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3 gun
5/25/2011 7:43:17 AM
so odviously i see alot of ars being used in three gun comp can any one give me their experiences and a little in-site for my first forray into this or give me a little pointers for practicing for next quarter. im a decent shot and would love to hone my skills. ill probably get dq'ed for something that i mess up on but you know equipment, exercises, places near dallas i can practice or learn from people. anything
5/25/2011 6:29:43 AM
We have a 3-gun forum under the training section. It will be more helpful than AR tech for equipment needs.
Check TXHTF for info on matches.
3-gun has a lot of redundant safety rules due to the inherently dangerous nature of the sport. While asking the 3-gun forum will help, it is best to actually go to a match (with a friend or fellow arfcommer) and watch what's going on to get a real sense for it.
ETA: I started shooting 3-gun like competitions (no pistol) at age 12. Started shooting practical pistol at age 15. Finally started going to real 3-gun matches this year. I'm a poor person to ask for advice, since I've never really gotten any better.
Check TXHTF for info on matches.
3-gun has a lot of redundant safety rules due to the inherently dangerous nature of the sport. While asking the 3-gun forum will help, it is best to actually go to a match (with a friend or fellow arfcommer) and watch what's going on to get a real sense for it.
ETA: I started shooting 3-gun like competitions (no pistol) at age 12. Started shooting practical pistol at age 15. Finally started going to real 3-gun matches this year. I'm a poor person to ask for advice, since I've never really gotten any better.
5/25/2011 7:23:29 AM
thanks man i am really interested in this and comps like it
5/25/2011 7:55:41 AM
Do you own a centerfire semi-auto rifle, a repeating shotgun (pump or auto), and a handgun (pistol or revolver) plus holster ? If so, you can shoot 3-gun. Please do not get all vapor-locked with the "must have the right equipment" mindset... just run what you brung. If you lack one of these guns, ask here before buying anything; we only need to know your budget and what division you prefer to shoot in (or just tell us what other guns you have and we can tell you which division you will fit into). Don't go out and buy any gun for 3-gun without getting some competent advice from actual competitors (no, the gun counter guy at WalMart does not count).
Too many folks on this site get so intimidated by 3-gun that they never get around to trying it for themselves - they always find a way to make excuses for procrastinating (wrong equipment, not ready etc.). Read the basics, come shoot a match and start accumulating experience. Don't stress about getting disqualified - just go SLOW first time and focus on being safe... speed will come in time, and you will find the learning curve is exceedingly steep for most.
Too many folks on this site get so intimidated by 3-gun that they never get around to trying it for themselves - they always find a way to make excuses for procrastinating (wrong equipment, not ready etc.). Read the basics, come shoot a match and start accumulating experience. Don't stress about getting disqualified - just go SLOW first time and focus on being safe... speed will come in time, and you will find the learning curve is exceedingly steep for most.
5/25/2011 9:01:57 AM
Hey
BT2009
Texas you live in 3 Gun land!
Central texas has some good matches,,
the Copperas Cove Pistol Club has a match this Sat.
it is a good local match, a place to get your 3 gun game sorted out.
Jim
BT2009
Texas you live in 3 Gun land!
Central texas has some good matches,,
the Copperas Cove Pistol Club has a match this Sat.
it is a good local match, a place to get your 3 gun game sorted out.
Jim
5/25/2011 9:33:13 AM
Originally Posted By StealthyBlagga:
Do you own a centerfire semi-auto rifle, a repeating shotgun (pump or auto), and a handgun (pistol or revolver) plus holster ? If so, you can shoot 3-gun. Please do not get all vapor-locked with the "must have the right equipment" mindset... just run what you brung. If you lack one of these guns, ask here before buying anything; we only need to know your budget and what division you prefer to shoot in (or just tell us what other guns you have and we can tell you which division you will fit into). Don't go out and buy any gun for 3-gun without getting some competent advice from actual competitors (no, the gun counter guy at WalMart does not count).
Too many folks on this site get so intimidated by 3-gun that they never get around to trying it for themselves - they always find a way to make excuses for procrastinating (wrong equipment, not ready etc.). Read the basics, come shoot a match and start accumulating experience. Don't stress about getting disqualified - just go SLOW first time and focus on being safe... speed will come in time, and you will find the learning curve is exceedingly steep for most.
Do you own a centerfire semi-auto rifle, a repeating shotgun (pump or auto), and a handgun (pistol or revolver) plus holster ? If so, you can shoot 3-gun. Please do not get all vapor-locked with the "must have the right equipment" mindset... just run what you brung. If you lack one of these guns, ask here before buying anything; we only need to know your budget and what division you prefer to shoot in (or just tell us what other guns you have and we can tell you which division you will fit into). Don't go out and buy any gun for 3-gun without getting some competent advice from actual competitors (no, the gun counter guy at WalMart does not count).
Too many folks on this site get so intimidated by 3-gun that they never get around to trying it for themselves - they always find a way to make excuses for procrastinating (wrong equipment, not ready etc.). Read the basics, come shoot a match and start accumulating experience. Don't stress about getting disqualified - just go SLOW first time and focus on being safe... speed will come in time, and you will find the learning curve is exceedingly steep for most.
This is the truth. I shoot an old Colt AR15A2 (20'' barrel, iron sights), a remington 870 that was formerly owned by a sheriffs department, and whatever glock my dad has ammo for.
I've gotten much, much better at reloading the shotgun. With some exceptions, I am getting pretty good at long range rifle. In pistol competitions, I'm now at the point where I rarely miss, and should start considering speeding things up a bit.
Use what you have. Have fun.
5/25/2011 9:34:31 AM
I just shot my 2nd 3 Gun match this last Saturday. It's definitely a LOT of fun. The advice given here is excellent: go slow! Go slow and make hits count; you'll do better than you think.
Can't wait for the next match!
Can't wait for the next match!
5/25/2011 9:39:51 AM
"""""""Use what you have. Have fun. """"""""""""
You nailed that one!!!!
true words,,, so many folks are worried about this that and the other thing,,,
GO and have fun,, and If you want to be more competitve,, do so, if you like to shoot and have alot more fun that,, just shooting a bullseye at paper targets, 3 gun is for you!
You nailed that one!!!!
true words,,, so many folks are worried about this that and the other thing,,,
GO and have fun,, and If you want to be more competitve,, do so, if you like to shoot and have alot more fun that,, just shooting a bullseye at paper targets, 3 gun is for you!
5/25/2011 10:09:53 AM
I would suggest some single gun type first. (IDPA, USPSA, Rifle Matches, Shotgun only)
1. they cost less.
2. easier on you as you only worry about 1 firearm.
3. get your feet wet have fun. forget about scores just yet.
4. don't shoot yourself and esp don't shoot the RO.
1. they cost less.
2. easier on you as you only worry about 1 firearm.
3. get your feet wet have fun. forget about scores just yet.
4. don't shoot yourself and esp don't shoot the RO.
5/25/2011 12:02:19 PM
Some folks suggest going to 'watch' first but I don't think you learn very much from that experience...you can watch someone ride a bike all day but you learn much faster by doing it yourself.
Once you get there, just tell the match organizer that you're new and haven't done this before. Same thing with the RO in your squad, just tell him you havent shot competition before and 99/100 they'll help you out.
If you don't understand something, ask questions.
Ask them to explain the range commands.
Don't load anything until they tell you to.
Immediately after you finish shooting the stage and clear your weapons, take a quick walk around and look at the targets (ie, before they get taped/reset). Did you hit where you thought you did?
As for equipment, just show up with what you've got (holster, eyepro, earpro, spare magazines), zero your rifle and understand basic bullet drop, shoot slow and deliberately and be safe. Don't be all froggy and try to go fast.
Don't buy anything yet, use what you already have and then you can decide what you think you're missing later.
Once you get there, just tell the match organizer that you're new and haven't done this before. Same thing with the RO in your squad, just tell him you havent shot competition before and 99/100 they'll help you out.
If you don't understand something, ask questions.
Ask them to explain the range commands.
Don't load anything until they tell you to.
Immediately after you finish shooting the stage and clear your weapons, take a quick walk around and look at the targets (ie, before they get taped/reset). Did you hit where you thought you did?
As for equipment, just show up with what you've got (holster, eyepro, earpro, spare magazines), zero your rifle and understand basic bullet drop, shoot slow and deliberately and be safe. Don't be all froggy and try to go fast.
Don't buy anything yet, use what you already have and then you can decide what you think you're missing later.
5/25/2011 12:12:27 PM
Originally Posted By Observer:
Some folks suggest going to 'watch' first but I don't think you learn very much from that experience...you can watch someone ride a bike all day but you learn much faster by doing it yourself.
Once you get there, just tell the match organizer that you're new and haven't done this before. Same thing with the RO in your squad, just tell him you havent shot competition before and 99/100 they'll help you out.
If you don't understand something, ask questions.
Ask them to explain the range commands.
Don't load anything until they tell you to.
Immediately after you finish shooting the stage and clear your weapons, take a quick walk around and look at the targets (ie, before they get taped/reset). Did you hit where you thought you did?
As for equipment, just show up with what you've got (holster, eyepro, earpro, spare magazines), zero your rifle and understand basic bullet drop, shoot slow and deliberately and be safe. Don't be all froggy and try to go fast.
Don't buy anything yet, use what you already have and then you can decide what you think you're missing later.
Some folks suggest going to 'watch' first but I don't think you learn very much from that experience...you can watch someone ride a bike all day but you learn much faster by doing it yourself.
Once you get there, just tell the match organizer that you're new and haven't done this before. Same thing with the RO in your squad, just tell him you havent shot competition before and 99/100 they'll help you out.
If you don't understand something, ask questions.
Ask them to explain the range commands.
Don't load anything until they tell you to.
Immediately after you finish shooting the stage and clear your weapons, take a quick walk around and look at the targets (ie, before they get taped/reset). Did you hit where you thought you did?
As for equipment, just show up with what you've got (holster, eyepro, earpro, spare magazines), zero your rifle and understand basic bullet drop, shoot slow and deliberately and be safe. Don't be all froggy and try to go fast.
Don't buy anything yet, use what you already have and then you can decide what you think you're missing later.
your last two lines,, hit the nail on the head,,,
I know a guy that wrote a book, on 3 gun and how to decide on equipment, and set it up.
me
5/25/2011 1:01:38 PM
Get out there an have fun.
Be safe and take your time. No one expects new shooters to come out smoke the stages. They will appreciate a safe shooter who is interested in learning.
Let the RO and Match Director know you are new, and ask to be paired with an experienced shooter. They can show you the ropes.
I have attended 4 or 5 matches and have not DQ'd YET. Everyone will sooner or later. As much fun as it is, safety first.
Also, check out Enos' forum for more 3gun info. http://www.brianenos.com/forums/index.php?
5/26/2011 12:14:31 AM
Originally Posted By Gregory_K:
I would suggest some single gun type first. (IDPA, USPSA, Rifle Matches, Shotgun only)
I would suggest some single gun type first. (IDPA, USPSA, Rifle Matches, Shotgun only)
Also, I will suggest NOT waiting for a big match as your 1st match. Although newcomers are welcome, big matches (like, Texas Multigun/Larue) do not have time to coach new shooters. It is better to learn a bit about moving and shooting with a timer running before you put up big bucks. The Texas Multigun monthly matches run a little slower and we can coach some.
There was a match in Stephenville; you might contact them to see when they will do it again.
5/26/2011 10:42:01 AM
Have you shot any type of match before?
If not, I would echo the suggestion of shooting at an IPSC or IDPA match first.
I think it would be a little overwhelming to make a three-gun match your first ever match, but
if that is all you have, I wouldn't hesitate to shoot it.
If not, I would echo the suggestion of shooting at an IPSC or IDPA match first.
I think it would be a little overwhelming to make a three-gun match your first ever match, but
if that is all you have, I wouldn't hesitate to shoot it.
5/26/2011 10:48:12 AM
I shot a 3 gun match before shooting anything else.
As long as your are familiar with the operation of your guns and practice safe gun handling, I think you will be fine. (Just my experience)
I found the scoring in 3 gun to be much easier to understand than IDPA. (this may differ by 3-gun match though)
5/26/2011 10:49:00 AM
If you can find the small Local 3 gun match. you are in luck. they are low key, and low match fee. so you can get up to speed and learn the ropes.
Paying $250 match fee.. for your first 3 gun match. is steep.
I do like going to the big matchs, you will see all of the top shooters. you see on TV, it is cool!
Paying $250 match fee.. for your first 3 gun match. is steep.
I do like going to the big matchs, you will see all of the top shooters. you see on TV, it is cool!
5/26/2011 11:05:50 AM
Originally Posted By morrisammo_1:
If you can find the small Local 3 gun match. you are in luck. they are low key, and low match fee. so you can get up to speed and learn the ropes.
Paying $250 match fee.. for your first 3 gun match. is steep.
I do like going to the big matchs, you will see all of the top shooters. you see on TV, it is cool!
If you can find the small Local 3 gun match. you are in luck. they are low key, and low match fee. so you can get up to speed and learn the ropes.
Paying $250 match fee.. for your first 3 gun match. is steep.
I do like going to the big matchs, you will see all of the top shooters. you see on TV, it is cool!
Agree. I loved watching the shooters while RO'ing LaRue.
I also felt really bad for the guy that DQ'd on his first stage and was done for the weekend. Much easier to swallow a $30 DQ than a $250 one.
5/26/2011 11:10:29 AM
In our RO squad shoot weekend, we had two guys, that were new as well.
tough Learning curve. They were good guys. but that was alot of shooting to try and fit in.
and the place was much prettyer,,, the next weekend with the tents and BBQ!!!! and all that.
Good stuff.
I'm shooting Cove this weekend, it is the match I started. years ago. low key. free hotdogs. good folks.
tough Learning curve. They were good guys. but that was alot of shooting to try and fit in.
and the place was much prettyer,,, the next weekend with the tents and BBQ!!!! and all that.
Good stuff.
I'm shooting Cove this weekend, it is the match I started. years ago. low key. free hotdogs. good folks.
5/26/2011 11:14:56 AM
OP, not sure where you are in Texas, but there is a Benefit match (3 gun and pistol) on Saturday in Liberty Hill.
Chance to shoot a match and hep a fellow shooter in a time of need. (unfortunately I have to work this weekend)
5/26/2011 11:55:46 AM
I got a raffle,,, tick last week,,
I'm sure we know eachother,,, seeing I was an RO for the LaRue match, too,
more matches than I can,, attend!!
not a bad thing,,
jim
I worked stage 2,, and made the Mortar.
I'm sure we know eachother,,, seeing I was an RO for the LaRue match, too,
more matches than I can,, attend!!
not a bad thing,,
jim
I worked stage 2,, and made the Mortar.
5/26/2011 12:19:11 PM
Too many matches is a problem I will take anyday.
Did not realize who you were Jim. This is Alden (tall guy from your squad last weekend)
I picked up a couple raffle tickets as well. I know I won't win, but wanted to help out.
Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile
Did not realize who you were Jim. This is Alden (tall guy from your squad last weekend)
I picked up a couple raffle tickets as well. I know I won't win, but wanted to help out.
Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile
5/26/2011 12:52:59 PM
How funny the small world we live in!
5/26/2011 3:01:37 PM
We are getting a lot of new shooters into 3 gun in Az. Here are some observations of common issues:
Make sure your rifle and shotgun are zeroed before you go. Zero them again.
Understand the range commands before shooting
Ruthlessly maintain muzzle awareness at all times
Do not try to emulate the speed that you see from the more experienced shooters or even the inexperienced shooters who are just flailing aorund. Shoot at a pace that you can guarantee good hits for EVERY shot.
Just because you have finished shooting a stage and are pumped up full of adrenaline does NOT mean that the safety rules have ceased to exist
Finger, trigger, NO. Unless engaging a target.
Ask questions.
Have fun, be safe (not in that order)
I too am a firm believer in running with what you have. It is obviously an equipment driven sport but equipment is strangely enough somewhat irrelevant as long as it works. Shooting skill and stage strategy are what wins: not this or that optic, or this or that comp, or this or that trigger. We all have our favorite stuff and that's great but equipment will not get you there. Don't buy stuff until you've competed a little bit EXCEPT I strongly recommend that you have a good holster with adequate retention not some Uncle Mikes Sidekick kind of thing.
Make sure your rifle and shotgun are zeroed before you go. Zero them again.
Understand the range commands before shooting
Ruthlessly maintain muzzle awareness at all times
Do not try to emulate the speed that you see from the more experienced shooters or even the inexperienced shooters who are just flailing aorund. Shoot at a pace that you can guarantee good hits for EVERY shot.
Just because you have finished shooting a stage and are pumped up full of adrenaline does NOT mean that the safety rules have ceased to exist
Finger, trigger, NO. Unless engaging a target.
Ask questions.
Have fun, be safe (not in that order)
I too am a firm believer in running with what you have. It is obviously an equipment driven sport but equipment is strangely enough somewhat irrelevant as long as it works. Shooting skill and stage strategy are what wins: not this or that optic, or this or that comp, or this or that trigger. We all have our favorite stuff and that's great but equipment will not get you there. Don't buy stuff until you've competed a little bit EXCEPT I strongly recommend that you have a good holster with adequate retention not some Uncle Mikes Sidekick kind of thing.
5/27/2011 2:35:37 AM
i know of one in dallas but i want to go to the next one cause i dont have my spikes yet and my sidearm holster
5/27/2011 2:20:54 PM
Originally Posted By bt2009:
i know of one in dallas but i want to go to the next one cause i dont have my spikes yet and my sidearm holster
i know of one in dallas but i want to go to the next one cause i dont have my spikes yet and my sidearm holster
Do you have ANY semi-auto rifle ? Can you get hold of a $15 molded kydex holster ? Then go - you could delay indefinitely for not having the perfect equipent.
5/27/2011 6:08:26 PM
I showed up to my first match with an AR, browning auto 5,a ruger p89 and a buch of molle pouches.
Go with what you got.
Go with what you got.
