Cowboy action shooting - info req

[stonecutter]

This is something I've been thinking about getting into, as I love historic pieces and the West is part of the culture around here. Anyone here do it? What pistols would you recommend? I have a 44 mag rifle, can I use this ammo or would it be strictly 44.40? Obviously I don't know much about cowboy action shooting at this point, but would be curious to hear first-hand from some of the experienced members here as a start. Thanks!

[California Joe]

I moved this to Equipment pal. You'll get more helpful responses here. Heh.

[HOLLiS]

I am a life member of SASS, Load are designed to be low velocity. Caliber is not a problem except for minimuns. I had a 44 mag Vaquero that I used. I did my own loads and velocity was around 700 FPS.

I would suggest going to a few events. Cowboy action shooting is designed to be fun. Speed is a part of it, but not like IPSC.

You can also go to the SASS site and read the rules.

http://www.sassnet.com/About-What-is-SASS-001A.php

[stonecutter]

CJ - I was scratching my head trying to figure out if I had actually posted this or not, couldn't find it for the longest time. Heh

Thanks for the info Hollis, I'll definitely have to go to an event. Can't wait to try out one of those Colts.

[Engine Mech]

Get lever action rifle same caliber as revolver and DB shot gun. Don't forget the chaps and spurs. It's not about how good you shoot, it's how good you look. Get out there and have some fun.

[stonecutter]

yeahyeahyeahyeah! Can't wait. I got the lever action rifle (Marlin 1894 CB) and the double-barrel shotgun (dating to the 1950s, got a nice old look about it). Now just have to decide about the revolvers. Sounds like a big costume party, but more fun.

Speaking of shotguns, last year I did some work in Jarbidge, Nevada, which was the site of the last stage coach robbery and murder in the history of the West. Happened in 1916. Anyway, an old man running the small general store there (for the 20 people who live there on a permanent basis) had a shotgun up on the wall, near the wood stove. I asked about it, and he took it down and gave it to me to look at. It was made in 1890, and had actually been carried by the guys on the stagecoaches. It only had a single, thick barrel, hinge action, and was quite heavy. Very cool. Talk about "riding shotgun".