The Spirit of the Game

Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) is a shooting sport in which contestants compete with firearms typical of those used in the Old West--single action revolvers, lever action rifles, and double barreled shotguns. The shooting competition is staged in a unique, Old West style.

The firearms are those typical of the American Frontier from about 1860 to just after the turn of the century. During a match, contestants shoot in several stages using 4 guns, 2 pistol, one rifle and one shotgun. while firing at reactive steel targets. Scoring is based on accuracy and speed.

Perhaps the most unique aspect of Cowboy Action Shooting is the requirement placed on authentic period dress. Each participant is required to adopt a shooting alias appropriate to a character or profession of the late 19th century, or a Hollywood western star, and develop a costume accordingly. Shooters are divided into categories and classes depending upon the type of firearms used and the style in which they shoot.

Cowboy Action Shooting is not a fast draw style of competiton. Shooters' will find movement and plenty of action as they use all three styles of firearms during engagement. CAS is designed for all levels of shooters. Targets are generous in size and placed at a proximity such that the difficulty or challenge competitors face is primarily the speed they engage a course of fire. However, one learns soon enough that no target is too big or too close that you can't miss it.

The appeal of CAS lies in the fact that it is a family oriented, recreational activity that is great fun. Shooters can compete and enjoy the sport at any skill level. This promotes the values often referred to as the spirit of the game, and is perhaps best shown by the friends made while sharing a mutual appreciation of what is the legend of America's most colorful and exciting period, the Old West.

Cowboy Action Shooting is the fastest growing shooting sport in the country. The Bigfork Buscaderos host a CAS match monthly. You don't have to be good to attend these matches, just safe. Everyone is welcome from novice to gunslinger.

Basically it is a bunch of folks who dress up in cowboy era clothing and play cowboys and Indians! Yes, it is allot of fun!. So come on down and check out the fun for yourself!