Determination, Texas
Nestled in the scenic Texas Hill Country, just 10 minutes west of Blanco, lies the small “old-west” town of Determination, Texas. Most days, it’s a quiet ghost town, but on the third Saturday of every month, it roars back to life with five action-packed stages of Cowboy Action Shooting. This family-friendly competition blends historical authenticity, marksmanship, and entertainment, making it an exciting experience for all involved.
The Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) and the Thrill of Cowboy Action Shooting
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the boots of a cowboy, wielding classic firearms of the Old West, and competing in fast-paced shooting events, then Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) might be for you. This unique shooting sport blends history, marksmanship, and a whole lot of fun into one thrilling experience. At the heart of this community is the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS), the governing body that keeps the spirit of the Wild West alive.
What is Cowboy Action Shooting?
Cowboy Action Shooting is a competitive shooting discipline where participants—also known as “cowboys” and “cowgirls”—engage in multi-gun matches using period-correct firearms, including single-action revolvers, lever-action rifles, and side-by-side shotguns or pump-action shotguns (pre-1899 designs). Shooters dress in 19th-century attire, adopt an alias fitting the Old West theme, and compete in scenarios that mimic frontier-era gunfights.
The matches are designed to test both speed and accuracy, with competitors moving through stages that require rapid target transitions, shooting from behind cover, and reloading under pressure. It’s an adrenaline-pumping sport that rewards skill, precision, and style.
The Role of the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS)
Founded in 1987, SASS is the primary organization that promotes and regulates Cowboy Action Shooting. With thousands of members worldwide, SASS provides a standardized set of rules, sanctions official matches, and fosters a welcoming, family-friendly community.
SASS ensures that Cowboy Action Shooting stays true to its historical roots by enforcing firearm requirements, dress codes, and stage designs that reflect the Old West. The organization also hosts End of Trail, the world championship of Cowboy Action Shooting, where top competitors showcase their skills in an unforgettable showdown.
Why Try Cowboy Action Shooting?
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or new to shooting sports, CAS offers something for everyone:
- Immersive Experience: Dressing the part and adopting a cowboy alias makes every match feel like stepping into a Western movie.
- Multi-Gun Challenge: Mastering revolvers, rifles, and shotguns in rapid succession hones your shooting skills across different platforms.
- Community & Camaraderie: SASS members are known for their welcoming spirit, making CAS a great way to meet like-minded enthusiasts who share a passion for firearms and history.
- Family-Friendly Sport: Many clubs encourage participation from all ages, offering a safe and enjoyable way for families to bond over shooting sports.
Getting Started in Cowboy Action Shooting
If you’re interested in giving CAS a try, the best way to start is by finding a local SASS-affiliated club. Many clubs offer introductory events where you can learn the basics, handle firearms under supervision, and experience a match firsthand. You don’t need to have all the period-correct gear right away—most clubs have members willing to lend equipment to newcomers.
Cowboy Action Shooting is more than just a sport—it’s a way to keep the spirit of the Old West alive while sharpening your marksmanship skills. So dust off your boots, grab your six-shooter, and join the adventure!
Final Thoughts
At Double Time Firearms, we appreciate shooting disciplines that challenge skills while celebrating history. Whether you’re into CAS for competition or just looking to expand your shooting experience, we’re here to help you find the right tools to succeed. Have you tried Cowboy Action Shooting? Let us know in the comments below!
For fun, here’s a link to a quick video of the Author and Owner of Double Time Firearms working through one of the six stages from last weekend: Watch Here.
