3-Gun Competition: Everything You Need to Know

Ready to push your shooting skills to new heights? Look no further than the adrenaline-pumping world of 3-gun competition. This dynamic sport challenges shooters to master not one, but three firearms: rifle, pistol, and shotgun. It’s no wonder 3-gun is so popular, captivating more competitors every year.

But what exactly goes down at a 3-gun match? And how can you jump into the action yourself? Strap in as we break down the nuts and bolts of this incredible sport. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, we’ll cover everything here to get you up to speed.

What is a 3-Gun Competition?

A 3-gun competition is a fast-paced shooting sport. It tests your skills with three guns: a rifle, pistol, and shotgun. You’ll move through courses of fire, or stages, hitting targets quickly and accurately.

Shooters face obstacles like walls, barrels and fault lines that dictate where they can shoot from. They aim at paper silhouettes and steel targets at different distances. The goal is to hit targets fast, demonstrating proficiency with each gun.

Competitors must load and fire all three guns quickly. This requires adapting fast to each weapon. It’s also a test of your ability to transition between guns smoothly and safely.

3-gun competitions are a thrill ride, plain and simple. These action-packed matches have carved out a dedicated following across more than ten countries. It’s not just about shooting – it’s a true test of skill, speed, and adaptability. When you step onto that course, you’re putting yourself up against some of the best in the game.

The community around these events is also something special. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes in, you’ll find a supportive bunch of folks. They share your passion for pushing the limits. If you haven’t given it a shot yet, you’re missing out on one heck of an experience!

The Firearms of 3-Gun

Rifles

Most competitors in 3-gun use AR-15 platform rifles chambered in .223/5.56. You don’t need a high-end race gun to get started; even a basic AR-15 with a red dot sight will suffice. However, as you improve, you might want to consider upgrading to a rifle with a magnified optic, such as a Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24, which is a solid budget-friendly option for beginners. For those looking for top-tier performance, a Vortex Razor HD 1-10x is a popular choice among seasoned competitors. The key is to bring the rifle you have, attend a few matches, and learn what gear upgrades will benefit your shooting style the most.

You’ll typically see fast short-range paper target engagements (think 10-40 yards) and reactive steel targets out to 600 yards depending on the host range capabilities.

Shotguns

A reliable shotgun is essential for 3-gun. Most competitors use a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun with an extended magazine tube for extra shell capacity. Models like the Benelli M2 or Stoeger M3000 are popular due to their performance and ease of modification. You don’t need a high-end shotgun to start; many competitors begin with basic hunting shotguns. As you progress, investing in an extended magazine tube and aftermarket choke tubes will help with reload efficiency and accuracy.

Matches across the country involve both falling steel targets and clay pigeons for shotguns.

Pistols

The pistol component of 3-gun generally revolves around full-size 9mm handguns like the Glock 34 or Smith & Wesson M&P series. These models are widely used because of their reliability, magazine capacity, and availability of aftermarket parts. A few simple modifications like an upgraded trigger or a magwell for quicker reloads can help improve your performance, but as with the other firearms, bringing what you have and learning on the range is the best way to start.

More experienced or committed competitors often choose 2011-based (Double stack 1911) pistol systems. Be warned though, these quickly exceed $2,500 when you start shopping around for them.

The Divisions of 3-Gun Competition

3-gun competitions offer several divisions to suit different shooter preferences and equipment choices. While specific rules may vary between organizations and individual matches, here’s an overview of common divisions:

Open Division

This one’s pretty much exactly as implied, you can run just about whatever you want provided it comes with you through the stage. Rifles are opened up for bipods, bags, tripods, offset optics – you name it. Pistols with dots and extended magazines, and probably most impactful – box fed magazine shotguns to keep time-robbing-reloads out of the mix.

• Allows the most customization and accessories
• Handguns can have electronic sights, optical sights, and extended magazines
• Rifles can have multiple optics and supporting devices like bipods
• Shotguns may use speed loading devices and detachable box magazines
• Often considered the most competitive division due to equipment advantages

Limited Division

The Limited division has the lightest equipment rules, and tends to be as close to “Factory” as possible, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s easier. Rifles can have iron sights or a single non-magnified optic. Shotguns must be tube fed and usually restricted to an 8+1 round limit, no speed-loaders. Pistols typically must be factory, without porting or optics.

• Rifles limited to one non-magnified optic
• Often has magazine capacity restrictions

Tactical Optics Division (aka Tac-Ops)

Prior to Modified being introduced, the Tac Ops division was easily the most popular and competitive. It’s similar to the Limited division but allows rifles with magnified optics and eases up on the magazine restrictions.

• Handguns limited to iron sights
• Shotguns limited to tubular magazines and iron sights
• Rifles allowed one magnified optic
• Typically one of the most popular divisions

Modified Division

A newer division combining elements of Tactical and Open, and quickly becoming the division of choice. It’s more similar to the Tactical Optics division but allows for Red Dot Sights on pistol and shotgun, as well as easing restrictions on mag capacity and barrel porting or comps.

• Rifles follow Tactical rules but allow one bipod (Texas 3-Gun Rules)
• Pistols can have a slide-mounted optical sight.
• Shotguns can have a single non-magnified optical sight and compensators, with a 12-round capacity limit

Heavy Metal Division

Dare I say – a dying breed. In the true Heavy Metal division, rifles must be chambered in .308 Winchester or larger and have iron sights. Shotguns are 12-gauge pump-actions with iron sights and no porting. Handguns must be .45 ACP or larger, with no optics or porting and restricted to 10 rounds in the magazine. There are several matches running bastardized versions of this division to encourage more participation, allowing optics on rifles, down to 9mm for handgun and dropping the pump requirement for shotgun.

• Requires larger calibers: .45 ACP for handguns, .308 Winchester for rifles
• Shotguns must be 12-gauge, often pump-action only
• Equipment rules vary between organizations, but generally less restrictive to encourage participation

2×4 Open Division

Less recognized by most matches, 2×4 is Open Division with the opportunity to sub in a PCC or Pistol Caliber Carbine when it makes sense.

• Allows competitors to choose between rifle, pistol, shotgun, or pistol caliber carbine (PCC) on stages
• Provides flexibility in firearm choice

It’s important to note that division names and specific rules can vary between organizations and matches. For example, while no longer an active organization, the United Multi-Gun League (UML) introduced divisions like “Practical” and “Competition,” that are still in use at matches today. USPSA and other organizations use different terminology or have slight variations in rules as well as requirements for Power Factor with ammunition.

Some matches like Hard as Hell Multigun offer specialized divisions or categories, such as “Trooper” divisions requiring competitors to carry all their gear throughout the match, or divisions specifically for law enforcement and military personnel. If you really wanted to play hard, they offered an “Armored” classification that also required a plate carrier setup.

Before competing, always check the specific rules for the match or organization you’re participating in, as equipment requirements and divisions can change over time or vary between events.

3-Gun Competition Equipment

In 3-gun competitions, the right equipment is crucial not only for performance but also for safety and efficiency. While the sport revolves around using three types of firearms—a rifle, pistol, and shotgun—competitors need a range of additional gear to handle the fast-paced and demanding nature of the stages. From holsters and magazine pouches to specialized optics, the equipment you choose can make a significant difference in your success on the course.

Essential Gear for 3-Gun

1. Holsters
One of the most critical pieces of gear in 3-gun is the holster for your pistol. It’s not just about quick access but also safety, as a dropped pistol results in an instant disqualification. Many competitors opt for holsters with retention mechanisms to ensure the gun stays secure during the high-movement stages of the match. Options like the Blade-Tech or Comp-Tac holsters are popular for their balance of security and speed. However, don’t overlook comfort; the sport requires lots of running, jumping, and quick movements, so your holster needs to be stable and reliable without slowing you down.

2. Magazine Pouches and Shotgun Caddies
Quick reloads are essential in 3-gun, and having well-placed magazine pouches can give you a real edge. Kydex competition pouches are favored for their ease of use and durability. For rifle and pistol magazines, multiple pouches on your belt ensure that you’re never short of ammo during a stage.

Shotgun reloading is a skill in itself, and you’ll need a good system to carry shells. Shotgun caddies, like those from Invictus Practical or Carbon Arms, allow you to quickly grab and reload your shotgun. Depending on your preferred reloading style—whether it’s quad-loading or dual-loading—your choice of caddy can greatly influence your speed and efficiency. For beginners, it’s recommended to try a few different options to see what feels most natural before committing to a setup.

3. Competition Belts
A sturdy competition belt is another essential piece of equipment. 3-gun belts are often composed of two layers—an inner velcro belt and an outer belt that holds all your gear. This system keeps the belt from shifting during movement-heavy stages. Weber Tactical and Safariland are well-known brands that offer robust, competition-proven belts. Although you can start with a basic setup, investing in a high-quality belt early on will pay off in terms of comfort and reliability as you progress.

Safety Gear

Eye and Ear Protection
Safety is paramount in 3-gun competitions. All competitors must wear certified eye and ear protection at all times. Invest in quality eye protection that offers a clear field of vision and ballistic-rated lenses. For ear protection, many shooters prefer electronic earmuffs that allow them to hear range commands while protecting against loud gunfire. Popular brands include Howard Leight, Peltor, or Walkers, which offer models with high-quality noise reduction and comfort.

The Importance of High-Quality Equipment

While it’s possible to borrow equipment in the friendly 3-gun community, investing in your own gear can save you a lot of time and stress in the long run. High-quality optics, for instance, can dramatically improve your accuracy. Optics like the Vortex Strike Eagle or Razor HD 1-6 offer a versatile magnification range that can be used for close quarters as well as long-range targets. Likewise, a reliable shotgun in the $1,200–$2,000 range, such as the Benelli M2, is a worthy investment as you get more serious about the sport.

However, getting started doesn’t require a massive upfront investment. Many competitors begin with what they have—whether it’s a basic rifle or a hunting shotgun—and upgrade their gear over time as they learn what suits their style. The 3-gun community is welcoming, and it’s common for fellow shooters to loan gear or offer advice. But eventually, as you progress, having your own equipment tailored to your preferences will help you perform better and feel more comfortable in competition.

Getting Started on a Budget

If you’re just starting out and don’t want to break the bank, focus on the basics: a good holster, functional magazine pouches, and reliable firearms. Gear upgrades, like a high-end scope or competition-ready shotgun, can come later as you get more comfortable with the sport. Don’t hesitate to ask more experienced shooters for recommendations, and take advantage of the communal atmosphere to try different gear before making major purchases.

Major 3-Gun Matches

While a lot of Major matches have come and gone over the years, either due to ranges shutting down or Match Directors “retiring”, there is still an abundance of opportunity to shoot every year. The Superstition Mountain Mystery 3-Gun event in Mesa, Arizona, is usually the first of the season, followed by the Magpul Texas 3-Gun Championship at Reveille Peak Ranch. Another longstanding match is the Rocky Mountain 3-Gun Championship at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton, New Mexico. You’ll also find charity matches like the Duskin 3-Gun and Memorial 3-Gun Championship that go to benefit great causes.

The 3-Gun Nation series was a professional circuit where the top 64 ranked shooters competed for a $50,000 year-end prize. It served to propel the 3-Gun sport across broadcast television before closing their doors a few years ago.

These events are just some of the top of 3-gun shooting. They attract and inspire new competitors to improve their skills. They also draw some of the most competitive shooters from across the country for a race to the podium.

Getting Started in 3-Gun Competition

Starting your 3-gun competition journey is an exciting challenge. It requires preparation, practice, and the right mindset. First, find a local range that hosts 3-gun matches. Most new competitors start here. Look for match schedules and locations on Practiscore, Facebook shooting groups, or forums like Brian Enos.

Step 1: Watch and Learn

Attending a match as a spectator is a great way to begin. Watching competitors will give you insights into the match flow. The 3-gun community is welcoming, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or check out gear.

Step 2: Practice Makes Perfect

After understanding the match format, start practicing. Developing smooth transitions between rifle, shotgun, and handgun is key. Each firearm requires a different technique, and muscle memory is essential.

Begin with dry-fire drills at home. Focus on safely drawing your pistol, shouldering your rifle, and loading your shotgun. The more comfortable you are, the faster you’ll get. Don’t be intimidated if you feel slow at first. Practice will make you faster and more confident.

Step 3: Build a Solid Gear Setup

While you don’t need the most expensive gear to start, the right equipment makes a difference. Gather the basic pieces for your first match:

• Holster: A secure holster prevents drops, which disqualify you instantly. Blackhawk, Blade-Tech and Comp-Tac offer good options with level III retention. Choose one that balances security with ease of access.
• Magazine Pouches: You’ll need pouches for your rifle and pistol, and a shotgun caddy for shells. Start simple and experiment to find what works best for you. Brands like Invictus Practical or Carbon Arms offer fast reload options.
• Competition Belt: A sturdy belt system keeps your gear secure. A good belt is an investment that improves your comfort and efficiency.

Step 4: Dive In—And Bring Humility

Jumping in is the most important step. Many of us showed up to our first match with little to no gear and were quickly welcomed and outfitted by others. The 3-gun world is known for its friendly spirit, and many competitors are happy to help.

Remember, 3-gun can be intimidating, and you wont win your first match (probably not even close to be honest). But that’s okay. Showing up with what you have and an open mind is what matters most.

Step 5: The Value of Repetition and Growth

Improving at 3-gun comes from consistent practice. As you attend more matches, you’ll identify areas for improvement. Whether it’s faster reloads or smoother transitions, practice will help. Better gear, like a magnified optic or a competition-ready shotgun, can also enhance your performance.

Regular practice at the range and with dry-fire drills at home is key. It builds muscle memory and boosts confidence. As you gain experience, you’ll refine your approach and develop strategies that suit you.

Understanding the Match Format

A typical 3-gun match has stages ranging from four to nine. Each stage offers unique challenges, requiring you to use different firearms in various sequences. You might face long-range rifle shots, close-quarters handgun targets, or shotgun targets needing quick reloading.

Before each stage, competitors receive a briefing followed by a 5-10 minute walkthrough. This covers the rules, scoring, and shooting order. It’s vital to listen carefully and ask questions to ensure a smooth and safe performance when it’s your turn.

Ammunition is also critical. You may need different ammo types for each stage, such as birdshot, buckshot, or slugs for your shotgun. Bringing plenty of ammunition is wise, as stages can vary in round count. Word of caution: Green tip M855 ammo is universally banned from most ranges, be sure not to bring anything steel core.

Step 6: Join a Local Match

When you feel ready, enter your first match. Local matches are ideal for beginners, being more relaxed and great for learning. Entry fees are affordable, ranging from $20 to $50. As you gain experience, you can move to larger, more competitive matches. Match directors are pretty good about keeping round counts reasonable, the general rule of thumb is 150 rounds per gun to get you through a local (with plenty to spare).

Local matches are where you’ll meet experienced shooters who can mentor you. They often share valuable advice, tips, or lend equipment. Regular participation in local matches will help you improve steadily and prepare for more competitive events.

Starting in 3-gun may seem daunting, but it’s rewarding with the right mindset and practice. Focus on learning, improving, and enjoying the journey, not perfection. With time, dedication, and the right gear, you’ll become a more skilled and confident competitor, ready for advanced matches.

3-Gun Competition for Skill Development

Participating in 3-gun competitions is one of the most effective ways to improve your overall firearm handling skills. The dynamic nature of the sport forces competitors to develop proficiency across multiple platforms—rifle, shotgun, and pistol—while operating under time pressure. This not only hones your technical abilities but also builds mental toughness, focus, and adaptability, all of which are essential whether you’re shooting for self-defense, hunting, or other shooting disciplines.

Mastering Firearm Transitions

One of the most valuable skills you’ll gain in 3-gun competitions is the ability to smoothly transition between firearms. In any given stage, you might be required to engage long-range targets with your rifle, quickly switch to your shotgun for clays or steel plates, and then transition to your pistol for close-quarters accuracy. Developing these quick, seamless transitions is key to performing well under the clock, and it’s a skill that carries over into other areas, such as self-defense, where you might need to transition between different tools or adapt to rapidly changing situations.

As you practice for 3-gun, you’ll become more comfortable with each type of firearm, building the muscle memory necessary for swift and safe handling. This is particularly beneficial for shooters who may have experience with only one type of gun; by participating in 3-gun, you’re pushed to become proficient with all three, giving you greater versatility and confidence with a range of firearms.

Improving Speed and Accuracy

Speed and accuracy are the heart of 3-gun competitions, and balancing these two factors is a challenge every competitor must face. You’re racing against the clock, but accuracy is crucial—missed shots can result in penalties that will hurt your overall score. The pressure to perform quickly while maintaining precision pushes you to find a balance between speed and control.

Through regular competition and practice, you’ll see noticeable improvements in your shooting efficiency. Success in 3-gun often comes down to practicing fundamentals, such as reloading your shotgun or drawing your pistol quickly and smoothly. Even small gains in efficiency can make a big difference on the course, as reducing your reload time or improving your target transitions can shave precious seconds off your stage time.

This combination of speed and accuracy not only improves your performance in 3-gun but also translates into other areas. For self-defense, being able to make quick, accurate decisions under stress is vital. In hunting, fast and precise shots while knowing your holds can be the difference between success and a missed opportunity.

Handling Moving and Reactive Targets

One of the standout features of 3-gun competitions is the frequent inclusion of moving or reactive targets. Unlike stationary targets at the range, moving targets in 3-gun simulate more realistic scenarios where timing, tracking, and adaptability are required. For example, you might face targets that pop up unexpectedly, or clays launched into the air that you must hit before they disappear.

Learning to engage moving targets helps improve your situational awareness and decision-making skills. In real-life situations—whether it’s self-defense, hunting, or tactical training—threats or game are rarely stationary. Being able to assess a moving target quickly, adjust your aim, and make the shot is a valuable skill that 3-gun competitions help to cultivate. These experiences sharpen your ability to react swiftly and accurately, boosting your confidence and competence in handling unpredictable scenarios.

Mental Toughness and Focus

3-gun competitions are not just a test of physical shooting skills; they also demand mental resilience and focus. The combination of timed pressure, complex stages, and the need for quick transitions means that you’ll be constantly thinking on your feet. Competitors need to memorize stage layouts, plan their shooting order, and manage their ammunition—all while maintaining focus under pressure.

This mental training can be just as beneficial as the physical skills you develop. In high-pressure situations, such as self-defense encounters, maintaining calm, assessing the situation, and making decisive movements are critical. Regular participation in 3-gun teaches you to stay focused in chaotic environments, think through your actions, and execute under stress, all of which are transferrable to other real-world situations.

Long-Term Benefits Beyond Competition

While 3-gun competitions are thrilling and fun in their own right, the skills you develop go far beyond the competition. Whether you’re looking to improve your marksmanship for hunting, gain confidence for self-defense, or simply become a more well-rounded shooter, 3-gun provides a comprehensive training ground. The sport combines technical shooting skills with real-world applications, helping you build a solid foundation that can enhance your overall proficiency with firearms.

Moreover, 3-gun competitions foster a community of supportive, experienced shooters – the 3-gun community is welcoming and generous, often sharing gear, advice, and encouragement. This camaraderie not only helps you improve your skills but also keeps you motivated to push through challenges and continually grow as a competitor.

Finding and Participating in 3-Gun Matches

If you’re eager to dive into 3-gun competitions, finding local matches is your first step. Start by checking with your local shooting ranges or national organizations like USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association) or Practiscore, which maintain event schedules and provide structured resources for newcomers.

Before jumping in, it’s a good idea to attend a match as a spectator. Observing a competition helps you understand the rules, the flow of the stages, and the gear needed. Don’t hesitate to reach out to experienced shooters for advice—they’re often happy to mentor beginners and share tips on improving performance.

• Connect with local ranges for upcoming matches.
• Check organizations like USPSA and Practiscore for event calendars.
• Observe a match before competing to learn the ropes.
• Seek advice from experienced shooters to help you get started.

By taking these steps, you can ease into 3-gun competition, gradually growing your skills and confidence in this exciting and challenging sport.

---

Conclusion

3-gun competition is an exhilarating and dynamic way to test and improve your shooting skills, regardless of your experience level. With divisions for every skill set, from beginners to seasoned pros, and a focus on safety and community, the sport offers something for everyone.

As participation in 3-gun continues to grow rapidly, it’s the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself, meet fellow shooting enthusiasts, and develop your firearm proficiency. So why not give it a try? With the right equipment, practice, and a welcoming community behind you, you’ll soon experience the thrill of 3-gun competition for yourself.he right equipment and a bit of practice, you’ll soon feel the excitement of this sport.