Welcome, Greenhorns!
Info for New Shooters
Saddle up and join the Bitterroot Buckaroos! Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or brand new to the Old West, we’ll help you get started with cowboy action shooting in Montana.
What is Cowboy Action Shooting?
Step Into the Old West
Cowboy action shooting is a friendly, fast-paced sport where you’ll dress in western gear, shoot authentic-style firearms, and enjoy a day of laughter and camaraderie. No experience? No problem—our club is all about welcoming new faces! No horse? No problem–we do all our shooting with both feet safely on the ground.
We highly recommend you come to a match and talk to experienced shooters about equipment and leather. It will save you money in the long run.
We shoot under the rules and procedures established by the Single Action Shooting Society SASS. https://sassnet.com/
To compete you’ll need 2 single action revolvers, a pistol caliber lever or slide action rifle, and a side by side (no ejectors), lever action, or 1897 Winchester shotgun.
All ammunition must use lead bullets/lead birdshot, and fall within SASS guidelines.
Typical monthly matches consist of 6 stages, requiring minimum 60 rifle, 60 pistol, and a box or more of shotshells.
Sign up starts at 9:30 AM, and mandatory shooter’s meeting is at 10:00 AM. Matches are open to the public. Monthly match fee for members is $10. Guests shoot for $15. Kids under 18 shoot free when accompanied by a shooting adult.
In addition…
Selecting an Alias: One of the unique and fun aspects of CAS is selecting a cowboy alias. An alias can be appropriate to a character or profession of the Old West era, a Hollywood western, a character from western fiction- even a combination or an avenue to pay homage to your region, individual roots and family history. Become a member of SASS and you can register your alias with SASS making it exclusively yours. https://sassnet.com/about-sass/choosing-a-sass-alias
Clothing: If you are going to shoot cowboy guns, you need to look the part. Minimal costuming requirements can be as simple as a basic pair of pants, a pair of cowboy boots, a basic leather belt, a button up western shirt, and a cowboy hat. Women can wear the same or wear skirts and dresses. Many people get immersed in the costuming and wear authentic period correct uniforms or Victorian era dress. Some shooting categories have specific clothing requirements. No t-shirts, tennis shoes, tank tops or Velcro.
Winter Clothing Rules: We all want to shoot, but not if we are cold. During the cold spells in the winter we relax the costuming rules in favor of warm boots etc.
Why Join the Bitterroot Buckaroos?
We’re more than just a shooting club—we’re a community! Here’s what members can expect:
• Lower shooting fees
• Supportive mentors
• Loaner gear for beginners
• A fun day of shooting
• Safety-first environment
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions before your first match? We’ve got answers to help you hit the ground running! Email us and let us know you are coming and we will help answer any questions:
Bitterroot Buckaroos @ gmail . com
What do I need to bring to my first match?
Just bring yourself, a sense of humor, and any western attire you have! You don’t need to have all your firearms to get started. Bring what you have with the appropriate lead ammunition (no jacketed rounds), and we’ll get you started.
Is cowboy action shooting safe for beginners?
Absolutely! Safety is our top priority. All new shooters receive a safety briefing and are guided by experienced mentors.
Do I need to be a member to try a match?
You’re welcome to participate as a guest. If you love it (and we think you will!), you can join the club anytime.
Ready to Ride?
Join the Bitterroot Buckaroos
Check out our membership options.