contains a link to the group I started for enthusiasts of the 1847 Walker and Dragoons.

With everyone stuck at home and looking for things to read, I'm adding a shooter spotlight section to my blog. If interested, or know someone who may be, stop by and see what it's all about! Shooter Spotlights

Legend holds the Colt SAA No. 2 was wielded only in the earliest days of Cowboy Action Shooting.

My family has a set of both for our three young shooters. My opinion is the Wrangler is a nicer firearm. I just blogged about the Wranglers a few weeks ago: Ruger Wrangler Review

I'm sorry, but if you try to force your way into my home all bets are off. I'd rather be judged by 12 than carried by 6.

Wow, some great suggestions here!

Garryowen! Joining the Cav was one of the best choices I could have made as a young man. Our horses were Bradley's though!

Some ideas for future trips. These are places with historic firearms, amazing artifacts and living history to inspire you. Travel Plans: Museums of The West

What category do you think I can shoot them in? Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16SIvVKtuks

That is hilarious!!!

I just made a blog post about loading blocks and they feature three designed by Marshal. Check it out here.

Thank you very kindly! Working on more posts now.

Here you are sir: Graydrifter Saloon