The Complete Guide to 3 Gun Competition: Everything You Need to Know
If you’ve ever watched a shooter sprint between positions, swapping from rifle to shotgun to pistol while engaging steel, paper, and clays—you’ve seen 3-Gun in action. It’s fast, dynamic, and tests everything you’ve got as a shooter.
This guide covers everything you need to know about 3-Gun competition. Whether you’re trying to figure out if the sport is right for you, preparing for your first match, or looking to level up your game—we’ve got you covered.
What Is 3-Gun Competition?
3-Gun competition is a practical shooting sport where competitors engage targets using three firearm platforms: rifle, shotgun, and pistol. Each stage presents a unique challenge combining speed, accuracy, and efficient gun handling. Shooters engage steel, paper, clay, and sometimes moving targets against the clock. Scoring typically combines raw time with neutralization or engagement penalties.
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. Another might run you through a maze of walls with a pistol. Most throw everything at you at once—rifle, shotgun, and pistol all in one run. It’s controlled chaos in the best way.
The sport originated in the 1980s and has grown into one of the most popular competitive shooting disciplines in the United States. What draws people in is the variety. Every match is different. Every stage is a puzzle to solve. And you’re always working to get faster and cleaner.
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.
How Does 3-Gun Differ From Other Shooting Sports?
Unlike single-platform sports such as USPSA (pistol only) or trap shooting (shotgun only), 3-Gun requires proficiency across rifle, shotgun, and pistol. Competitors must master three distinct platforms, manage multiple transitions, and carry gear for all three guns. This multi-platform approach creates unique challenges in both equipment setup and stage strategy.
If you’ve shot USPSA, you know the satisfaction of chasing a clean classifier run. If you’ve shot skeet or trap, you understand the rhythm of wing shooting. 3-Gun takes those discipline-specific skills and throws them all into a blender. Here’s how it stacks up against other popular disciplines:
|
Sport
|
Platforms
|
Focus
|
Best For
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
3-Gun |
Rifle, Shotgun, Pistol |
Multi-platform versatility |
Shooters Wanting Variety |
|
USPSA |
Pistol only |
Speed and accuracy |
Handgun specialists |
|
2-Gun/PCSL |
Rifle and pistol |
Carbine skills, hit-factor |
Skip the shotgun hassle |
|
PRS/NRL |
Precision Rifle |
Long-range accuracy |
Precision shooters |
|
The Tactical Games |
Rifle and pistol |
Shooting + fitness |
Athletes who shoot |
The multi-platform requirement is what makes 3-Gun uniquely demanding. You can’t specialize. A great pistol shooter who struggles with shotgun reloads will lose time on every stage that requires shells. A rifle wizard who fumbles transitions will watch those seconds tick away. The sport rewards well-rounded competitors who can handle whatever the stage designer throws at them.
3-Gun Divisions Explained
3-Gun divisions categorize competitors based on their equipment, ensuring fair competition. Common divisions include Tactical Optics (magnified rifle optic, iron sight pistol), Modified (optics allowed on all platforms), and Open (no restrictions). Division rules vary between sanctioning bodies, but the core concept remains: group shooters by gear so competition stays fair.
Division rules vary slightly between match organizers, but the core equipment categories stay pretty consistent across the board. You might see tighter magazine restrictions in Limited at some clubs, or different minimum pistol calibers for Heavy—some allow 9mm while others require .40 caliber minimum. When in doubt, check the match listing or ask the match director before you show up. Here’s what each division typically allows:
|
Division
|
Rifle
|
Pistol
|
Shotgun
|
Speed Loaders
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Tactical Optics |
Single Primary Optic (typically LPVO) |
Iron sights only |
Tube-fed, Irons |
No |
|
Modified |
Multiple optics allowed |
Slide Mounted Optic Allowed |
Tube-fed, Optic OK |
No |
|
Open |
Multiple optics allowed |
Optic allowed (slide or frame) |
Box-mag OK |
Yes |
|
Limited/Factory |
Iron Sights or 1x Optic |
Iron Sights |
Tube-fed, Irons |
No |
|
Heavy Metal |
.308 Cal, optics are match dependent |
.40 cal or .45 ACP* |
Pump* |
No |
Which Division Should You Choose?
Look at your current gear and pick the division that fits. Don’t buy equipment just to squeeze into a specific division—that’s a trap that costs money and delays your start. Here’s the quick guide:
- Tactical Optics: Best starting point if you have an AR with LPVO, iron-sight pistol, and basic shotgun. This is where most new shooters land.
- Modified: The “new normal”—run your red dot pistol and optic-equipped shotgun while keeping tube-fed loading. Most popular division at local matches.
- Open: Only if you already own race gear or want zero restrictions. Box-fed shotguns and speed loaders change the game.
- Limited: Great for mil-style setups or shooters who want a level playing field on irons.
- Heavy Metal: A challenging division for shooters who already own .308 and .45 platforms. Recoil management becomes a real skill.
You’re not locked into a division forever. Many shooters start in Tactical Optics, add a red dot pistol and move to Modified, then eventually build toward Open. Let your gear and skill progression guide the path.
Match Format and Stage Types
A typical 3-Gun match consists of 4-8 stages, each presenting a unique course of fire. Stages combine multiple target types (steel, paper, clays) and may require one, two, or all three platforms. Local matches run 4-6 hours; major matches span multiple days with 10+ stages. Squads of 10-14 shooters rotate through stages together.
Common Stage Types
Speed Stages: Short, fast courses focused on technical engagements. You might dump a mag into close targets followed by an array blocked by no-shoot targets (they’ll penalize you 5sec or more for each hit) or sprint through a pistol-only bay to work a spinner at the end. These reward aggression, quick splits, and knowing when to slow down. Think of them as drag racing.
Field Courses or “Jungle Runs”: Longer stages with plenty of movement, multiple shooting positions, and depending on the range: one, two or all three guns. You’ll plan your transitions, decide when to reload (think shotgun caddies), and manage your gear throughout the stage. These are the chess matches of 3-Gun—planning and accurate target engagement matters as much if not more than shooting speed.
Long-Range Stages: Rifle-focused stages with targets at 200-500 yards. Accuracy matters more than speed here. A miss at distance costs more time than slowing down for a solid hit. Wind reading and positional shooting become real factors. You’ll usually have pistol or shotgun targets to engage before you can move on to the rifle work, though.
Standards Stages: Fixed courses that test specific skills. These sometimes appear at major matches for consistent scoring comparison across competitors. These stages are less common now, but don’t be surprised to see a match director throw one into the mix.
Target Types You'll Encounter
- Paper Targets: IPSC/USPSA-style cardboard. Single shot in the A-zone will neutralize, otherwise any 2 hits in the scoring area counts.
- Steel Targets: Must fall or show a visible hit (long distance flashers). Sizes range from full IPSC to small poppers and plates. Steel provides visible and audible feedback—you know immediately if you hit.
- Clay Targets: Must visibly break. Normally Shotgun-only, but we see static clays for rifle from time to time & sometimes pistol. Can be stationary on stands, flying from throwers, or mounted on spring launchers. Pattern your shotgun before match day.
- Moving Targets: Swingers, spinners, droppers, and Texas stars add complexity to stage planning. Learn the timing and engage when the target presents the best opportunity.
How 3-Gun Scoring Works
Most 3-Gun matches use Time Plus scoring where your raw stage time plus penalty seconds equals your final score. Missed targets add 5-10 seconds each. The lowest total time wins the stage. Some matches use Hit Factor scoring (points divided by time) common in USPSA, but Time Plus dominates local 3-Gun matches because it’s simpler to understand and score.
Time Plus Scoring Breakdown
Here’s how it works: Your stage time starts when the buzzer sounds and stops when you fire your last shot. Then penalties get added:
- Miss on paper target (FTN): +5 seconds
- Miss on steel target (engaged but not neutralized): +10 seconds
- Missed clay: +5 seconds
- Failure to engage: +15 seconds per target
- Procedural error: +5 to +10 seconds
Example: You shoot a stage in 52.41 seconds. You forgot a steel target (+15) and missed a clay pigeon (+5). Your final score: 72.41 seconds. The math is simple, and that’s the point. You don’t need to calculate hit factors or worry about zone scoring. Just hit your targets and move fast.
Why Clean Runs Beat Fast Runs
New shooters often chase speed and stack up penalties. A clean, controlled 60-second run beats a frantic 45-second run with three misses or Failure to Neutralize (45 + 15 = 60 seconds, plus you’re stressed and sloppy for the next stage). Build accuracy first, and speed will follow.
Equipment Requirements by Platform
3-Gun requires three functioning firearms (rifle, shotgun, pistol), a belt system to carry magazines and shotgun shells, eye and ear protection, and appropriate ammunition. You don’t need race-grade equipment to start—reliable gear that fits your division rules is enough for your first several matches.
An important note on ammunition: Steel Core (Green Tip), Bimetal Jacket, or ammunition over a certain velocity are typically prohibited as it damages steel targets. Make sure you’re bringing approved ammo to avoid a possible match disqualification.
Rifle Setup
The AR-15 platform in .223/5.56 dominates 3-Gun. An 18″ barrel balances velocity for long-range stages with handling for close work. Here’s what matters:
- Optic: 1-6x or 1-8x LPVO is standard for Tactical Optics and Modified. Red dots work but limit you on distance.
- Magazines: Bring at least 4 quality 30-round mags, plus a 40 rounder if your division allows it. Lancer and Magpul are proven choices.
- Compensator: Helps manage recoil on follow-up shots. Not required, but helpful.
- Gas System: If your rifle runs reliably, leave it alone. Tuning comes later.
Shotgun Setup
The shotgun is often the weakest platform for new competitors. A reliable semi-auto tube-fed 12-gauge is the standard. Here’s the baseline:
- Platform: Benelli M2, Stoeger M3000, or Beretta 1301 are popular choices at various price points.
- Capacity: 8+1 minimum with an extended tube. Know your division’s limit.
- Choke: Modified or Light Modified for most competition use. Pattern your gun with your ammo.
- Loading Gear: Start with pockets or a dump pouch. Shell caddies come after you learn a loading technique.
Pistol Setup
A full-size 9mm service pistol is the standard. Run what you shoot well.
- Platform: Glock 17/34, CZ SP-01, Sig P320, S&W M&P—any reliable full-size 9mm works.
- Capacity: 17+ rounds per magazine. Bring at least 4 mags.
- Optic: Depends on your division. Modified allows red dots. Tactical Optics requires irons.
- Holster: Must fully cover trigger guard and retain securely. No cross-draw or shoulder rigs.
Belt and Carrying Gear
You need a way to carry mags and shells. A stiff inner/outer belt system is ideal, but a sturdy tactical belt works for your first matches. Plan for: 2 pistol mag pouches, 1-2 rifle mag pouches, and some method for carrying shotgun shells (pouches, caddies, or vest).
When you’re ready to deep dive into belt selection, we’ve got a full guide for you here: How to Set Up a Competition Belt for Any Discipline
How Much Does 3-Gun Cost?
Entry-level 3-Gun setups start around $2,000-3,500 using existing firearms with minimal upgrades. Competitive mid-tier setups run $5,000-8,000. High-end race rigs can exceed $15,000. Ongoing costs include ammunition (150-300 rounds per match), match fees ($25-150), and travel expenses for regional/national events.
Startup Cost Breakdown
|
Item
|
Budget
|
Mid-Tier
|
Race-Ready
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
Rifle + Optic |
$800-1,200 |
$1,500-2,500 |
$3,500-6,000+ |
|
Shotgun |
$500-700 |
$1,200-1,800 |
$2,500-4,000+ |
|
Pistol |
$400-1,200 |
$1,400-2,800 |
$3,000-5,000+ |
|
Belt + Pouches |
$100-200 |
$250-400 |
$400-800 |
|
TOTAL |
$1,800-3,500 |
$5,000-8,000 |
$10,000-15,000+ |
Ongoing Match Costs
- Match Fees: $25-75 for local matches, $150-500 for major matches
- Ammunition: Plan 150-300 rounds total per match. At current prices, budget $75-150 per match.
- Travel: Gas, hotels, and food for major matches. Regional matches might run $200-500 all-in.
- Replacement Parts: Springs, extractors, and firing pins wear out. Budget $50-100/year for maintenance.
Transitions and Stage Planning Fundamentals
Transitions are the movements between firearms during a stage—dumping your rifle to draw your pistol, or grounding your shotgun to grab your rifle. Efficient transitions separate experienced competitors from beginners. Stage planning is the mental process of deciding engagement order, reload points, and movement paths before the buzzer sounds.
Basic Transition Principles
Smooth transitions come from consistent practice and smart stage setup. A fumbled transition costs 2-5 seconds—multiply that by several transitions per stage and you’re hemorrhaging time. Here’s what matters:
- Dump vs. Retain: Most stages allow dumping into barrels or on tables. Don’t waste time carefully placing a gun you’re done with—put it where it’s safe and move on.
- Staging Position: Set your staged guns where you’ll naturally be when you need them. Think about your movement path during the walkthrough.
- Hands Work Together: As one hand dumps the current gun, the other hand is already moving to the next platform. Economy of motion matters.
- Eyes Lead: Your eyes should be finding the next target before the gun gets there. Don’t look at your hands during transitions.
Stage Planning Process
During your walkthrough, build a mental map of the stage. Walk it multiple times if allowed. Ask yourself these questions at each position:
- What’s the mandatory engagement order? (Some targets must be shot first or last.)
- Where will I transition between guns? (Identify dump points and pickup locations.)
- Where do I need to reload—and can I do it on the move?
- What’s my biggest time sink? (Usually long-range rifle or shotgun loading.)
- What could go wrong, and what’s my backup plan?
Experienced shooters visualize their run multiple times before stepping to the line. They know exactly where they’ll be, what gun they’ll have, and what targets they’ll engage at each position. This mental preparation isn’t optional—it’s what separates controlled runs from chaotic ones.
Finding and Preparing for Your First Match
Finding your first 3-Gun match starts with local clubs and online match calendars. Practiscore.com lists matches by location and type. Local Facebook groups and club websites announce upcoming events. Plan to arrive early, attend the shooter’s meeting, and let your squad know you’re new—experienced shooters are happy to help newcomers.
Where to Find Matches
- Practiscore.com: Filter by state and search for “3-Gun,” “Multi-Gun,” or “Outlaw” matches.
- Action Gunner Match Calendar: We maintain a national calendar covering 3-Gun, 2-Gun, and multigun events with direct registration links.
- Local Gun Clubs: Call or visit ranges near you. Many host monthly matches that aren’t widely advertised online.
- Facebook Groups: Search “[Your State] 3-Gun” or “[Your State] Multigun” for local communities and match announcements. 3 Gun Talk and 3 Gun Information, Gear & Events are two very active groups to check out.
Pre-Match Preparation Checklist
- Confirm your guns function reliably. Test-fire each platform before match day.
- Zero your rifle optic. Verify at 50 and 100 yards minimum.
- Load magazines the night before to save morning stress.
- Pack ammo plus 25% extra for each platform.
- Check match listing for start time, squad number, and special rules.
- Lay out all gear the night before like you’re heading to the airport.
Match Day Gear Checklist
- Rifle, shotgun, pistol (chamber flags if required)
- Ammunition for all three guns (plus extra)
- Belt, holster, mag pouches, shell carriers
- Eye and ear protection (electronic ear pro recommended)
- Gloves for resetting steel targets
- Lead removal wipes (Hero Wipes, D-Lead, or similar)
- Water, snacks, sunscreen
- Small tool kit or multitool
Safety and Match Etiquette
3-Gun matches operate under strict safety rules to protect all participants. Matches use a cold range policy where firearms stay unloaded unless under direct Range Officer supervision. Violations like breaking the 180-degree safety plane, negligent discharge, or sweeping others with your muzzle result in immediate disqualification. Safety isn’t optional—it’s the price of admission.
Core Safety Rules
- Cold Range: Firearms stay unloaded except under RO supervision. Magazines out, chambers empty, chamber flags in if required.
- 180-Degree Rule: Your muzzle must stay pointed downrange. Imagine a line extending from your shoulders while you’re facing the back berm—never let your barrel cross it. Breaking the 180 is an immediate DQ.
- Finger Discipline: Finger off trigger unless actively engaging targets. Not during movement, reloads, or transitions.
- Safe Tables: Designated areas for handling unloaded firearms. No ammunition allowed at safe tables—ever.
Range Commands You'll Hear
- “Make ready” – You’re under RO control. Load and prepare your starting firearm.
- “Are you ready?” – Acknowledge or request more time.
- “Stand by” – Timer beep coming within 1-3 seconds.
- “Stop!” – Freeze immediately. Something’s wrong. Don’t move until instructed.
- “If finished, unload and show clear” – You’re done. Safely clear the gun, follow RO commands for slide-hammer-holster or muzzle up if finishing with a long gun.
Squad Etiquette
Being a good squadmate matters as much as being a good shooter. Help reset targets between shooters—tape paper, reset steel, pick up brass if asked. Stay quiet when others are shooting or prepping. Show up early and stay through tear-down. The community remembers who helps and who disappears after their last stage. You’ll quickly earn bonus points for learning how to use the scoring tablet and calling out shooting order.
Lead Safety
Steel targets and spent brass create lead dust. Wear gloves when resetting. Don’t touch your face during the match. Use lead removal wipes between stages (D-Lead or Hero Wipes are my go-to when washing isn’t an option) and shower when you get home. This can be a long-term health issue if you don’t respect it—treat it seriously from day one, especially if you have kids or pets at home.
Major 3-Gun Matches and Series
Major 3-Gun matches are multi-day national events featuring 10-15 stages, professional RO crews, and prize tables. These include the Texas 3-Gun Championship, USPSA Multigun Nationals, Superstition Mountain Mystery 3-Gun, Rocky Mountain 3-Gun, and various regional championships. Some require qualification, lottery entry, or have extensive waiting lists and attract hundreds of competitors.
Marquee National Events
- USPSA Multigun Nationals: The official USPSA championship. Follows strict USPSA Multigun rules.
- Superstition Mountain Mystery 3-Gun (SMM3G): One of the oldest and most prestigious matches. Held in Arizona each spring.
- Rocky Mountain 3-Gun: 9 natural terrain stages over 3 Days at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton, NM.
- Texas 3-Gun Championship: 10 natural terrain stages in the beautiful Texas hill country near Burnet, TX.
When to Shoot Your First Major
Don’t rush into major matches. Shoot 5-10 local matches first. Get comfortable with stage planning, transitions, and match flow. Major matches have longer stages, stricter rules, higher pressure, and multi-day logistics. Build your foundation at local matches, then step up when you’re ready for the challenge.
Building Your Skills: Drills and Practice
Improvement in 3-Gun comes from deliberate practice between matches. Dry fire builds gun handling and transitions without ammunition cost. Live fire validates skills and exposes weaknesses. The best shooters combine consistent dry fire practice (3-4 sessions weekly) with focused live fire sessions built around specific drills rather than random shooting.
Essential Dry Fire Work
Dry fire is free and effective. Ten focused minutes beats an hour of mindless trigger pulls. Use a shot timer app with par times to push yourself. Work on:
- Draws and holstering (pistol)
- Reloads on all three platforms
- Transitions between guns
- Entering and exiting shooting positions
- Shotgun loading techniques (with inert/dummy rounds)
Go-To Live Fire Drills
- Bill Drill: 6 rounds at 7 yards from the holster. Tests draw speed and recoil control, helps establish proper grip.
- 1-Reload-1: Fire one, reload, fire one. Use on all three platforms to build reload consistency (dual-load with shotgun).
- 2-Reload-2 (Shotgun): Fire 2, load 2, fire 2. Builds loading speed under time pressure.
- Close-Range Holdover Drill: Rifle at 5, 10, 15, 25 yards. Learn your optic’s mechanical offset for close targets.
- Weapon Manipulation Drills: All three guns, unloaded & staged on table, dump box or holster. Practice retrieving, loading, dumping on safe and transitioning to next firearm on an array of targets. Can add many variations to get a lot of quality reps in.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Every new shooter makes mistakes. These are the ones you can avoid if you know they’re coming:
- Not reading match info: Download the matchbook. Know the round counts, stage descriptions, and gear restrictions before you arrive.
- Showing up late: Arrive 45-60 minutes early. Help with setup if you can—it makes a great first impression.
- Copying stage plans: Build a plan that fits your skills and gear. Don’t blindly copy faster shooters who have different capabilities.
- Going too fast: Penalties hurt more than slow splits for new shooters. Build accuracy first.
- Ignoring lead safety: Gloves, wipes, handwashing. Don’t skip this—it matters for long-term health.
- Disappearing after your run: Help reset. Stay for tear-down. Be a good squadmate.
- Buying gear before shooting: Run what you have for your first few matches. Let match experience guide your upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What guns do I need for 3-Gun?
How much ammo do I need for a 3-Gun match?
Can I shoot 3-Gun with a pump shotgun?
What's the difference between 3-Gun and USPSA Multigun?
How do I get classified in 3-Gun?
What's the best division for beginners?
How long does a 3-Gun match take?
What happened to 3-Gun Nation?
What happened to UML/USSL or The United Multigun League?
Your First Match Is Just the Beginning
If you’ve read this far, you’re already ahead of most people who think about getting into 3-Gun. You understand what the sport is, what gear you need, how matches work, and what to expect on match day.
Now it’s time to do the thing. Find a match. Sign up. Show up early, be safe, help reset, and learn. You’ll make mistakes—everyone does. What matters is you’re in the game.
Every top shooter you’ve seen started exactly where you are. They fumbled loads, forgot stage plans, and finished near the bottom. What separated them was showing up again. And again. And getting a little better each time.
Welcome to 3-Gun. We’ll see you on the range.
– The Action Gunner Team