What is 3-Gun?

If you’ve ever watched a shooter blaze through a stage, sprinting between positions while swapping between rifle, pistol, and shotgun—you’ve seen 3-Gun in action. It’s fast, dynamic, and downright addicting once you try it.

3 Gun competition is a practical shooting sport that challenges competitors to engage targets with all three firearm platforms: rifle, shotgun, and pistol. Each stage is a problem to solve under time pressure, where speed, accuracy, and gear handling all come into play. You’ll shoot steel, paper, clay, and sometimes even moving targets.

No two stages are the same. One might test your rifle skills on targets out to 300 yards or more. Another might run you through a maze of walls with a pistol. And some stages throw everything at you at once. It’s controlled chaos—in the best way.

Scoring usually combines speed and accuracy. Most 3-Gun matches use a “time plus penalties” system, but some follow scoring methods like Comstock or Virginia Count depending on the host club. The goal is simple: be fast and make your hits count.

Despite what social media might suggest, 3-Gun isn’t just for pros with tricked-out race guns. Most shooters start with what they already have and upgrade over time. If you’ve got a reliable rifle, a working shotgun, and a serviceable pistol—you’re more than ready to jump in.

This guide is here to help you understand the basics, find your first match, and show up confident. Because the truth is: you already belong here. Let’s get into it.

Finding Your First Match

You’ve got the itch—now it’s time to scratch it. The good news is, 3-Gun matches are happening all over the country. The trick is knowing where to look and how to get started.

Start Local

Your first step should be checking in with nearby gun ranges and shooting clubs. Not all of them host 3-Gun, but many offer similar disciplines like USPSA or IDPA, which share a lot of crossover. Don’t be afraid to call, email, or just walk in and ask. Word of mouth is still gold in this sport.

Look for clubs that advertise any of the following:

Even if it’s not “pure” 3-Gun, these matches help you build foundational skills and connect with the right people.

Use Online Match Calendars

These tools will help you find matches near you:

Not Ready to Compete Yet? Go Watch

If you’re hesitant to jump in, spectating is a smart move. Most clubs welcome visitors, and it’s one of the best ways to learn the rhythm of a match. You’ll see how squads move through stages, what kind of gear people run, and how scoring and resets work.

Just bring eye and ear protection, wear comfortable clothes, and introduce yourself to the match director or a squad member. Most shooters will be glad you stopped by and happy to talk shop.

Talk to the Regulars

Once you find a match that’s within range, reach out. Message the match director or post in the local Facebook group. Let them know you’re new. Odds are, someone will offer to squad up and walk you through the day.

Plenty of clubs offer a short “new shooter brief” before the match starts, and many have veteran shooters who will pair up with newcomers to help with gear, rules, and stage planning.

Don’t Wait to Be “Ready”

This one’s important. You don’t need fancy gear or months of practice to shoot your first match. Bring what you have. Be safe. Ask questions. And go shoot.

You’ll learn more in one match than in six months of YouTube videos and gear forums. Just show up—you won’t regret it.

Safety and Match Etiquette

If there’s one thing every 3-Gunner agrees on, it’s this: nobody cares how fast or accurate you are if you’re not safe. Safety comes first, always. If you follow the rules and treat others with respect, you’ll be welcomed into the sport with open arms.

Cold Ranges and Safe Tables

Most matches operate on a cold range policy:

Use safe tables to unbag your guns, adjust optics, or dry fire. If you’re handling ammo, stay away from these areas. Never handle a firearm in a parking lot or near your vehicle unless it’s a designated safe area.

Muzzle Discipline and the 180° Rule

Imagine a semicircle extending from your body (perpendicular to the back berm), your muzzle must stay inside that arc. Breaking the 180° line, sweeping someone (including yourself), or pointing your gun up-range will get you disqualified.

This isn’t meant to scare you. It’s how we keep the sport safe and enjoyable for everyone. Think of it as trust-building. Everyone needs to trust that the people around them are safe and disciplined.

Finger Off the Trigger

Your trigger finger should only be inside the guard when you’re actively shooting. Not while moving, reloading, or transitioning between positions.

Range Officers will call out:

Listen and respond immediately—your match (and everyone’s safety) depends on it.

Common Range Commands

These are the basics you’ll hear before and after your run:

Practice these commands during dry fire at home. It’ll help you feel prepared and less nervous on match day.

Resetting Targets

Matches don’t run themselves. After every shooter, the squad resets the stage:

Jump in and help. You don’t need to sprint, but standing around while others work won’t earn you many friends. All supplies required for reset are provided by the match, but you’re more than welcome to bring paster guns and mojo sticks for picking up hulls if you’ve got them.

Be a Good Squadmate

Most folks in this sport are more than happy to help newcomers. They’ll remember your effort—and your attitude.

Lead Exposure Is Real

Steel targets and spent brass create fine lead dust. Add heat and wind, and it ends up on your skin, clothes, and gear.

Here’s how to stay safe:

This is a long-term health issue, so treat it seriously from day one.

If You Get DQ’d, It’s Not the End

Disqualifications happen. Sometimes to new shooters. Sometimes to veterans. If it happens to you, own it, learn from it, and stick around to help reset stages. You’ll gain respect for handling it the right way.

Gear: What You Need (and Don’t) for Your First Match

Let’s get one thing straight—you don’t need a six-thousand-dollar race rig to shoot your first 3-Gun match. What you do need is gear that works, fits the rules of your division, and helps you finish stages safely and confidently. That’s it.

The truth is, your first match is where you learn what gear works for you. Not the gear forums. Not YouTube. The match.

The Big Three: Rifle, Shotgun, Pistol

Rifle

Shotgun

Pistol

Belt Setup

You don’t need a full competition rig on day one. A stiff tactical belt or duty belt works fine.

Don’t stress about having the “perfect” belt. Plenty of new shooters run minimalist setups just fine.

Eye and Ear Protection

Range Bag Essentials

Don’t Waste Your Money Yet

Avoid these traps before your first match:

Ask around and borrow what you can. Most shooters are happy to loan gear to help a new face get started.

Final Word: Run What You’ve Got

If your guns run, and you can carry your mags and ammo safely—you’re good to go. Don’t wait until your setup is “perfect.” Your first match will show you what actually matters.

Choosing a Division & Understanding the Rules

If you’ve been browsing match pages or watching YouTube videos, you’ve probably heard shooters talk about divisions like Tac Ops, Open, or Heavy. Don’t let the names scare you off. Divisions just sort competitors based on their gear, so it’s a fair playing field.

You don’t need to memorize every rulebook to get started. Just figure out where your current setup fits—and run it.

Common Divisions

Most matches follow one of two systems: 3-Gun Nation style or USPSA Multigun rules. Local outlaw matches may tweak things, but the general breakdown stays the same.

Tactical Optics (Tac Ops)

Best for: Shooters running an AR with LPVO, iron-sight pistol, and traditional shotgun.

Modified

Why it’s popular: Lets you run your red dot pistol and tricked-out rifle while keeping the shotgun traditional. This is becoming the “new normal” at many matches.

Open

Best for: Shooters who already own high-end gear or want no restrictions.

Limited / Factory

Best for: Shooters who want a basic, level field or are running mil-style setups.

Heavy Division (aka He-Man or Major)

Best for: Shooters who want a challenge and already own the gear.

How to Pick Your Division

You’re not stuck in a division forever. You can switch as your gear changes or if you want to try something new.

Know the Rules (But Don’t Panic)

Most matches will link to their ruleset on Practiscore or the club website. Skim through it. Look for these basics:

If you’re unsure about anything, ask at the shooter’s meeting. Nobody expects you to know it all out of the gate.

Final Tip: Avoid Analysis Paralysis

Your first match isn’t about winning—it’s about showing up, being safe, and learning. Don’t get stuck trying to find the “perfect” division. Pick one, prep your gear, and go shoot.

Match Day: What to Expect & How to Prepare

Showing up to your first 3-Gun match can feel like walking into someone else’s family reunion—gear everywhere, inside jokes flying, and a rhythm you haven’t learned yet. But once you’ve been through it once, it clicks fast.

The Night Before

Lay your gear out the night before like you’re heading to the airport. Organized shooters are calm shooters.

Arriving at the Match

Get there early—at least 30–45 minutes before registration. Even better? Show up earlier and help set up.

Local matches are usually built the morning of the event. That means volunteers haul steel, staple targets, and get the stages ready. Even if you’re not sure what to do, just ask. Carrying stuff and pitching in makes a great first impression.

Once you arrive:

The Shooter’s Meeting

This is where the match director covers safety rules, match flow, and anything unique about the range. Even veteran shooters pay attention here—you should too.

Expect to hear:

How the Match Flows

Expect to shoot 4–6 stages over half a day. Larger matches may run longer depending on turnout.

Resetting Matters

Bring gloves—especially for resetting steel. Resetting targets is part of the sport and a key way to contribute. Don’t be the one just watching. Tape targets, reset steel, help with props. You’ll earn respect fast.

Focus for First-Time Shooters

Your goals on match day are simple:

Everyone messes something up their first match. That’s normal. Laugh it off, reset, and learn from it.

Between Stages

Use your downtime wisely:

Tear Down Is Part of the Game

When the final stage is shot, don’t vanish. Stick around to help tear down stages and load gear into trailers. Even just stacking targets or dragging steel goes a long way.

If you’re unsure what to do, ask. Match directors will gladly point you to a job that needs doing.

What About Major Matches?

You might hear folks talking about “majors”—those big, multi-day matches with prize tables and pro shooters. They’re great, but not where you start.

Major matches usually have:

Shoot a few local matches first. Build your confidence. Then consider stepping up to a major.

Quick Match Day Checklist

Most important? Be a good squadmate. Help out. Ask questions. Stay safe. That’s what keeps this sport strong.

Building Your Loadout: Gear Priorities for First-Time Shooters

Once you’ve shot a match or two, you’ll start to see where your setup shines—and where it needs work. The goal here is to help you build out your gear in a way that makes sense, without wasting money on stuff that looks cool but doesn’t help you shoot better.

Your Three Guns: What Matters Most

Rifle

Shotgun

Pistol

Belt and Loadout Setup

You’ll eventually want a proper inner/outer belt setup with secure pouches and shotgun caddies—but don’t rush it. Start with what works and upgrade with experience.

Shotgun Loading Options

Loading StyleGear You’ll Need
Weak-hand quad load1–2 caddies (Invictus, EZ8, Carbon Arms, etc.)
Strong-hand loadSame caddies, mounted differently
Pocket loadsWill work for your first match, but not ideal long term

Not sure what style works for you? Ask someone at the match to demo their setup. Most shooters are happy to let you test-drive their gear during downtime.

Other Essentials

Nice-to-Haves (Not Mandatory… Yet)

What You Can Skip for Now

Smart Growth Over Time

After each match, take note of what held you back—then fix that one thing. Maybe your shotgun ran great, but your shell loads were slow. Maybe your belt sagged under weight. Maybe your optic wasn’t bright enough in direct sun.

Fix one issue at a time. Validate it in dry fire. Confirm it at your next match.

That’s how you build a loadout that works—through real reps, not online wishlists.

Understanding Scoring: How Your Match is Judged

If you’re new to 3-Gun, scoring can sound like a confusing mix of math and penalties. You’ll hear terms like Comstock, Virginia Count, or Time Plus—but don’t worry. Most matches use one system, and it’s pretty simple once you see it in action.

The Most Common: Time Plus Scoring

Most local and national 3-Gun matches in the U.S. use Time Plus scoring. Here’s how it works:

Example: You shoot a stage in 52.41 seconds. You missed a steel target (+5 seconds) and forgot a clay pigeon (+10 seconds).

Your final score: 52.41 + 5 + 10 = 67.41 seconds

The lowest final time wins the stage. That’s it.

Common Penalties (and What They Cost)

InfractionPenalty
Missed paper target+5 seconds
Missed steel target+5 seconds
Missed clay+10 seconds
Failure to engage a target+10 seconds
Foot fault or procedural+5 to +10 seconds
Unsafe gun handlingDisqualification (DQ)

Pro Tip: You don’t need to be perfect, but hitting your targets cleanly will save more time than any fancy reload trick ever will.

What Counts as a “Hit”?

Most matches don’t care if you hit the A-zone or the C-zone—as long as the target is neutralized, you’re good.

Round Count and Extra Shots

In 3-Gun, there’s usually no limit on how many shots you can take. If you miss, just shoot again. But be warned:

So while you can take more shots, the goal is to make each one count.

Where You’ll See Your Score

Most matches use Practiscore for scoring. After your run, the RO enters your time and any penalties. You’ll be handed the tablet to review before you hit “approve.”

Always double-check:

Once submitted, it’s usually locked in. For big matches, there’s an arbitration window later—but don’t count on getting something changed after the fact.

Clean Runs Beat Fast Runs

Don’t chase speed at the cost of penalties. A fast time with a bunch of misses will almost always score worse than a smooth, deliberate run with no penalties.

Shoot clean first. Speed will come later.

Hit Factor, Comstock, and Virginia Count (Quick Note)

Some matches or individual stages use other scoring systems like Comstock or Virginia Count. These are more common in USPSA-style events. In those systems, scoring is based on points per second (hit factor), and the number of rounds you’re allowed to shoot may be limited.

Unless you’re shooting USPSA Multigun or a special stage at a major match, you’ll rarely deal with these as a beginner. Just ask your RO if you’re unsure what counts.

Final Takeaway

The timer and the targets don’t lie. Hit your targets, avoid penalties, and be deliberate. That’s how you move up the leaderboard.

And if you’re helping others figure out scoring? Even better. That’s how this community grows.

Drills and Practice Tips: Getting Better Between Matches

You don’t need to shoot 1,000 rounds a week to get better at 3-Gun. In fact, some of the best shooters do more dry fire than live fire. The key is intentional practice—working on the right things with the time and space you have.

Dry Fire: Your Secret Weapon

Dry fire is free, safe, and incredibly effective. It’s how you build smooth gun handling, fast transitions, and rock-solid fundamentals. All you need is a safe space, a cleared firearm, and a little structure.

What to Work On:

Useful Tools:

Start small: Ten minutes, three times a week, will pay off fast if you’re consistent.

Live Fire: Make It Count

Ammo isn’t cheap, so don’t waste range time. Go in with a plan. Focus on drills that reinforce your dry fire work and expose weaknesses.

Go-To Drills:

End with something fun—like shooting steel or running a mini-stage. You’ll walk away with a win and want to train again.

Mental Reps and Visualization

You don’t need a trigger to practice. Watch match footage, walk imaginary stages in your garage, or visualize yourself running through a course. Ask yourself:

The more you rehearse in your head, the smoother you’ll shoot under pressure.

Sample Weekly Practice Plan

DayActivityTime
MondayDry fire (pistol draw + reloads)15 min
TuesdayDry fire (transitions + movement)20 min
WednesdayRest or match video review–
ThursdayDry fire (shotgun loading + staging)20 min
FridayLive fire range session1–2 hours
SaturdayMatch day or fun shootingHalf day
SundayRecovery, gear maintenance–

Adjust based on your schedule. The point is consistency—not perfection.

Track Progress Over Time

Use a notebook or app to log:

This helps you target your next practice session instead of just going through the motions.

Final Tip: Don’t Train in a Vacuum

Practice is how you improve—but matches are how you test. Use each match as feedback. What went well? What needs work? Bring that back into your training loop.

That’s how top shooters train. And it’s how you’ll keep leveling up.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Everyone starts somewhere—and that usually includes a few hiccups. The good news? Most early mistakes in 3-Gun are completely avoidable. Knowing what to expect can save you frustration, wasted money, and even a disqualification.

Mistake #1: Not Reading the Match Info

Why it happens: You skim the sign-up page and miss the details.

The fix: Read the entire match description. Look for round counts, gear restrictions, and rules. If there’s a matchbook—download it. Knowing what to bring (and what not to bring) matters.

Mistake #2: Showing Up Late

Why it happens: You assume “on time” is good enough.

The fix: Show up 45–60 minutes early. This gives you time to gear up, walk stages, and settle in. Bonus points if you help with setup—you’ll make friends fast.

Mistake #3: Overpacking or Underdressing

Why it happens: You either bring everything or forget the basics.

The fix: Use a checklist. Bring what you need—not your entire safe. And dress for the weather. This is an outdoor sport. Bring layers, sunscreen, and a chair if it’s going to be a long day.

Mistake #4: Copying Someone Else’s Stage Plan

Why it happens: You see a good shooter and assume their plan is the best.

The fix: Walk the stage and build a plan that works for you. Visualize where your reloads go, how you’ll transition between positions, and what you’re most confident in. Steal ideas, but don’t copy blindly.

Mistake #5: Going Too Fast Too Soon

Why it happens: The buzzer goes off and you rush everything.

The fix: Slow down. Shoot smooth and clean. Speed comes with reps. In the beginning, penalties hurt you way more than slow splits.

Mistake #6: Ignoring Lead Safety

Why it happens: Nobody talks about it enough.

The fix: Wear gloves when resetting steel. Don’t eat with dirty hands. Use de-lead wipes after every stage. Wash up when you get home—especially before touching your kids, pets, or the inside of your truck.

Mistake #7: Not Helping Reset or Tear Down

Why it happens: You don’t know it’s expected—or assume others have it covered.

The fix: If you’re not shooting or reloading—help reset. It’s just good squad etiquette. And stick around at the end to help tear down. Local matches run on volunteers. Be one of them.

Mistake #8: Skipping the Basics

Why it happens: You get distracted by gear and YouTube trick shots.

The fix: Drill the fundamentals: safe gun handling, clean reloads, and efficient transitions. Get solid at those, and everything else will come easier later.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Take a DQ Personally

Disqualifications happen. To new shooters. To veterans. One bad transition or safety slip is all it takes. If it happens to you, own it, stay and help reset, and come back stronger next time.

Final Thought

Every top shooter you’ve ever seen started where you are. They all made mistakes. What matters most is that you show up, stay safe, and keep learning. That’s how you grow in this sport—and in this community.

After the Match: What Comes Next?

You did it. Whether you nailed every stage or fumbled through all of them, finishing your first 3-Gun match is a milestone. You showed up. You ran three guns. You played the game. And now—it’s time to figure out what comes next.

Review Your Performance (Honestly)

This isn’t about beating yourself up. It’s about learning. Ask yourself:

If someone took video of your runs, watch them. You’ll spot things you didn’t notice in the moment—good and bad.

Make Small Adjustments

Don’t rush out to buy new gear just yet. Fix what slowed you down:

Change one thing at a time. Validate it in practice. Confirm it at your next match.

Write It Down

Grab a notebook or start a digital log. After each match, jot down:

That history will help you see progress over time and keep your training focused.

Stay Connected

If you met good folks at the match, follow up. Shoot them a message. Ask if they shoot other local matches or if they train somewhere during the week. The more plugged in you are, the easier it is to stay motivated and improve.

Pro Tip: A simple “Hey, when’s your next match?” goes a long way.

Plan Your Next Match

Don’t wait months. While it’s still fresh, sign up for another local match. Set one or two goals—like cleaner transitions or smoother reloads—and work on them between now and then.

The best way to improve? Reps. Dry fire, range sessions, and match experience.

You’re In Now

You’re not just a spectator anymore. You’re a competitor. Whether you do it for fun, improvement, or one day to chase a podium—3-Gun is your sport now.

Most of us started out fumbling gear, forgetting stage plans, and finishing near the bottom. What kept us going was the community, the adrenaline, and the desire to get just a little better each time.

Final Words

Your first match was the starting line—not the finish.

Keep showing up. Keep learning. Stay humble. Stay safe. And remember—everyone you admire in this sport once stood exactly where you are now.

Welcome to the game.

Your First Match Is Just the Beginning

If you’ve made it this far through the guide, you’re already ahead of the curve. Most people spend months (or years) thinking about getting into competitive shooting. You’re doing it. You’ve got the tools, the mindset, and the map.

3-Gun isn’t easy. That’s kind of the point. It challenges your planning, your gun handling, your ability to stay calm under pressure. But the reward? It’s huge.

You’ll meet some of the best people you’ve ever shared a range with. You’ll push yourself in ways you didn’t expect. And you’ll walk off stages knowing that you earned every hit, every reload, every second shaved from the clock.

We built this guide because we’ve all been there—standing around before our first match, unsure where to park, what to say, or how the scoring worked. You’re not alone in this. And now, you’re not starting from scratch either.

Whether your first step is dry firing in your garage, watching a match, or just signing up and diving in—you’re already on the path.

Stay consistent. Stay curious. Keep showing up. That’s how you get better.

Bonus Resources

One Last Thing…

If this guide helped you, pass it on. Share it with a buddy who’s thinking about jumping in. Print it out. Save the link. Post it in your local club’s Facebook group.

This sport grows when we help each other. You don’t have to be an expert to be part of the community—you just have to show up, be safe, and lend a hand.

We’ll see you on the range.

– The Action Gunner Team

Sign up for the Action Gunner newsletter

Newsletter Signup

ACTION GUNNER | ACTION MEDIA LLC

  • PO Box 359
  • Lindstrom, MN 55045
  • contact@actiongunner.com

TRAIN

COMPETE

Major Match Calendar
3 Gun Competition Guide

TOOLS

Power Factor Calculator
Hit Factor Calculator
Reloading Cost Calculator
Privacy Policy
Terms and Conditions
Affiliate Disclosure