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Posted

Howdy, folks!

I’m brand new to SASS and cowboy action shooting, and I’m really excited to dive in. That said, I’ll be honest—I’m feeling a little overwhelmed by all the gear I’ll need to get started. I don’t have much yet, but I’m planning to make my first official purchase soon: a rifle. I’ve been offered a worked-over 1873 for a good price, so I’m hoping it’ll be good to go right out of the gate. The only adjustments I’m expecting are the ones to the nut behind the stock!

Here’s what I’ve got on my mind:

  • Firearms: As mentioned, I’ll be picking up the 1873 soon. For revolvers, I’ve mostly settled on a pair of Ruger Vaquero Bisleys in .357/.38. Are there any tips or things I should be aware of before I make the purchase? And any thoughts on shotguns would be appreciated when I get around to that, I almost completely lost when looking at shotgun brands and models. 
  • Costuming: I think I have most of what I need to pull together a basic outfit, but I’m missing a proper hat. What are the most popular or practical choices for headgear? Also, I’d like to hear about footwear—what works best for the sport while still keeping the cowboy vibe?
  • Gun Cart: Is a cart essential right away, or can I get by without one for my first matches? If it’s a must-have, what features should I prioritize for something durable but beginner-friendly?
  • Reloading: Everyone says reloading is important for cowboy action shooting. How soon should I invest in reloading equipment, and what’s a good beginner setup?

I’d like to take the "buy once, cry once" approach—I’d rather save for good-quality items than end up replacing gear later. That said, I’m not rolling in money, so I need to prioritize my purchases carefully.

If you’ve got any tips, tricks, or lessons learned from your own experience, I’d really appreciate the help!

Thanks in advance, and I’m looking forward to seeing y’all on the range!

- Katfish Kid

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Posted (edited)

Welcome KatfishKid

Everyone will most likely tell you to visit some shoots and see what is being shot and try some out before you purchase anything.  I find that many places folks will try and get you to shoot some with borrowed guns and ammo just to let you try it out.  Before you buy bisleys you need to shoot some to make sure they fit your hand.  I have small hands and cannot shoot them comfortably duelist style which is how I shoot.  A basic outfit is bluejeans, longsleve shirt and some kind of boots.  No hat is required but is good to hhelp keep brass off you and protection from the sun.  However if you are shooting Classic Cowboy or B-Western then other costume requirements kickin as well as other requirements for firearms, holsters, etc.  A lot of clubs have loaner carts you can use until you get your own.  Reloading is a must to offset the cost of buying loaded rounds plus you can load them to your specifications.

Scout

Edited by Cowtown Scout, SASS #53540 L
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Posted (edited)

Welcome aboard Katfish Kid, to the best game and folks going!

Get to some matches as Scout advised and try equipment before buying if at all possible. It will be the easiest way to get what you like upfront. A cart will be pretty much a necessity. Some clubs have loaners or you might be able to use someone else's if they have room for the start. But trying to carry everything from stage to stage and keeping muzzles up will get old real quick.

Most of all, have fun!!

EH

 

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Edited by Eyesa Horg
I or Otto left out wors!
  • Like 2
Posted
11 minutes ago, Cowtown Scout, SASS #53540 L said:

Welcome KatfishKid

Everyone will most likely tell you to visit some shoots and see what is being shot and try some out before you purchase anything.  I find that many places folks will try and get you to shoot some with borrowed guns and ammo just to let you try it out.  Before you buy bisleys you need to shoot some to make sure they fit your hand.  I have small hands and cannot shoot them comfortably duelist style which is how I shoot.  A basic outfit is bluejeans, longsleve shirt and some kind of boots.  No hat is required but is good to hhelp keep brass off you and protection from the sun.  However if you are shooting Classic Cowboy or B-Western then other costume requirements kickin as well as other requirements for firearms, holsters, etc.  A lot of clubs have loaner carts you can use until you get your own.  Reloading is a must to offset the cost of buying loaded rounds plus you can load them to your specifications.

Scout

Thank you for the welcome and all the great advice! I should have mentioned that I’ve already attended a couple of shoots to observe and take notes. While I haven’t had the chance to shoot any stages yet, those experiences have been incredibly helpful in getting a feel for the sport.

My uncle and his wife are both competitors, and they’ve been an amazing resource of knowledge and encouragement. It was actually shooting their pistols that led me to lean toward Ruger Vaquero Bisleys. With my large hands, the Bisley grip just felt more natural to me. That said, since revolvers will likely be my most expensive purchase, I may need to plan on spending a bit more time shooting before I fully commit.

The different classes are another part of the game that fascinates me. I’m especially intrigued by the idea of shooting black powder someday, but that’s a goal for further down the trail when I can start reloading my own ammo. Costuming for categories like Classic Cowboy and B-Western also looks like a ton of fun, but I’ll ease into that as I get more comfortable with the sport and the community.

Speaking of the community, I’ve got to say, what an incredible group of folks! Even with my limited exposure, the hospitality and willingness to teach I’ve encountered have been second to none. It’s unlike anything I’ve experienced in a competitive environment, and it’s making me even more excited to be part of this world.

 

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Posted

Howdy, Katfish Kid,

 

     Welcome to CAS and SASS!

 

If you list your location, you will get many invitations to CAS matches in your area.

Don't forget to include reloading gear in your budget.  

Get reloading equipment that will last many years.  You might be a cowboy for decades!  :lol::P

 

All the best,

Slow Mo Dern

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Posted

A good quality gun cart is one of the best things you'll ever buy.   Some of them can be quite expensive, but they are worth it.   You don't wanna be carting around thousands of dollars worth of guns in a cheap cart that will batter them to death.  (I exaggerate a little, but not much.)  By the same token, a good, if expensive gun cart will last you a lifetime, a cheap but serviceable one will do well for a few years, and then fall apart.

Costuming can be very simple.    A pair of jeans, and a long sleeve shirt are all you need.   The shirt should have at least a vaguely "western" look/feel to it, but that is very open to interpretation.   Technically, a hat is not required, outside of specific costume categories that require one.  That said, I strongly recommend one to shield you head from fall brass.   Reproduction US Cavalry Kepi hats are kinda cool, and are in some ways the old west version of a cowboy hat.  You don't have to go with a full uniform.  You can always claim to be a veteran who like to wear his old hat.  Prices are from dirt cheap to expensively accurate replicas.   But, if you go with one of those, I strongly recommend a bandanna tied around your neck to prevent spent brass falling down the back of your shirt!   On the other hand, a generic Stetson never hurts, and depending on the one you get, can be surprisingly inexpensive.  As far as footwear goes, you don't have to wear traditional "Cowboy Boots" if you don't want to, again excepting a specific category that requires them.  Lace up boots are fine, and often more comfortable, for example.    You can always add more accessories, more variation, and other shirt, pants, and hats over time if you desire.

Holsters...   Go to Cabela's.   You can get a pair of generic old west holsters that'll carry all of the most popular guns for, well, when I got them they were 10 bucks each.  Might be around 25 today.   If you ever do decide to get more fancy holsters, gunbelt and such, these can be held as backups or for loaners to a friend you bring along.   Technically, you don't need a gunbelt, you can run your regular belt that holds up your pants through the loops on the generic things.   Works well.   (As long as you can properly tighten your belt!)    Interestingly enough, while I do have other holsters, and a couple of nice belts, I still use these generic holsters unless I'm using an unusual gun that does not fit in them.   I do always put the holsters on a gun belt.

Other gear...  Get a nice small pouch to carry your ammo in.   Trying to carry ammo in belt loops may look cool, but it's more trouble that it's worth!   Other ammo carrying thingees exist, and are not all that expensive.   Also, another bucket of something you can keep on your cart for spent brass is a good idea too.

Reloading is a must!   If you do this more than once a year, having to constantly buy factory ammo is too expensive.

Lee dies are usually less expensive than RCBS, and IMO, of superior quality.   A simple turret press'll do ya fine for .38/.357.   You'll need a tumbler to clean brass, and either a scale or, even better, a powder dispenser that automatically measures out a load of the proper weight every time you empty the pan to dump the powder into the case.   


One other thing, I recommend you reload shotshells as well.   I know a lot of people don't, but I think it just makes sense.   A good MEC press will never do you wrong.   Been loading AA's for decades with the press I inherited from my Dad that's gotta be at least 70 years old, and so are some of the hulls!

Or, if you wanna get fancy, load all brass Magtech hulls, but you'll need a special press for the oversized dies.  And go with the much more expensive CH4D ones, not the RCBS ones.  You'll be glad you did.

A Winchester 73 will never steer you wrong, it's the most popular rifle for a reason.   (Although, personally, I prefer the Lightning, but I am weird)   Rugers are tanks and many will tell you they will never fail.   I can't argue with that; they are exceptionally well made guns.   But they don't appeal to me personally.   I use real Colts when I can, Colt Clones when I must.   To me, it's just more fun.

Shotguns are another mixed bag.    97 pump, 87 lever, hammerless or hammered double...   Lotsa good choices and prices can range from very affordable to very expensive.   Most will tell you short barrels, but there are a small number of pards who like long barrels.    I have both short and long myself, but I have come to prefer long ones.   The 97 is easy to master, as is the double.   The 87 is fun, but has more of a learning curve. 

What's the best double?   Well, people argue about this all the time, and there are a lot of good ones to choose from.   But if you can afford it, get yourself a Parker.  You'll never regret it, and good shooters CAN still be had for a reasonable cost if you look long enough.  (Believe it or not, less than a $1000 is doable.   It might be ugly, but it'll still WORK.)     With the SxS, I think the long barrel is even more important as the extra weight absorbs more recoil.

And that's about all I can recommend

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Posted

My recommendation...truly KNOW the person that you're getting info. from.

 

I know that this is the SASS forum, but you'd be surprised at how much bad info. can be found here.

 

Phantom

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Posted

howdy.gif.bdd71ec19a13cdb4d13cf7c7b96e74ad.gif and Welcome!  An old homily that's probably still valid is:  "...come for the shooting, stay for the people."   Some of my longest term and best friends  are folks I met since starting to participate in cowboy action shooting!  I won't bother talking about guns, you seem pretty set in your druthers.

 

I shot for a lot of years without a gun cart.  Back in the days when we just used one handgun, and not every stage required  4 firearms, & 2 gun stages were not uncommon.  If you're the least bit "handy w/tools", a totally adequate gun cart can be built from a used baby stroller or golf bag cart... All that's really needed is a way to hold the long guns, a box for ammo and a couple of empty brass bags.  (For, yes, you will want to reload and saving brass from the beginning is a great way to build up an inventory). 

 

I used to think that it was best if you started reloading on a single stage to learn and master the process, in a logical step-by-step manner.  Maybe because that's what I did, but no longer feel it's a must.  I didn't buy my first progressive until I started reloading for 3 shooters in the family.  Many folks have started their reloading on a progressive with no ill results.  But, your "buy once, cry once" philosophy is sound.  Dillon makes good quality equipment and stands behind their product with excellent customer service after the sale.  So does Hornady and RCBS...  I happen to think that Dillon is the best "bang for your buck".  And I happen to know that I'm not alone in that opinion.

 

Your aunt & uncle are probably one of your best resources, and I'd rely on them to steer you straight.  If they reload, and are willing, tap them to mentor you thru the process of learning and acquiring your own setup.  

  • Like 2
Posted
43 minutes ago, Phantom, SASS #54973 said:

My recommendation...truly KNOW the person that you're getting info. from.

 

I know that this is the SASS forum, but you'd be surprised at how much bad info. can be found here.

 

Phantom

Phantom makes a good point.  A  friend who is knowledgeable about CAS firearms and gear, and will give you unbiased information is a plus.  You can find all sorts of advice about the game, but it's difficult to discern between good, not so good and bad advice if you're just starting out.  Good luck, be safe and have fun.

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Posted

i found that shooting thesame cartridge in my revolvers and rifle simplified reloading , you adjust OAL to run well in the rifle - they will work in your revolvers , and sticking with the same powder in the revolver/rifle cartridges and the shotshells eeps things simpler as well , 

  • Like 2
Posted

IMHO, the guns to "buy once, cry once" are -  Rifle: Uberti 1873 - Revolvers: Ruger Vaquero's or Bisley's - Shotgun: CZ Sharptail or a non-worn out SKB or Browning BSS. All with action work and modifications. 

 

'Buy Once, Cry Once Equipment".

Holsters: Mernickle HP1 Starter kit which includes everything you'll need.

Cart: Rugged Gear - easy to push around. Or a quality wood cart.

Reloading: Dillon Precision Press or Hornady Lock-N-Load Progressive

Costume: Jeans, button up long sleeve shirt and SASS approved boots. You'll want a hat with a brim to keep the hot brass from the 1873 going down your shirt. Many here can testify to that. Build you costume after you spent a little time in the game and build your own persona. Minimal or maximum costuming is purely a personal choice.

 

Hope this helps.

  • Like 19
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Posted

Shotgun: I started with Stoeger coach guns and still keep them as backups.  Many are shot at major matches.

 

Hats: everything from inexpensive straw hats to pricey all-beaver felt hats work.  I now own as many hats as long guns.

 

Boots: You will spend much time on your feet.  Buy comfortable boots.  I wear boots with laces so there is room for my arch supports.

 

Carts: score a loaner cart from your home club.  As shooters leave the sport they often donate their cart.  We had four loaner carts at our state match this year and gave away two.  When you buy or build your cart go lightweight.  If it takes two men or a forklift to put it in your vehicle you will soon replace it.  Get large wheels and tires that cannot go flat.  Lots of places to hang things is useful as is a seat,

 

Reloading:  Essential to control ammo costs.  Skip reloading shotgun shells at first but acquire equipment to reload metallic cartridges soon.  Progressive presses are useful for the number of rounds we shoot.  However, a used single stage press from a gun show or an estate sale can get you started reloading and be handy for odd jobs in the future.  A local mentor can help you select equipment and reloading supplies.  I recommend smokeless powder as you start.  BTW, I reload my low recoil shotgun shells.  That is worthwhile after you get setup for metallic cartridges reloading.

  • Like 4
Posted

Welcome to the fun! I have little experience but have picked up a lot of lore.

 

See if your local groups will let you shoot some stages with their guns. Strongly recommend trying before buying.

 

I agree with your view to buy quality, buy once, cry once... At the same time, recognize some items will be starter items or you just want to mix it up. I now have three shotguns (and one needs attention), two rifles (the second just because), but still like my "budget" Uberti 1873 revolvers.

 

A hat to catch brass may be optional in the rules but I collect shells on top of mine often enough to consider it mandatory..

  • Like 2
Posted
1 hour ago, Long Hunter SASS #20389L said:

IMHO, the guns to "buy once, cry once" are -  Rifle: Uberti 1873 - Revolvers: Ruger Vaquero's or Bisley's - Shotgun: CZ Sharptail or a non-worn out SKB or Browning BSS. All with action work and modifications. 

 

'Buy Once, Cry Once Equipment".

Holsters: Mernickle HP1 Starter kit which includes everything you'll need.

Cart: Rugged Gear - easy to push around. Or a quality wood cart.

Reloading: Dillon Precision Press or Hornady Lock-N-Load Progressive

Costume: Jeans, button up long sleeve shirt and SASS approved boots. You'll want a hat with a brim to keep the hot brass from the 1873 going down your shirt. Many here can testify to that. Build you costume after you spent a little time in the game and build your own persona. Minimal or maximum costuming is purely a personal choice.

 

Hope this helps.

Long Hunter is a Overall World Champ...all around Cowboy Gun Guy.

 

I knows his sh...stuff.

 

Phantom

  • Like 7
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Posted

Welcome aboard Katfish!  

 

The first thing that I would encourage you to do is seriously think about what you want out of the game.  The goal of getting to the top of the scoresheet will direct your equipment needs much differently than a goal of simply having fun with little to no concern of placement.  Top shooters typically spend more money on highly tuned equipment and shoot more rounds in practice.  That's not to say that the other shooters don't have a lot invested in their equipment.  They do but that equipment is typically closer to stock configuration than the speedsters.

 

The best advice that I can offer is to visit with the shooters that are on the same path that you wish to go.  They will be the best sources of advice.  Just be advised that not all of the advice that you receive will be good.  You'll need to sort through the chaff to find the wheat, so to speak.

 

Having been involved in CAS only a few years has provided quite the experience in getting the equipment and myself on the right path.  If desired, I'd be happy to share those through PMs.  Perhaps your goals and mine align.

  • Like 3
Posted

Dillon 550 for cartridge reloading. Used is fine. Simple press that can be all you’ll ever need. 

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Posted

So much good advice above. As to the size of your hands, I have large paws too. In addition to the Bisley grips, try the Army sized grips on a Colt or clone. They are longer than the standard [or Navy] grip found on the 1873 SAA clones.

  • Like 1
Posted
13 minutes ago, Sedalia Dave said:

The Baikal listed below will serve you well in this game and is being offered at a great price. 

 

 

I saw this. I have not given enough attention to understand the problem with my Stoeger and have temptation. But I'm not going to pass my problem on to someone else so the time is just not right. It does look like a good shottie and I really do like double trigger SxSs.

  • Like 1
Posted

All good advice. Try before you buy when it comes to guns.  If you are in contact with a club, tell them you are looking for gear.  Cowboys are always upgrading their stuff.  I'll bet some of the folks in that club would be willing to part with some lightly used gear for a good price.  When it comes to clothes, check out the resale shops in your area.  dress shirts are fine as is, but if you want the banded collar look, all you have to due is use a seam ripper and remove the collar, and sew it back up.  I've found tuxedo shirts that go well with the gambler look.  Lots of vest at these places.  I've even found some brand new never worn Wahmaker stuff.  Good luck and welcome toa great sport. 

  • Like 2
Posted
5 hours ago, Long Hunter SASS #20389L said:

IMHO, the guns to "buy once, cry once" are -  Rifle: Uberti 1873 - Revolvers: Ruger Vaquero's or Bisley's - Shotgun: CZ Sharptail or a non-worn out SKB or Browning BSS. All with action work and modifications. 

 

'Buy Once, Cry Once Equipment".

Holsters: Mernickle HP1 Starter kit which includes everything you'll need.

Cart: Rugged Gear - easy to push around. Or a quality wood cart.

Reloading: Dillon Precision Press or Hornady Lock-N-Load Progressive

Costume: Jeans, button up long sleeve shirt and SASS approved boots. You'll want a hat with a brim to keep the hot brass from the 1873 going down your shirt. Many here can testify to that. Build you costume after you spent a little time in the game and build your own persona. Minimal or maximum costuming is purely a personal choice.

 

Hope this helps.

The wording on SASS approved boots is or was misunderstood in handbook. Unless your shooting B western or Classic Cowboy you can wear just about any boots or shoes that aren’t sneakers. Rubber sole work boots/shoes are fine.

 

Go to some local matches and just hang out or help with posse duties.

 

All Longhunter suggestions are spot on. SKB’s are really expensive but if you handle and shoot one there’s a reason why.   
 

Be careful buying used equipment as it can be someone’s problems, but there are also some good used guns as well.
 

AO
 

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Posted

Look at the "hearts": emoji on these posts

VERY POWERFUL ADVICE.

 

i like dillon 750, I have owned Lee progressive and Dillon 650.

The 750, in the long run is best!!!  

 

Talk to MANY, listen to all.  Then post to this site and ask for additional advice,.

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Posted

Welcome.

There is information to be found online about SASS and CAS that can be useful. Check the SASS rulebook which will explain the various classes and requirements. One thing to consider is that Large Pistol Primers have been scarce and expensive which may or may not continue. .38/.357 is less expensive to shoot whether you reload or not.

I get the buy once, cry once philosophy, but depending on your situation, you can purchase some key equipment that will last a lifetime and save money on others you can replace later. If you are handy, you can make an inexpensive gun cart. Look online for designs and ideas. I made one with a baby jogger ($20) and some scrap wood. 

Hats- a decent straw is cheap and will work year round. 

Don't be in a rush to get everything, you'll have a more harmonious outcome.

  • Like 2
Posted

Thanks so much for all the advice and ideas. This thread has been a huge help. It’s clear y’all know what you’re talking about, and I’m really grateful for the time you’ve taken to share your experience. I know not all the advice I get will be the perfect fit for me, but even the stuff that doesn’t quite apply still helps me get a better picture of things.

The tips about carts were great. I like the idea of building one out of a baby stroller, seems like a fun little project. But let’s be honest, if my “handy” skills don’t cooperate, I’ll probably end up buying something to save myself the headache. I like to think I'm handy, but when it comes to carpentry, I definitely didn't inherit my great grandad's skills.  

The reloading advice has me leaning toward a Dillon press. I’d rather jump into something solid from the start than deal with upgrading later. Plus, my uncle and aunt are reloaders and have offered to help me figure things out, so I’ve got a solid support system there. This will be something that I really start looking into several months from now. At the start, I don't mind purchasing my ammo, this will also help me develop a good stockpile of brass. 

The point about figuring out my goals for CAS really stuck with me. Right now, I’m aiming for a balance of having fun and improving my skills. I don’t need to be at the top of the scoresheet, but I’d like my gear to support me as I get better and it doesn't matter what I tell myself, the fact remains that I am a competitive person and always have been..so goals right now? Have fun, learn the game and meet great people! Goal in 10 years? World Champ! 😂

The Uberti 1873, Ruger Vaqueros, and CZ Sharptail seem like great choices—I’m already eyeing those as solid “buy once, cry once” options.

For now, I’m keeping the costuming simple: jeans, a button-up shirt, and some boots. I’ll grab a good hat too—sounds like it’s not just for looks but for survival against flying brass! I figure I’ll build out my costume and persona as I spend more time in the game. I did spend a little time on ebay and purchased a few Wahmaker and Scully button downs and a nice vest that I really liked. 

Seriously, thanks again for all the input! If anyone wants to share more tips or early experiences, I’d love to hear them. This community is making it so much easier to dive into this sport.

 

 

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Posted

One note, you mentioned looking at the costume categories. Assuming your rifle is a .357, none of those guns are legal for Classic Cowboy and the rifle isn’t legal for B-Western.

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Posted
15 minutes ago, Boggus Deal #64218 said:

One note, you mentioned looking at the costume categories. Assuming your rifle is a .357, none of those guns are legal for Classic Cowboy and the rifle isn’t legal for B-Western.

I believe I'll either be in the Gunfighter or Wrangler category to start. 

Posted

To start a simple guncart can be made by adding a couple of Kolpin gun mounts to the handles of a 3 wheel baby stroller.  I would not recommend that you start trying to shoot gunfighter.  Start simple then work your way up to gunfighter.

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Posted
10 hours ago, Go West said:

Check the SASS rulebook which will explain the various classes and requirements. One thing to consider is that Large Pistol Primers have been scarce and expensive which may or may not continue.

We call them "Categories", not "Classes".

 

LP Primers are not terribly hard to get.

 

Phantom

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Posted
1 hour ago, Go West said:

I balk at primers costing $100 and up. 

The meaning of CATEGORY is any of several fundamental and distinct classes to which.......
But let's not quibble.

Guess yer right...just never seen "Classes" used to define our...categories. Don't think the word "Classes" is used in any of the Hanbooks.

 

This is a new shooter that is entering this game/sport. I wanted to make sure that they don't start off using the wrong verbiage.

 

Current Dealer cost on Pistol Primers (non-match), is about $65/1000. Currently you can get Pistol Primers for under $100.

 

Phantom

  • Like 2
Posted (edited)
7 hours ago, KatfishKid said:

Thanks so much for all the advice and ideas. This thread has been a huge help. It’s clear y’all know what you’re talking about, and I’m really grateful for the time you’ve taken to share your experience. I know not all the advice I get will be the perfect fit for me, but even the stuff that doesn’t quite apply still helps me get a better picture of things.

The tips about carts were great. I like the idea of building one out of a baby stroller, seems like a fun little project. But let’s be honest, if my “handy” skills don’t cooperate, I’ll probably end up buying something to save myself the headache. I like to think I'm handy, but when it comes to carpentry, I definitely didn't inherit my great grandad's skills.  

The reloading advice has me leaning toward a Dillon press. I’d rather jump into something solid from the start than deal with upgrading later. Plus, my uncle and aunt are reloaders and have offered to help me figure things out, so I’ve got a solid support system there. This will be something that I really start looking into several months from now. At the start, I don't mind purchasing my ammo, this will also help me develop a good stockpile of brass. 

The point about figuring out my goals for CAS really stuck with me. Right now, I’m aiming for a balance of having fun and improving my skills. I don’t need to be at the top of the scoresheet, but I’d like my gear to support me as I get better and it doesn't matter what I tell myself, the fact remains that I am a competitive person and always have been..so goals right now? Have fun, learn the game and meet great people! Goal in 10 years? World Champ! 😂

The Uberti 1873, Ruger Vaqueros, and CZ Sharptail seem like great choices—I’m already eyeing those as solid “buy once, cry once” options.

For now, I’m keeping the costuming simple: jeans, a button-up shirt, and some boots. I’ll grab a good hat too—sounds like it’s not just for looks but for survival against flying brass! I figure I’ll build out my costume and persona as I spend more time in the game. I did spend a little time on ebay and purchased a few Wahmaker and Scully button downs and a nice vest that I really liked. 

Seriously, thanks again for all the input! If anyone wants to share more tips or early experiences, I’d love to hear them. This community is making it so much easier to dive into this sport.

 

 

The SASS Wire Classifieds can provide some good deals if you keep a watch on them. But good items go pretty fast so you will need to check it out every couple of hours. There is a good deal on a Mec 9000 shotgun reloader there right now. He is at $450 for a $900 reloader. Need to find someone going to EOT and they can pick it up for you and bring it back home and save on the shipping. For the CZ if you are going new then Ken Griner from Griner Gun Works has them already modified. I have two of them and they are great shotguns. He is on the merchants page.

 

@John Barleycorn, SASS #76982 is also a guy to check with since he does a lot of buying and selling here on the Wire. He might be able to set you up with some NMV revolvers for a good price.

 

We have a couple of shooters here in Texas that don't have carts but carry saddlebags to keep their ammo in and then just carry their long guns from stage to stage so it can be done but it is a pain in the neck to me so a cart is a good purchase but as stated a lot of clubs have loaners until you do get your own. 

 

Buying ammo for revolvers and rifles can be done through @Scarlett. She provides cowboys loads to those needing them.

 

Competition is always good but just starting out you can always compete against yourself. I started in 2018 and was shooting stages in the 65 second range. I competed with myself at every match and tried to beat my previous scores and reduce my stage times. I also had some good mentors that were always giving me good tips on how to improve my time. Now I shoot 25 second stages. Still not as fast as the top guns but I am happy with my progress and I continue to shoot against myself. I have fun and enjoy every match. Keep in mind we are not shooting for money so keep it friendly and just enjoy your time. 

 

Read all you can on here since there is a lot of advice, some good some not so good, so you will have to weed through it to find that which helps you.

 

TM

Edited by Texas Maverick
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Posted (edited)

You won’t go wrong with a Uberti Win 73 & Ruger Bisleys. Shotgun wise most consider the SKB the best. But I see a lot of Sharptails. A few BSS, Baksils are good but getting hard to find. Stir gets available and decent but not overly great. Any shotgun is going to need tuning by a knowledgeable COWBOY gunsmith. 
 

Dont scrimp on leather. A good working rig is essential. Get one from a reputable cowboy shooter. There are many. My favorite is J-M Leather, but there are lots of good ones out there. 
 

cart wise I like the Range Tactical. I’ve had rugged gear carts. They are not as durable. I think only way you could break a range tactical cart is to run it over with your truck!

 

above all, be very wary of great deals from strangers. If the deal sounds too good to be true it probably is! Even here on the sass wire the scammers will trick you into thinking they are legit. FTF is always best, but if you have a question ask on here for friends if the seller to vouch for him. 
 

Have fun. Greatest bunch of guys/gals in the world. 

Edited by Hoss
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Posted

I just noticed that you are from Evansville, IN.  In case you aren't already aware, you're very close to one of the best clubs around.  Check out their webpage at https://westsidesportsmens.com/facilities/cowboy-town/.  All of the members of that club that I have met have been very welcoming so please get in touch with them and attend one of their shoots.  You will not regret it and you'll learn a ton.  I would also highly advise attending (shooting or watching) their Spring Roundup next year.  It's a great match and you'll see some very competitive shooters.

 

You're also very close to one of the best leathermakers in the business.  Persimmon Dan has built rigs for many of the shooters that I've had the pleasure of sharing a range with.  He built an outstanding rig for me last summer and the price was more than fair.  He also does quite a bit of gun work and is more than happy to share his knowledge.  Put contacting him on your to-do list.

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