COWBOY ACTION SHOOTING™

Copyright© Single Action Shooting Society, Inc. 2022 Version 26.2 i

Wild Bunch Handbook

JOINING SASS ........................................................................................................................1

SASS MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS .........................................................................................1

SELECTING A SASS ALIAS .................................................................................................1

COWBOY ACTION SHOOTING™ .................................................................................2

CLOTHING & ACCOUTREMENTS .....................................................................................2

EYE & EAR PROTECTION .....................................................................................................2

HOLSTERS, CARTRIDGE BELTS, & BANDOLEERS .....................................................2

OUTLAWED ITEMS .................................................................................................................. 4

SASS AFFILIATED CLUBS ..................................................................................................... 4

SECTION 2 – SHOOTING CATEGORIES ............................................................................ 5

OPEN AGE CATEGORIES.......................................................................................................... 5

AGE BASED CATEGORIES ....................................................................................................... 5

SHOOTING STYLE CATEGORIES .......................................................................................... 6

COSTUME CATEGORIES ........................................................................................................... 7

BLACKPOWDER SHOOTING CATEGORIES........................................................................ 9

CATEGORY MATRIX .................................................................................................................... 10

MINIMUM ENTRANT CATEGORY MANDATES .....................................................................10

SPIRIT OF THE GAME .................................................................................................................... 11

PARTICIPANT CONDUCT ............................................................................................................. 11

STAGE CONVENTIONS .................................................................................................................... 13

FIREARM CONVENTIONS ............................................................................................................... 13

Safety & Handling Conventions – Rifles .......................................................................... 14

SAFETY ..................................................................................................................................................... 17

MATCH PROCEDURES & STANDARDS ........................................................................................... 19

AMMUNITION COVENANTS .................................................................................................................. 25

THE PLAINSMAN............................................................................................................................................29

POCKET PISTOLS AND DERRINGERS................................................................................................. ..29

LONG RANGE (OR PRECISION) RIFLE ................................................................................................   29

ALL FIREARMS ............................................................................................................................................. 32

SIGHTS ............................................................................................................................................................. 34

COSMETIC EMBELLISHMENT ................................................................................................................ ....35

SCREWS ............................................................................................................................................................ 36

FRAMES AND RECEIVERS ........................................................................................................................... 36

LEVERS .............................................................................................................................................................. 36

FEED / LOADING MECHANISMS ................................................................................................................ 37

FIRING PINS ..................................................................................................................................................... 37

RECOIL REDUCERS ....................................................................................................................................... 37

REVOLVERS ..................................................................................................................................................... 37

SHOTGUNS ........................................................................................................................................................ 38

RIFLES ..................................................................................................................................................................39

OTHER APPROVED FIREARMS .................................................................................................................. 39

SECTION 9 – GLOSSARY OF TERMS ....................................................................................................... 42

- Travel, rental car, and hotel discounts.

- Subscription to The Cowboy Chronicle.

- The alias must be "printable" before a wide audience (family friendly!).

- Adding "II", "2", or "Too" is not accepted.

- "Ranger" could become "Texas Ranger," but not "The Ranger". "John Henry Chisum" could be modified to "Jack Chisum," but not "Jon Henry Chisum."

- Historical names may not be modified to make them different. "Wyatt Earp" and "Marshal Wyatt Earp" are considered the same.

Cowboy Action Shooting™ is a combination of historical reenactment and Saturday morning at the matinee. Participants may choose the style of costume they wish to wear, but all clothing must be typical of the late 19th century, a B-Western movie, or Western television series.

- All handguns must be carried in a safe holster capable of retaining the firearm throughout a normal range of motion.

- Main match holsters must be located one on each side of the belly button and separated by at least the width of two fists at the belt. (Note: Pocket pistol and derringer holsters are not "main match" holsters)

- Holsters may not depart from the vertical by more than 30º when worn.

- Although cross draw and shoulder holsters are legal, extreme care must be exercised when drawing a firearm from a cross draw or shoulder holster or retuning the firearm to leather. The user must "twist" their body, if necessary, to ensure the muzzle never breaks the 170° safety rule during the process.

- When drawing a revolver, the muzzle may be oriented into the straight down (180°) as it clears leather; but must then go immediately into the downrange 170° (and vice versa on the return). These restrictions against breaking the downrange 180° angle apply to all holsters and methods of draw/re-holster. This allowance applies to all types/styles of holsters, from canted double strong side to cross draw, to shoulder/Huckleberry rigs.

- During the course of fire, the shooter must be given the ability to draw and holster revolvers from approved/legal holsters and the ability to retrieve and return vertically staged double-barreled shotguns without penalty.

- Any firearm that breaks the 170° safety rule will result in a Stage Disqualification.

- Bandoleers, cartridge belts, and pouches must be of traditional design (e.g., bandoleers must be loose and not secured in any way to prevent movement). Modern drop pouches, combat style shotgun loops, wrist or forearm bandoleers, and such are not allowed.

- Pouches shall have a flap and must carry their contents loose, with no special provisions to organize the contents for rapid retrieval.

- Cartridge loops must not have a metal or plastic liner. However, the entire loop may be made of metal.

- Ammunition required for loading/reloading during the course of any stage must be carried on the shooter’s person, in a bandoleer, cartridge/shot shell belt loop, holster cartridge loop, pouch, pocket, or be safely staged as required by stage instructions.

- Use of ammo from cartridge loops mounted on a firearm’s stock or forearm is not allowed.

- No ammunition may be carried in the mouth, ears, nose, cleavage, or any other bodily orifice.

- Leather belt slide ammo loops are acceptable; however, shotgun shell slides may not be worn over shotgun loops on an ammo belt.

- Ammunition belts must be worn so all ammo is positioned at or below the belly button.

- Shotgun ammo loops may not accommodate more than two rounds per loop, and rifle/revolver ammo loops shall accommodate only one round per loop.

- Shotgun Ammo loops must conform to the shooters contour (i.e., not tilt out from the belt).

- Rifle/Revolver loops cannot be affixed to shotgun loops.

Note: Any ammo carried to the stage in an illegal/unapproved manner that is actually used for stage reloads falls under the "Use of illegally acquired ammunition" penalties.

- Modern shooting gloves

- Short sleeve shirts (male competitors only)

- Short sleeve tee shirts, long sleeve tee shirts, and tank tops for all competitors.

- Designer jeans are not allowed. Designer jeans include modern jeans that have slogans or logos embroidered, silk screened, and such, saying things like "PINK" or "BABY." Jeans with fancy or flashy adornments are acceptable.

- All types of athletic shoes or combat boots, no matter the material from which they are constructed.

- Nylon, plastic, or Velcro accoutrements.

- The displaying of any manufacturer’s, sponsor’s, or team logos on apparel. (Manufacturer’s labels on such apparel or equipment are acceptable)

SASS Affiliated Clubs are the backbone of SASS and the sport of Cowboy Action Shooting™. SASS Clubs are numerous — located in every state in the nation as well as 15 foreign countries. These clubs are your local resource and facilitator of monthly and annual matches for Cowboy Action Shooting™. SASS Clubs foster the organized growth of the sport in a manner consistent with all SASS rules and regulations. SASS Affiliation ensures no matter where your travels take you, you know exactly what to expect in terms of safety and consistency in enjoying the sport. Finding a local SASS Club near you is the first step in your journey of exploring Cowboy Action Shooting™. You’ll meet amazing people, receive a warm welcome, and all the advice for which a new member and shooter could ask! To find a local club near you and to review their monthly shooting schedules, please visit our website at www.sassnet.com.

SASS recognizes shooting categories based upon age, gender, costuming, equipment, shooting style, and/or propellant. The age for a competitor is determined by their age on the first day the match starts. All SASS categories are open gender categories (there are no men’s categories). Base categories may be subdivided by gender to establish categories for women only. Age, gender, and residency are all to be confirmed/determined by the declaration on the individual’s state issued driver’s license or ID. Competitors may compete within any category for which they qualify. Each category has a set of standard regulations the competitor must follow in order to "stay in category" during the match.

- May use any main match revolver.

- Revolvers may be shot in any SASS legal shooting style – EXCEPT Gunfighter.

- May use any SASS legal ammunition.

- Cowboy — any age.

- Cowgirl — any age.

- May use any main match revolver.

- Revolvers may be shot in any SASS legal shooting style – EXCEPT Gunfighter.

1. - Buckaroo/Buckarette: 13 and under. o Buckaroo/Buckarette competitors must use revolvers, rifles, and shotguns meeting the external standards but may be chambered in .22 LR for revolvers and rifles and .410 caliber, 28 ,or 32 gauge shotguns.
2. o Standard velocity ammunition for these firearms must be used.
3. o Knockdown targets are not required to fall for Buckaroo category shooters. A hit will be scored as long as the target is clearly hit.
4. o An alternate target must be provided for all aerial shotgun targets for Buckaroo category competitors.
5. o Buckaroo category competitors choosing to use center-fire ammunition in handguns and/or rifles must meet all center-fire power factor and velocity requirements.
6. o Caution is urged in allowing competitors under 14. Local laws, regulations, and insurance requirements may prevent matches from offering some age groups.
7.  
8. - Junior Boy/Junior Girl: 16 and under.

- Wrangler/Lady Wrangler: Age 36 and up.

- Forty-Niner/Lady Forty-Niner: Age 49 and up.

- Senior/Lady Senior: Age 60 and up.

- Duelist – Duelist style is defined as shooting a revolver cocked and fired one-handed and unsupported. The revolver, hand, or shooting arm may not be touched by the offhand except when resolving a malfunctioning revolver problem or when transferring the revolver from one hand to the other.

- Duelists may shoot one revolver right-handed and one revolver left-handed in what is commonly referred to as "Double Duelist". Double Duelist is NOT a standalone shooting category.

1. - Duelist Rules: o Any main match, fixed sight model revolver may be used.
2. o Any SASS legal main match shotgun and legal main match rifle may be used.
3. o Any SASS legal ammunition may be used.
4. o Only duelist style or double duelist style may be used.
5. o The competitor shall not have two loaded revolvers in hand at once. (This may be corrected before cocking either one without penalty.)
6. o Cross-draw holsters are allowed by any competitor shooting Duelist/Double Duelist style in any category.
7.  

- Gunfighter style is defined as shooting with a revolver in each hand. Revolvers must be cocked and fired one handed, unsupported, one right-handed and the other left-handed. There is no set pattern as to how the revolvers are to be fired, but alternating revolvers is clearly the most efficient.

• - Gunfighter Rules: o Any main match fixed sight revolver may be used.
• o Only Gunfighter style or Double Duelist style may be used.
• o Any SASS legal main match shotgun and legal main match rifle may be used.
• o Any SASS legal ammunition may be used.

1. o Two holsters are required, one on each side.
2. o Gunfighter style category competitors are allowed two loaded revolvers "in hand" at the same time.
3. o Gunfighter style competitors are prohibited from utilizing a simultaneous "double cross draw" method of drawing or holstering revolvers.
4. o Gunfighter style competitors must shoot FIVE rounds with each hand – regardless of how they are drawn from leather.
5. o The revolvers must never be held in an unsafe manner (e.g., one revolver behind the other)
6. o When a stage calls for 10 revolver rounds in a single sequence or the use of only one revolver for the stage, the Gunfighter may draw both revolvers and engage the targets. The Gunfighter shall shoot the targets in exactly the same sequence as prescribed in the stage scenario.
7. o A Gunfighter may utilize any sequence that is available for use by any other shooting category.
8. o Stage instructions that specify separate revolvers such as "first pistol/second pistol," "left revolver/right revolver," or "with each handgun" are interpreted as "1st five shots/2nd five shots" when shooting Gunfighter style.
9. o Both revolvers may be cocked at the same time but must be shot one at a time to facilitate scoring.
10. o A Gunfighter may not holster revolvers with the intent to engage another revolver sequence.
11. o Stage design may allow a competitor shooting Gunfighter style to stage or restage revolvers between target sequences. If the shooter’s hands are otherwise constrained (e.g., rolling the dice between revolver sequences), the revolvers must be drawn and shot one at a time (double duelist) unless they can be safely staged rather than holstered. In this case, both revolvers may be employed at the same time for the first five rounds, safely restaged, and then employed at the same time again for the second five rounds.
12.  

- Any main match fixed sight revolver may be used.

- Revolvers must be shot Duelist or Double Duelist style. See Duelist description for required shooting technique.

- Rifles: Any 1873 or earlier manufacture SASS legal rifle or a replica thereof (e.g., 1866 Winchester, 1860 Henry, 1873 Winchester).

- Revolver and Rifle Calibers: .40 caliber or larger, rimmed cartridges. Examples include, but are not limited to, .38-40, .44 Special, .44 Russian, .44 Mag., .44-40, .45 Schofield, .45 Colt, or .36 caliber or larger cap and ball.

- May use any SASS legal ammunition as long as it adheres to the above caliber restrictions.

- Shotguns: SASS legal external hammer double barrel, single shot, or lever actions. External-hammer double barrel shotguns must have manually

• - Must choose at least five of the requirements listed below, and all clothing items must be worn appropriately during all shooting events and awards ceremonies. o Chaps, western spurs with rowels and spur straps, cuffs, tie or scarf worn loosely around the neck or with scarf slide, vest, pocket watch with full length chain, jacket, sleeve garters, knife (screw knives do NOT qualify), botas, leggings, or braces.
• o No Straw or Palm hats allowed.
•  
• - In addition to the above items, ladies may choose from the items listed below in order to compete within this category: Period watch, split riding skirt, bustle, hoops, corset, Victorian style hat (straw allowed), period jewelry, period hair ornaments (e.g., feathers), snood, reticule (period handbag), period lace up shoes, camisole, bloomers, fishnet stockings, feather boa, or cape.
• - No Buscadero or drop holster rigs allowed (i.e., part of the grip must be above the belt on which the holster hangs).
• - Boots are required and must be of traditional design with non-grip enhancing (i.e., NO "Lug") soles.
• - Moccasins are not allowed.
• - Hats must be worn for the entire match.

- Any main match revolver may be used.

- Revolvers may be shot in any SASS legal shooting style, at the shooter’s discretion.

- Rifles: Any SASS legal rifle of 1880 or later design or a replica thereof (e.g., Burgess, Lightning Rifle, 1892, 1894 Winchester or Marlin).

- Any SASS legal shotgun may be used.

- Any SASS legal ammunition may be used.

- Buscadero holster rigs or drop holster rigs are required. All revolvers must be carried below the top of the gun belt.

- All belt and holster rigs must be embellished (fancy stitching, Conchos, spots, or tooling).

- Shirts must be of the "B-Western" style with snap buttons or any of the following: "Smiley Pockets," embroidery, appliques, fringe, or different colored yokes.

- Pants must be jeans, ranch pants, or pants with flap over the rear pocket, keystone belt loops, and/or piping or fringe.

- Pants suspenders are not allowed.

- Hats must be worn and must be felt hats only. No straw or palm leaf hats allowed.

- Boots are required and must be of traditional design and embellished with fancy stitching, multi-color fancy design, Conchos, or spots. Soles must be non-grip enhancing (i.e., NO Lug soles). Lace up boots and Moccasins are not allowed.

- Western spurs with rowels and spur straps are required for men.

- You must choose at least one or more of the following optional items: gloves or gauntlets, scarves with slides or tied around the neck or bolo tie, coat, vest, chaps, or cuffs.

- Costumes that depict leading role characters in B-Western movies are allowed as long as the costume is complete with all accessories, but the costuming must still adhere to the boot, leather, spur, hat, and firearm requirements. John Wayne, spaghetti western, and townsperson characters are not acceptable.

- All costumes are expected to be fancy and flashy. The "B-Western" costuming must be worn during the entire match and awards ceremony with the exception of evening formal occasions.

- Any main match fixed sight model revolver

- Revolvers may be shot two handed or one handed (Duelist style) in Frontier Cartridge category but only one handed in Frontier Cartridge Duelist category. (See Duelist style description for parameters.)

- If shooting Frontier Cartridge Gunfighter, only Gunfighter-style or Double Duelist style may be used. (See Gunfighter style description for parameters.)

- Must use blackpowder in all loads (rifle, revolver, and shotgun)

- Must use a side-by-side, single shot, or lever action shotgun in the main match stages.

- Frontier Cartridge competitors may use any SASS legal firearms and propellants in team and side matches.

- Any main match percussion revolver with fixed sights.

- Revolvers must be shot Duelist or Double Duelist style. See Duelist description for required shooting technique.

- Must use blackpowder in all loads (rifle, revolver, and shotgun).

- Must use a side-by-side, single shot, or lever action shotgun in the main match stages.

- Gunfighter → Lady Senior Gunfighter → Lady Senior Frontier Cartridge Gunfighter.

- Duelist → Lady Duelist → Lady Senior Duelist → Lady Silver Senior Duelist.

*Shooting categories offered at any match are ultimately at the discretion of the Match Officials to ensure the success and viability of each match individually.

- Treat and respect every firearm as if it were loaded.

- Safe firearm handling is the shooter’s responsibility. Refer to the Safety section for all firearm handling safety rules.

- All shooters must demonstrate rudimentary familiarity and proficiency with the firearms being used. Shooters are expected to perform within their capabilities at all times.

- Movement is not allowed with a loaded round under the hammer of any firearm. Movement is defined by the basketball "traveling" rule. Whenever a shooter has a loaded round under the hammer of a firearm in hand, at least one foot must remain in place on the ground. The first violation will result in a Stage Disqualification penalty. The second violation will result in a Match Disqualification penalty assessment. Note: Shuffling the feet to maintain balance or adjust the shooting stance is allowed as long as the shooter does not actually change location.

- Leaving the Loading Area with a cocked/loaded Rifle: In such instances, the shooter will be directed to point the rifle safely downrange, bring the hammer to full cock if it is in the half-cock/safety position, then pull the trigger. If no round is fired, the shooter will be directed to finish staging firearms in order to start the stage (No Call). If a round fires when the shooter pulls the trigger, the shooter will be assessed a STAGE DQ and directed to proceed to the unloading table.

- "Shooting on the move" or "step shooting" is expressly disallowed. See rules for the safe condition of firearms for movement.

- Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in the range area for all shooters, guests, range officers, and others, until all shooting is done for the day. No shooter may consume any alcoholic beverage until he or she has completed all of their shooting for the day and stored their firearms.

- No shooter may ingest any substance that will affect his or her ability to participate with a maximum state of awareness and in a completely safe manner. Both prescription and non-prescription pharmaceuticals that may cause drowsiness or any other physical or mental impairment must be avoided.

- The Shooter must obey all range commands given by the Timer Operator.

- Once a shooter is committed to the stage (when the first round actually leaves the barrel) the shooter must remain on the stage until it is completed, and the shooter has moved to the unloading area to clear all firearms.

- Any shooter, guest, or match official who uses foul language, is disrespectful, offensive, rude, or becomes belligerent or threatening in any manner will be disqualified from the event and, at the discretion of the Match Director, may be required to leave the property.

- Good Sportsmanship best defines "The Spirit of the Game." Be a good sport. Have fun.

A "failure to engage" penalty occurs when a competitor willfully or intentionally disregards the stage instructions in order to obtain a competitive advantage and is not assessed simply because a competitor "makes a mistake." A "failure to engage" applies only to non-shooting situations such as refusing to rope a steer, throw a stick of dynamite, or otherwise make an attempt to complete any other non-shooting procedure written within the stage instructions. In such case, a 30-second "failure to engage" penalty is assessed in addition to any penalties for misses, procedurals, or minor safety infractions-.

The following stage conventions (stage defaults) should be followed in all SASS matches, unless otherwise directed in the stage descriptions.

- All shotgun knockdown targets may be reengaged until down.

1. - All knockdown targets (shotgun, rifle, or revolver) must go down to count. o Any knockdown target still standing once the shooter has engaged the next sequence of the stage will be counted as a miss.
2. o EXCEPTION: For Buckaroo/Buckarette shooters knockdown targets do not have to go down to count.
3.  
4. - If no starting position is given, the shooter shall stand upright with revolvers holstered, hands at the sides, and not touching any firearm. (SASS default).
5. - Cowboy port-arms is defined as standing upright with the butt of the long gun at or below the waist of the shooter, the muzzle at or above the shoulder, and the long gun held with both hands.
6. - In the event a target fails or is downed, the shooter should "shoot where it was." For safety reasons a target on the ground should never be engaged.
7. - In the case of a suspected squib, the TO will instruct the shooter to make the firearm safe and continue with the next firearm. If the barrel is later determined to be clear, the shooter will receive a reshoot.

- Six-shot revolvers may be loaded at the loading table with a maximum of five rounds and the hammer lowered and resting on the empty chamber.

- Five-shot revolvers may load five rounds, but the hammer must rest on a dummy chamber or safety slot/pin in the cylinder to avoid the hammer resting on a live round/cap.

- If a particular stage requires a one shot reload, the sixth chamber of percussion revolvers may be charged at the bench and then capped "on the clock" either before the first round is fired or after the last round is fired. A complete reload for percussion revolver shooters is handled by staging a loaded, uncapped revolver down range or switching uncapped cylinders and capping on the clock.

- Percussion revolvers must only be capped at the loading table or while on the course of fire. The cap over a nipple must never be seated using the percussion revolver’s own hammer. The Timer Operator (TO) shall require any misfires to be cleared on the firing line by either recapping and firing that chamber, or by uncapping the misfired chamber.

- A cocked revolver may never leave a shooters hand, including from one hand to the other. This does not apply when loading or reloading on the firing line.

- Cowboy Action Shooting is NOT a fast-draw competition. Any unsafe handling in the course of a draw from the holster or any "fanning" to shoot a revolver is strictly forbidden. Slip-hammering is not the same as fanning and is legal.

- Revolvers are drawn and used in accordance with the shooter’s category.

- Only Gunfighters and B-Western categories allow two loaded revolvers "in hand" at the same time. This may be corrected in regard to any other categories before cocking either one without penalty.

- Revolvers are returned to leather (re-holstered in a safe condition) at the conclusion of the shooting string, unless the stage description specifically directs otherwise (e.g., "move to the next position and set gun on table or prop"). A shooting string is defined as shots from one type of firearm prior to the next type of firearm engaged.

- No firearm may be decocked on the firing line to avoid a penalty if cocked at the wrong time, position or location once a round has gone downrange. Once a revolver is cocked, the round must be expended (shot). However, if a round has not gone downrange, and under the direction and supervision of the TO, the revolver may be decocked. This requires a positive indication/acknowledgement from the TO for the shooter to do so. (See also "Double Jeopardy" avoidance in Safety & Handling Conventions – All Firearms)

- When drawing a Revolver from its holster, the revolver may not be cocked until it is pointed safely downrange (at a 45° angle downrange).

- Hammer fully down on an expended round. A revolver may not be originally staged in this condition, but may be restaged in this condition.

- GUNFIGHTER shooting style considerations: When shooting Gunfighter style, a gunfighter may not holster revolvers with the intent to engage another sequence. (See Gunfighter Rules).

- Rifles may be staged with the magazine loaded, action closed, hammer fully down on the empty chamber (NOT the safety notch), with the muzzle pointing in a safe direction (adheres to the 170° rule).

- The muzzle is never initially staged on the ground.

- Rifles will be cleared and discarded with their barrels pointing in a safe direction. If the action of a rifle closes after being cleared, the shooter will, at the conclusion of the stage, show it to be clear to the TO. No person other than the competitor may handle the long gun prior to opening the action and showing it to be clear.

- If the rifle is the last firearm used (NOT recommended), it must be cleared prior to it leaving the shooters hand(s) at the unloading area. (This does not apply to firearms shot out of sequence, made safe, and then restaged for further use.)

- Once a rifle is cocked, either the round under the hammer must be expended (shot) or the action opened in order for the rifle to be returned to a safe condition.

- Hammer fully down on an empty chamber or spent round, action closed (restaged for further use).

- Shotguns are always staged open and empty and are loaded on the clock unless the stage begins with the shotgun in the shooter’s hands.

- Mule eared shotguns can be cocked at the beginning of a scenario, whether staged or in the shooters hands.

- Shotgun targets may be re-engaged until down, unless otherwise specified by the stage description.

- Shotgun shells may be removed without penalty to return the firearm to a safe condition.

- Shotguns will be cleared and discarded with their barrels pointing in a safe direction. If the action closes after being cleared, the shooter will, at the conclusion of the stage, show it to be clear to the TO. No person other than the competitor may handle the gun prior to opening the action and showing it to be clear.

- Hammer(s) fully down on an empty chamber(s) or expended round(s), action closed.

- All staged firearms must have their barrels pointed in a safe direction.

- All long guns initially staged on a horizontal surface shall be staged lying flat where at least the rear of the trigger guard is on the staging area.

- All handguns initially staged on a horizontal flat surface must be staged with the entire handgun on the staging surface.

- All firearms will remain unloaded except while under direct observation of a designated person on the firing line or in the designated loading and unloading areas.

- The muzzles of all long guns must be maintained in a safe direction at all times (generally "up" and slightly downrange).

- As long as the shooter has contact with the firearm, it is considered in their control.

- If a shooter trips and falls during the course of fire, provided no safety rules have been violated, the shooter will be allowed to regroup and continue the course of fire.

- Any unloaded firearm dropped during a stage will result in a Stage Disqualification penalty assessment. This does not apply to holstered revolvers that remain "in leather" in the event of an equipment failure (e.g., broken belt buckle) causing the gun belt or ammo belt to fall. Shooter may safely recover a fallen gun/ammo belt and continue finishing the stage without penalty or wait until finishing the stage for retrieval.

1. - Any dropped loaded firearm will result in a Match Disqualification penalty assessment. o A shooter should not be allowed to pick up a dropped firearm. The TO should recover the firearm, examine it, clear it (if necessary), return it to the shooter, and assess the appropriate penalty.
2. o This does not apply to holstered revolvers that remain "in leather" in the event of an equipment failure (e.g., broken belt buckle) causing the gun belt or ammo belt to fall. Shooter may safely recover a fallen gun/ammo belt and continue finishing the stage without penalty or wait until finishing the stage for retrieval.
3.  
4. - If a firearm is shot out of sequence or from the wrong position or location, the shooter will be assessed a single procedural penalty. In this situation, if the shooter elects or is forced to miss an appropriate target due to unsafe angles or target availability, a round may be reloaded to avoid a miss penalty assessment (the dreaded "Double Jeopardy" of a procedural and a miss). This does not mean a shooter may reload a rifle or revolver at any other time to make up a miss.
5. - In the event a shooter declares a malfunction, the shooter will be given the opportunity to make that firearm safe and continue on with the next procedure. The TO will allow the shooter to make the malfunctioning firearm safe- preferably on a nearby and appropriate horizontal surface (box, table, straw bale, ground, etc.) or, if necessary, assist the shooter by allowing them to hand off the firearm. Multiple malfunctions by a shooter will be cause for the TO to request the shooter change firearms.
6. - If a competitor has a firearm malfunction that cannot be cleared during the course of fire, the shooter may not leave the firing line until the firearm has been cleared. A Match Disqualification penalty will be assessed to the shooter if they leave the firing line with the malfunctioning firearm unless under the direct supervision of a Match official.
7. - Long guns will be emptied and discarded with their barrels pointed safely downrange. This condition may be corrected on the clock, prior to the next round being fired. If the long gun is not discarded empty prior to the next firearm being fired, only the shooter may return to open and/or clear the firearm at the end of the stage under the observation of the TO. Should an empty casing/hull be ejected

1. or found in the action or chamber, or a live round on the carrier of an open action, a Minor Safety Violation (MSV) will be assessed. However, if the action is opened, and a live/unfired round is ejected, a Stage DQ (SDQ) will be assessed for a long gun with a "live round under a cocked hammer having left the shooter’s hands". In this case, there is no opportunity to correct this condition before firing the next firearm, as the penalty takes effect upon leaving the shooter’s hands. o If the long gun is the last firearm used, it must be cleared prior to it leaving the shooters hand(s) at the unloading area.
2. o This does not apply to firearms shot out of sequence, made safe, and then restaged.
3.  

- A muzzle must not be allowed to "sweep" the other participants at any time.

- Long guns shall have their actions open with chambers and magazines empty and muzzles pointed in a safe direction when transported at a match.

- A holstered revolver (loaded or empty) with the hammer fully down on an empty chamber or expended case is considered safe and may not be interpreted as sweeping another shooter while safely secured in the holster.

- Failure to manage safe muzzle direction is grounds for a Stage Disqualification penalty assessment, and for repeat offenses, a Match Disqualification penalty.

NOTE: An obvious exception to this rule exists, where the shooter is given the ability to draw and holster revolvers from approved, legal holsters without penalty. Further exception is given when retrieving and returning vertically staged double barrel shotguns without penalty

- "Cease Fire" or "STOP!" – The command called out by the TO or any witnessing Range Officer/Match Official at any time an unsafe condition develops. The shooter must stop shooting and stop moving immediately. Willful failure to comply to a Cease Fire or Stop command given by, and while under the control of the TO will result in a Match Disqualification penalty assessment.

- "Muzzle!" – This command quickly and efficiently warns the shooter their muzzle is getting close to the 170° and should be pointed in a safe direction (back down range).

- "Down Range" – This command is announced prior to anyone proceeding down range for any reason], including to reset or repair targets. When a "Down Range" command is announced, all participants at both the loading and unloading areas should cease firearm loading/unloading. Common practice is to raise hands in the air as a visual confirmation that no firearms are being handled while someone is down range.

- Reactive targets such as pepper poppers and falling plates are used when practical to enhance shooter feedback and spectator appeal.

• - Targets are set at close to medium range. While there are no absolute rules, the following are distance recommendations by firearm, if using a target size of approximately 16"x16": o Revolver targets: 7 to 10 yards.
• o Shotgun targets: 8 to 16 yards.
• o Rifle targets: 13 to 50 yards.
• o Derringer/Pocket Pistol – point blank to 3 yards when shooting paper, cardboard, or balloons only. It’s too close to safely shoot steel.
•  

- Reshoots are not awarded for ammunition or firearm malfunctions. However, if there is a range failure (failure of props, timer failure/unrecorded time, or Range Officer interference) beyond the competitor’s control, a reshoot may be granted.

- On a reshoot, the competitor starts over clean, carrying only accrued safety penalties forward.

- The Match Director has the authority to override an "RO assisted" MSV penalty for a reshoot.

- Restarts shall be allowed for a competitor to achieve a "clean" start, before the first round goes down range. Multiple restarts by the same shooter, that in the judgment of the TO are seen to be "taking advantage," will not be entertained as they are not in the Spirit of the Game.

- Posse – A group of shooters scheduled to shoot through all stages together during the course of a match.

- Match Director – is in charge of the overall match and is required to ensure qualified officials are in place in all competition areas. The Match Director is typically the stage writer/designer of the match and has the authority to override an "RO-assisted" MSV penalty for a reshoot.

- Range Master – is in charge of and oversees all stages and ensures qualified officials are in place on all stages. He or she reviews all stages and ensures they are designed and constructed to operate in a safe manner for both competitors and officials.

- Match RO – acts as an intermediator between Posse Marshals and the Range Master in resolving issues regarding the application of rules/penalties.

- Posse Marshal/Deputy Posse Marshal – is in charge of a posse and is required to ensure all posse positions are manned to safely and efficiently run the posse through each course of fire, ensuring all rules and regulations are followed.

- Timer Operator (TO) –is in charge of the firing line as long as he/she is running the timer and has the primary objective to safely assist the shooter through the course of fire.

- Spotters/Counters – have the responsibility to count shots and misses and to verify targets were engaged in the correct order for the required number of shots. Three spotters are required – majority 2/3 breaks any ties in regards to misses.

- Scorekeeper – records the times and penalties appropriately for each contestant on the provided score sheets for each stage.

- Loading Table Officer – is responsible for visually checking to ensure all firearms are loaded with only the correct number of rounds, verify no round is ever under the firing pin of any firearm, and all loaded firearms’ hammers are fully down on an empty chamber.

- Unloading Table Officer – is responsible for visually checking to ensure all firearms are unloaded (clear) at the completion of the shooting stage.

- Inadvertently left rounds in a revolver are misses, unless there is an unfired round under the hammer, in which case it is a Stage DQ.

- Each target hit with an incorrect firearm – either intentionally or by mistake.

- Failure to attempt to fire a firearm, engage a prop, or perform a stage maneuver.

- Use of illegally acquired ammunition.

- First offense in the same match for "shooting out of category."

- Leaving empty or live round(s) in a magazine, action, or carrier of the long gun in which it was loaded.

- Open, empty long guns that slip and fall – but do not break the 170° safety rule or sweep anyone.

- Cocking a revolver before it reaches 45° down range.

- Shooting on the move (continuous, fluid movement while engaging targets).

- Long guns that slip, fall, and break the 170°.

- Violation of the 170° Safety Rule/Failure to maintain appropriate muzzle control.

- Any discharge that hits the ground or non-expendable stage prop 5 – 10 feet from the shooter.

- Returning a revolver to leather with the hammer not fully down on a spent round or empty chamber.

- A cocked revolver leaving the shooters hand.

- Staging or discarding a long gun containing a live round in the chamber (once it leaves the shooter’s hands).

- Initially staging a long gun with the hammer cocked/action closed (once it leaves the shooter’s hands).

- Changing location/moving with a live round under a cocked hammer or firearm with the hammer down on a live round.

- Changing location with a long gun with the action closed and the hammer cocked (exception for rifle from the loading table to the stage with no round chambered).

- Holstering or staging a revolver with the hammer down on a live round.

- Decocking a revolver, rifle, or hammered shotgun to avoid penalty without positive direction to do so from the TO.

- Two accumulated Spirit of the Game assessments.

- Two accumulated SDQ penalties (even on the same stage). *This does not apply to a single action that carries multiple penalties (e.g. breaking the 170° with an unloaded firearm AND simultaneously sweeping someone).

- Willful failure to comply with a "Cease Fire" or "Stop" command given by, and while under the positive control of the TO.

- Shooting under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs, or any substance or medication that may impair the shooter’s physical or mental abilities.

- A shooter leaving the firing line with an un-cleared, malfunctioning firearm unless under the direct supervision of a Match Official.

- Shooting illegal ammunition (e.g., Ammo that exceeds the max velocities and ringed or necked shotgun shells. This does not include ammo that does not meet the power factor).

- Any discharge that hits the ground or non-expendable stage prop less than five feet from the shooter.

- Sweeping anyone with a loaded firearm.

- Willfully shooting a stage other than the way it was intended in order to gain a competitive advantage (Spirit of the Game).

- Shooting ammunition that does not meet the power factor or minimum velocity. The penalty is applied for each stage a competitor is checked and their ammunition is found to not meet the power factor or minimum velocity (Spirit of the Game).

- Willfully refusing to make an attempt to complete any non-shooting procedure written within the stage instructions (Failure to Engage).

In the event a competitor feels a TO’s ruling is in error or has been unfairly assessed, and the firearms have been made safe and unloaded, the ruling may be politely and calmly appealed, initially to the TO and/or Posse Marshal, and only by the competitor involved. The discussion should be taken off the firing line so as not to incur any delays in the shooting flow, involving only those officials on the line at that time and the shooter (the shooter, TO and spotters). The TO must remain completely objective, consider the facts and evidence as it is, and must be prepared to discuss the details addressing any questions the shooter may have. Recorded video/audio or photographic data will never be allowed to be presented as evidence in either regard. Remember: The benefit of any doubt always goes to the shooter. Competitors are typically required to register their appeal or protest prior to leaving the stage or bay where the event in question took place.

If the matter is still not resolved to the satisfaction of the shooter by the Range Master, and they wish to take the matter further, they may then elevate their appeal to the Match Director (MD). The MD will conduct their own review as per the above procedure using the same guidelines. The MD’s decision is final.

Overall winners, often including both the top male and top female competitors are traditionally recognized at SASS matches. The "best score" for the main match stages determines the overall winner.

The maximum velocities are 1000 fps for revolvers and 1400 fps for rifles. Ammunition that exceeds these velocities is considered illegal (this does not include ammunition that does not meet the power factor). Pocket pistols, derringers, and long-range rifles are exempt from the power factor and velocity requirements.

- 77 gr bullet traveling at 800 fps has a power factor of 61.6: (77x800)/1000=61.6

- 1 cc GOEX 2F powder.

Failure of the shooter’s rounds to produce the same level of smoke as the standard rounds will result in a penalty for not adhering to the category requirements. The first offence will be assessed as a procedural penalty, the second offence in the same match a Stage DQ, and the third offence in the same match a Match DQ.

- May not be jacketed, semi-jacketed, hollow point, plated, or gas checked. It must be all lead. Moly-Disulfide, polymer coated bullets, or equivalents are acceptable.

- Must be of "single projectile" design. "Multiple projectile" bullets are illegal.

- All center-fire or rim-fire ammunition must be designed to package the bullet, gunpowder, and primer into a single metallic case precisely made to fit the firing chamber of the firearm. The primer must be of the type that uses only a small charge of impact sensitive chemical that may be located at the center of the case head or at its rim.

- Shotgun size must be number 4 lead birdshot or smaller for all events (no steel or plated shot).

- Magnum and high velocity shotgun shells are not allowed.

- Shotgun shells shall not be sized down (necked) by the use of any die not manufactured for the specific gauge.

- "Coned" shotgun ammunition (partially-crimped or ogival crimped) is not allowed.

- Shotgun shell shall not be scored (ringed) as to cause the shot-shell case, wad, and shot column to be shot from the firearm as one projectile.

- Pump and lever action shotguns are not allowed to load more than two live rounds at a time in the main match stages unless specified in the stage description. In team events, shotguns may be loaded to their maximum magazine capacity.

- Throughout this handbook, blackpowder means blackpowder, or a blackpowder substitute such as Pyrodex, 777, APP, or comparable propellants intended for muzzle loading firearms. Propellants containing nitrocellulose are prohibited as blackpowder substitutes.

Any combination of smokeless and blackpowder (so called duplex loads) is specifically prohibited in ANY category. (e.g., Blackhorn 209). Through testing of various loads, it has been determined that 1cc of blackpowder, in either a .32, .38, .44 or .45 caliber case, all produce approximately the same amount of smoke (see Blackpowder – Testing section for additional requirements). Before deciding on any reduced loads, a competitor should test them to ensure they meet the base line standards.

- Any ammunition dropped by a shooter in the course of reloading any firearm during a stage or ejected from any firearm may be retrieved and replaced, or alternatively, must be replaced from the shooters person or other area as allowed by stage description.

- Dropped rounds or rounds safely placed onto a prop from their original loading area may be recovered and used. In any case of recovery of a dropped or safely placed round must be performed carefully as to not create a loss of muzzle control.

- Illegally acquired ammunition is any ammunition not carried to the line and/or staged by the shooter in an approved manner.

- Failure to bring enough ammunition to the line to complete a stage is scored the same as misses for any un-fired rounds.

- A shooter may not leave the line once the stage has begun to retrieve ammo or firearms until all firearms brought to the line are verified as clear. The penalty for this violation is a Stage Disqualification.

- Inadvertently leaving unfired rounds in a revolver is a miss. (Unless the round is under the hammer, then the penalty is a Stage Disqualification).

- A live round left in the chamber of a long gun carries a Stage Disqualification penalty.

- A live round left in the magazine or on the carrier, as well as an empty round left in the chamber, magazine, or on the carrier of the firearm in which it was loaded, results in a Minor Safety Violation.

- Malfunctioning firearms still containing rounds will not warrant penalties so long as the malfunction is declared and the firearm is made safe.

- A round over the berm carries varying penalties. Site specific match & range rules establish the penalty, up to and possibly including a Match Disqualification.

1. - Uncontrolled discharges have penalties: o Any discharge that hits the ground or non-expendable stage prop 5 – 10 feet from the shooter: Stage Disqualification.
2. o Any discharge that hits the ground or non-expendable stage prop less than five feet from the shooter, any discharge at the loading or unloading areas, any discharge off the firing line, or any discharge that is deemed unsafe result in a Match Disqualification.
3. o The impact distance should be measured from the toe of the shooter’s foot closest to the point of impact where s/he was standing at the time of discharge.
4. o Any discharge in a safe direction after stage engagement during the process of correcting a malfunction by a gunsmith or reasonably competent person will not be penalized.
5.  
6. - Match Directors have the latitude to place props so that shooters must negotiate them. In doing so, Match Directors may declare props as expendable (shootable) without penalty.

Shooting stages/areas at all SASS matches provide a loading and unloading area in proximity to the firing line. The primary responsibility for loading and unloading firearms always rests with the competitor. Shooters should always know the condition of their firearms and should never depend upon the Loading and Unloading officers to ensure their firearms are correctly loaded or unloaded.

- All loading and unloading shall be conducted only in the designated areas.

- The competitor may never blame the Loading or Unloading Officer for an incorrectly loaded firearm or a firearm not unloaded. At no time will this claim be grounds for dismissal of penalties.

- All firearms will remain unloaded except while under the direct observation of a designated person on the firing line or in the designated loading and unloading areas.

- Any competitor’s failure to adhere to loading and unloading procedures will result in a penalty of a Stage Disqualification.

- Leaving the unloading table without clearing all firearms will result in the penalty being assessed on the stage where the infraction was committed. Competitors arriving at the designated loading area with uncleared firearms after completing a stage within the same day will be assessed a Stage Disqualification penalty on the previously completed stage.

- Competitors shall not leave the designated loading area with a loaded firearm unless they are called to the stage as the next competitor to begin the stage by the Timer Operator or Expeditor.

- Percussion revolver shooters must exercise care to ensure they maintain safe muzzle direction during loading and have fired or cleared all capped chambers prior to leaving the unloading area. It is not permissible to seat percussion caps on a revolver’s nipple using the revolver’s hammer. Percussion revolvers may only be capped at the loading area or on the firing line.

- Dry firing at the loading table is not allowed and results in a stage disqualification. Dry firing is allowed only at designated safe areas. Dry firing is defined as the act of bringing the firearm into a shooting position, cocking the hammer, and pulling the trigger as if to cause the firearm to fire normally.

- Competitors shall unload each of their firearms at the designated unloading area and have them visually inspected to make sure all chambers are empty. Rifles and shotguns must be cycled to verify their magazines are empty. All firearms taken to the firing line must be checked, whether or not they were used. Only two main match revolvers may be taken to the line.

Simple precautions can help lessen and/or eliminate high lead levels. After shooting, handling ammunition, or reloading, you should always wash your hands thoroughly, especially prior to eating or smoking. Hand wipes will help at the range where water may be sparse. There are specialized wipes and hand soaps designed to clean lead from the skin.

- Must use a SASS legal single shot rifle firing a traditional blackpowder rifle or revolver caliber cartridge (e.g., not a .30-.30). The rifle may have spring actuated ejectors if they are standard for that rifle. .38 Special is legal.

- Must use a side by side or single shot shotgun, with or without exposed hammers, or a lever action shotgun.

- Must use blackpowder in all loads (rifle, revolver, and shotgun).

- A pocket pistol is a small frame, fixed sight, pre-1900 design revolver having a barrel length of four inches or less. Pocket pistols must be .31 caliber or larger. Model "P" Colts and clones and revolvers with swing out cylinders are specifically not allowed regardless of caliber, frame size, or barrel length. Colt Model 1877 DA revolvers are LEGAL for use as pocket pistols. Pocket pistols may not be used as or converted to main match revolvers.

- A Derringer is defined as an external hammer, fixed sight, breech loading or percussion ignition, small frame pre-1900 design firearm having one to four barrels up to three and one-half inches long. Derringers must be .22 caliber or larger. The Remington style over/under barrel configuration and the Sharps four-barreled Pepperbox are typical SASS legal Derringers

- .22 Magnum ammunition is not allowed.

- Open Category (may be used at the match director’s option to include those firearms not covered by other official Long Range Categories).

Blackpowder categories can be added to any or all of the basic categories at the option of the match director. Each category competes within itself.

- Front barrel sights may vary from simple blades to period hooded wind gauge designs using interchangeable sight inserts and having a spirit level mounted integral with the sight or sight base.

- Rear sights must either be open iron sights mounted on the barrel or original style tang or stock wrist mounted peep sights. Long range rear barrel mounted sights of the flip-up ladder type may use a peephole drilled through the sliding sight leaf. An example of this is the various ladder type sights used on the Springfield trapdoors.

- "Rifle Caliber" competition rifles must use traditional, period, rimmed cartridges. No cartridge chambered for use in any SASS approved main match revolver or rifle may be used in the "Rifle Caliber" competition, except the .56-50. Thus, .30-30 (.30 WCF), .38-55 Marlin & Ballard, .43 Spanish, or .45-70 Government cartridges are legal, while a .375 Winchester, .444 Marlin, .32-20, or .44-40 are not legal. Shotguns using slugs are not allowed in the Buffalo Single Shot competition.

- Any propellant powder may be used (with the exception smokeless powder is not allowed in the Buffalo Single Shot competition).

- Regardless of category or caliber, bullets used in long range and precision rifle matches must be made of pure lead or lead alloy having a plain base, gas checked, or paper patched configuration.

- Range finders or any other devices for calculating distances or sight adjustments are not allowed. Their use constitutes a side match disqualification.

- Scope tube body to be 3/4" or less in diameter and any ocular or objective lenses and adjusting or assembly rings to be less than 1" in diameter.

- Mounts are to be of a traditional style of the period and contain the windage and elevation adjustments for the scope in either, or both, the front or rear mounts. No click adjustments in the mount. Either dove tail mounting or scope block mounting is allowed.

- Original scope mounts of either the Cataract or Malcolm style or variations thereof or replicas or derivative scope mounts conform to the criteria of paragraph above.

(Note: these rules are identical to the NRA BPCS Rules on optical sights).

SASS recognizes the desire to enhance firearm performance. Firearms manufacturers, importers, gunsmiths, and the membership as a whole must use caution in any quest to develop mechanisms designed to enhance the operation of firearms for Cowboy Action Shooting™. Any firearm modification not specifically referenced in this Handbook is prohibited. Parties interested in having modifications, parts, or firearms considered for approval and inclusion in the SASS accepted modification text can request a Firearms Modification Consideration application from SASS Headquarters. Written receipt of acceptance from SASS will be the only source of approval. Unless referenced within these Covenants, any modifications, parts, or firearms used without this approval are illegal.

- All firearms must be designed to fire by use of an impact mechanism such as required by center-fire primers, rim-fire primers, or percussion caps. All other firing mechanisms are illegal.

- Internal modifications not referenced here that cannot be seen while the firearm is at rest (action closed) are allowed provided they do not affect the external operation or directly conflict with one of the modifications listed here.

- Modifying the firing, cocking, chambering, or levering mechanism in any way that changes the process from an entirely manual operation to any other style operation (e.g., blowback operation, gas operation, or recoil operation) is expressly prohibited.

- Replacement parts may be made from materials other than the original unless such material is specifically prohibited.

- All parts may be smoothed, re-profiled, polished, de-burred, or replaced provided they are not prohibited in these Covenants.

- Slings are allowed on long guns. Lanyards are allowed on handguns.

- Hammers may be replaced or exchanged with hammers designed for the same frame size (e.g., small frame revolver hammers may not be installed on large frame revolvers or vice versa).

- Internal parts of the hammer may be changed (e.g., to allow for a half-cock notch on a revolver).

- Ruger Super-Blackhawk/Montado style revolver hammers (i.e., lowered and widened hammers) are acceptable on both adjustable and fixed sight model revolvers.

- Rear sight notches cut into the revolver hammer may be widened.

- Barrels or chambers may be re-bored, lined, or sleeved to any of the approved calibers or gauges for that particular firearm provided industry safe limits are maintained.

- Original barrels may be replaced with new barrels of correct styles (e.g., round, octagon, half-round) for that type of firearm.

- Rifle barrels may be altered to accept mounting hardware for an alternative tube magazine configuration and capacity appropriate to the model of firearm being altered.

- Barrels may be altered to accept period style sights as described within the Sights Section.

- Shotgun barrels must maintain a length of at least 18 inches.

- Shotgun barrels may have internal choke tubes installed provided they do not extend beyond the muzzle.

- Ventilated ribs and mid-barrel beads are allowed on all types of shotguns.

- No heavy competition or "Bull Barrel" is allowed on revolver caliber firearms.

- Visible counter-weighting devices are not allowed.

- Trigger position may be adjusted.

- Bending the trigger guard on side by sides so triggers are more exposed is not allowed.

- The Ranger Point Precision replacement trigger for Marlin lever-action rifles is allowed.

- The length or style of stock may be altered or replaced (e.g., a carbine style stock may be interchanged for a rifle stock and vice-versa).

- Checkering, carving, or laser engraving is allowed on fore-stocks, buttstocks, and revolver grips.

- A permanently fitted, non-adjustable, lace on, or slip on recoil pad is allowed on the buttstock of rifles and shotguns.

- Butt-plates may be changed to a butt-plate style that was generally available from the original manufacturer.

- A piece of leather or similar natural material may be attached to the butt-plate or butt-stock. This includes the "wrist"/grip portion of the buttstock.

- Grips or stocks of simulated or natural materials are acceptable provided they are not customized to constitute a "target" grip or stock. That is, they must be of the same basic shape as grips or stocks found on original firearms.

- Revolver grips must conform to the front and rear of the grip frame but may extend beyond the bottom surface.

- Contemporary rubber grips, modern target grips, grip tape, and the like are not allowed.

- A slide on leather cover to protect the offhand from barrel heat or as a repair is allowed on side by side, lever action, and single shot shotguns.

- Leather on the grip surface of the fore end of a pump shotgun or any rifle is not allowed.

- A leather lace-on or snap on "heat shield" wrap around the barrel and magazine tube of the 1860 Henry rifle is allowed.

- Sights must look like sights available during the cowboy era. Bead, blade, simple post, or otherwise approved front sights (such as the XS Cowboy Express) made of materials such as steel, iron, ivory, faux ivory, brass, gold, pewter, copper, or silver are allowed.

- Colors other than those of the materials referenced above or any "fluorescent" materials may not be applied to either front or rear sights.

- Rear and front sights may be "blacked," painted, or plated in the colors of the previously listed materials. If blacking, paint, or plating is applied to a revolver front sight, it must cover the entire rear surface of the sight to give the appearance of a solid material.

- The front sight may be raised or lowered to bring point-of-aim and point-of-impact into alignment.

- The back of the front sight may be serrated.

- Tang mounted rear sights may utilize changeable "peep" apertures and eyecups.

- Beach style front sights and sight hoods are allowed.

- Front sights may include a bead or insert of steel, iron, ivory, faux ivory, brass, gold, pewter, copper, or silver. The bead or insert shall be the color of the material.

- Rear sights may utilize an insert of the same color as the rear sight to allow easy sight adjustment.

- Fixed sight revolvers may only use traditional style, barrel mounted, fixed metallic foresights of a simple blade, bead, or post configuration.

- A simple open notched rear sight cut into the frame, hammer, or latch mechanism is the only rear sight allowed.

- Beaded post front sights or inserts are not allowed.

- Allowed Exceptions: Original open-top cartridge revolvers, cap and ball revolvers, cartridge conversion revolvers, and their modern made replicas may have either a dovetail front or rear sight, and they must conform to the types commonly found on the originals. Barrel mounted rear sights are allowed on open-top revolvers. The Beretta "Laramie" rear latch with the adjustable rear sight may be replaced with the rear latch (with fixed sight) from the "Russian" Model to be allowed as a fixed sight model revolver. Any other revolver by whatever manufacturer or model that has either a dovetailed or screw adjustable front or rear sight, whether movable or adjustable, is an adjustable sight revolver.

- Adjustable sight revolvers may have dovetailed or adjustable rear sights and/or dovetailed front sights.

- The rear of adjustable sight revolver front sights may be reshaped (such as rounded).

- Beaded post front sights or inserts are not allowed.

- Adjustable sight revolver REAR sights may be replaced with commonly available sights of the same size and type. Modern replacement target sights such as the Bomar and Millett type sights are not allowed.

- Rear sights may utilize an insert of the same color as the rear sight to allow easy sight adjustment.

- Period style tacks, carving, engraving, checkering, inlays, and other such embellishments are allowed on stocks and grips provided they do not constitute any kind of radical or target type grip enhancement.

- Receiver, frame, grip frame, cylinder, or barrel engraving is permitted provided it does not constitute a grip enhancement.

- No portion of the grip frame may be checkered, stippled, serrated or otherwise modified to constitute a grip enhancement.

- A light bead blasted finish may be applied to the exterior of any SASS firearm.

- Metal surfaces may retain their natural color or be blued, browned, plated (such as nickel, gold, or silver), blacked, color case hardened, aged to a patina type finish, or jeweled.

- Factory screws may be replaced with socket head cap or other type screws.

- Frames and receivers may be drilled and tapped (e.g., to accept approved type sights).

- A set-screw may be installed on the frame of Colt Walker & Dragoon reproductions to keep the loading lever from dropping and tying up the action.

- An external metal "latching band" may be used on percussion revolvers to secure the loading lever.

- Ruger Blackhawk and Ruger Old Army adjustable sight frames may be modified by removing the rear sight assembly, welding up the sight cutout, re-contouring the frame top strap, and cutting a new sight notch to replicate Colt SAA or Vaquero frames. The ramp front sight must be replaced with a blade-type in order to be allowed as a fixed sight model revolver.

- Percussion revolvers may be converted to accommodate cartridge-firing mechanisms common to the period. They may also be modified by adding a narrow cap guard to the recoil shield and undercut the hammer (i.e., Manhattan modification). Reproduction percussion revolvers may have the frame contoured to approximate original type designs.

- "John Wayne" style levers may be substituted on rifles for the standard factory lever.

- Filler "blocks" or other such mechanisms designed to prevent all or drastically limit movement of the fingers within the lever loop are not allowed.

- With the exception of the "John Wayne" levers, any replacement lever must maintain the same basic contour and size as the original lever.

- The lever may be cut and welded provided the basic exterior contour and size is not changed.

- All lever action rifles must have a lever travel distance of not less than 4-1/8 inches when measured as follows: With the action closed measure three inches back from the back edge of the trigger at the point where it enters the frame. Mark this point on both the bottom of the buttstock and the lever opposite the buttstock mark. Open the lever to its maximum extension and measure the distance between the two marks.

*Exception: The Browning BL-22 in .22 caliber, is a legal rifle for the Buckaroo Category and is a legal rifle for .22 caliber rifle side matches.

- The carrier and/or lifter mechanisms in rifles may be lightened, welded, modified, or replaced.

- A "two-shot" drop type system for lever action shotguns may be added.

- Loading lever mechanisms on percussion revolvers may be removed or modified to accommodate barrel length changes.

- The seating mechanism on percussion revolvers may be removed or may be modified to adjust seating depth.

- The visible contour of the rear portion of firing pins or firing pin extensions may not be altered.

- Friction reducing devices such as roller bearings are not allowed on the rear portion of firing pins or firing pin extensions.

- Must be centerfire calibers of at least .32 caliber and no larger than .45 caliber or percussion calibers of at least .36 caliber and no larger than .45 caliber.

- Must be in a caliber commonly available in revolvers. Examples include, but are not limited to, .32-20, .32 Magnum, .357 Magnum, .38 Special, .44 Magnum, .44-40, and .45 Colt.

- Standard velocity .22 caliber, rim-fire ammunition is allowed within the Buckaroo Category only.

- Although the .32 caliber revolvers and .36 caliber cap and ball revolvers are legal, they may not be powerful enough to handle all reactive targets.

- Colt style bullseye or crescent ejector rods may be installed.

- "Birdshead" grip frames and grips may be installed on any SAA or its modern replicas.

- Grip frames may be replaced, "rounded," or extended (e.g., the exchange of a Single Action Army grip frame with an 1860 Army grip frame and vice versa).

- Center-fire and rim-fire cylinders may have no less than five and no more than six chambers.

- Cylinders may be re-bored, lined, or sleeved to any of the approved revolver calibers provided industry safe limits are maintained.

- Modifying the cylinders of percussion revolvers by opening up the cap/nipple recess area to accommodate the use of all types of cappers is allowed.

- Side-by-side, single shot, and lever action shotguns must be centerfire of at least 20 gauge and no larger the 10 gauge.

- Slide action shotguns must be centerfire of at least 16 gauge and no larger than 12 gauge.

- Side-by-side, single shot, and lever action centerfire shotguns in .410 caliber and 28 or 32 gauge are allowed within the Buckaroo Category only.

- Internal mechanisms to guarantee break action shotguns do not close accidentally may be added or modified.

- The top opening lever on break action shotguns may be bent (re-profiled) by no more than ½" from the center of the tang to the outside edge of the lever.

- Must be in a caliber commonly available in revolvers. Examples include, but are not limited to, .32-20, .32 Magnum, .357 Magnum, .38 Special, .38-40, .44-40, .44 Special, .44 Magnum, and .45 Colt. The only allowed exceptions are the .25-20 and .56-50. No rifle calibers such as .30-30 or .38-55 are allowed.

- Buckaroo/Buckarette Category competitors choosing to utilize .22 caliber firearms must use standard velocity .22 caliber rim-fire ammunition only.

- Small frame Model P revolvers such as the Cimarron Firearms Lightning, Uberti Stallion, and Ruger Single Six .32 H & R Magnum

- Henry Big Boy Rifle (not legal in Classic Cowboy/Cowgirl Categories)

- Marlin 1894 Tube Feed Rifle—.32 H&R Magnum

SECTION 7 – MISS FLOW CHART Copyright© Single Action Shooting Society, Inc. 2022 Version 26.2 41

SECTION 8 – RO POCKET CARD Copyright© Single Action Shooting Society, Inc. 2022 Version 26.2 42

SECTION 9 – GLOSSARY OF TERMS Copyright© Single Action Shooting Society, Inc. 2022 Version 26.2 31

170º Safety Rule - means the muzzle of the firearm must always be pointed down range +/- 85 degrees in any direction.

Action Closed (lever & pump action long guns) – BOLT in "full battery" ( e.g., unable to further close by manipulation of the lever or pump mechanism).

Action Closed – (SxS & single-shot firearms) functional firearm that requires manipulation of the opening mechanism (e.g., top/side lever/button) to open the action.

Action Open (lever & pump action long guns) – BOLT not closed completely.

Action Open– (SxS & single-shot firearms) – functional firearm that opens without manipulation of the release mechanism (e.g., top/side lever/button)

Apparel – Articles of clothing including: shirts, pants, dresses, vests, jackets, coats, dusters, chaps/chinks, leggings, boots, and hats. Not to include: Gun leather, ammo belts, garters/arm bands, wrist cuffs, or bandanas.

Adjustable sight style revolver – a revolver with dovetailed or adjustable rear sights and/or dovetailed front sights. Ramp style front sights are allowed if original to the firearm.

Basketball traveling rule – aka movement with a firearm. Once the firearm is cocked, one foot must remain in place on the ground until the firearm is made safe. This means, on revolvers, you may move, restage, or re-holster when the hammer is down on an empty chamber or expended case. You may move with a rifle or shotgun when the action is open or hammer(s) down on an empty chamber(s) or an expended case(s).

Cleared – no live or empty cases in or on the chamber, magazine, action, or carrier.

Cocked – hammer not fully down (full, half-cock or safety notch).

Committed – the point at which a firearm would have to be made safe to leave the shooter’s hand, and the point when the shooter is required to continue with the course of fire.

Commonly available – obtainable by anyone given ordinary circumstances with ordinary means.

Convention – Conventions refer to standard range behaviors, rules, and expectations.

Course of fire – from the beep of the timer once the shooter has signified "ready" to last shot fired.

Decock – lowering the hammer of a firearm using part of the hand (e.g., thumb) to impede the hammer’s fall.

Double Duelist shooting style – revolvers cocked and fired one handed and unsupported, five shots with each hand. The revolver, hand, or shooting arm may not be touched by the offhand except when resolving a malfunctioning revolver problem.

Down range – 180 degrees from the shooter toward the targets of a stage.

Dropped firearm – a firearm that has left the shooter’s control and comes to rest at a location or position other than where it was intended.

Dry firing – the act of bringing an unloaded firearm into a shooting position, cocking the hammer, and pulling the trigger as if to cause the gun to fire normally.

Duelist shooting style – a revolver cocked and fired one handed, unsupported. The revolver, hand, or shooting arm may not be touched by the off-hand except when resolving a malfunctioning revolver problem or when transferring the revolver from one hand to the other.

Engaged – attempting to fire a round at the target.

Equipment – any non-apparel item taken to the firing line.

Failure to engage – willfully or intentionally disregarding the stage instructions in order to obtain a competitive advantage and is not simply because a competitor "makes a mistake." Applies only to non-shooting situations such as refusing to rope a steer, throw a stick of dynamite, or otherwise make an attempt to complete any other non-shooting procedure written within the stage instructions.

Fanning – A handgun (revolver, pocket pistol, or derringer) shooting technique in which one hand controls the trigger and the other hits the hammer singularly or repeatedly without any part of the cocking hand remaining in contact with the handgun or the support hand.

Firing line – from first firearm placed on the loading table until all firearms are confirmed as cleared at the unloading table.

Fixed Sight style revolver – barrel mounted, fixed metallic foresights of a simple blade, bead, or post configuration combined with a simple open notched rear sight cut into the frame, hammer, or latch mechanism. (Note exceptions for conversion revolvers).

Free Style – shooter has the option of shooting Two-handed style or Duelist style.

Gun Stoppage – a stoppage is an unintentional interruption in the operational cycle of the gun. Stoppages can typically be cleared quickly, returning the gun back to operational condition.

Gunfighter shooting style – shooting a revolver in each hand. Revolvers must be cocked and fired one handed, unsupported, one righthanded and the other lefthanded. There is no set pattern as to how the revolvers are to be fired

Hammer down – hammer fully down at its final resting position.

Illegally acquired ammunition – ammo NOT carried to the line or staged by the shooter in an approved manner.

Illegal Ammunition – ammunition that exceeds the maximum velocities (revolver 1000fps and rifle 1400 fps) or does not meet the Ammunition Covenants in this handbook. (Excludes ammunition that does not meet power factor)

Laterally Angled – tilted to the SIDE not OUT from the body (e.g., /// \\\ \l/)

Loaded Firearm – Any firearm with unfired round(s) in the action/chamber/magazine.

Location – a physical point on a stage (e.g., "behind the door…")

Logo – distinctive graphic design, stylized name, unique symbol, or other device for identifying an organization. This includes those of SASS, individual clubs/ranges, match commemorative and those of any subgroups within the Cowboy Action Shooting community. Exceptions: Badges, pins, belt buckles, scarf slides, military unit/rank insignia of a standard size.

Major Safety Violation – a safety infraction that has a high potential for personal injury.

Malfunction – Failure of a gun or ammunition to function as designed or fire satisfactorily.

Minor Safety Violation – handling or firing a gun in a manner that is unsafe but does not directly endanger persons.

Miss – a failure to hit the appropriate target type using the appropriate firearm type. For further explanation of how to assess a miss, see "Miss Flow Chart" in this document. (See also "5-Second Penalties" section of the PENALTY OVERVIEW")

Plating – a thin coating of gold, silver or other metal. Chemical electrodeposition, epoxies, glues, adhesives, tape, or other methods of affixation may be used.

Position – the posture and stance of the shooter (e.g., "the shooter starts with hands touching hat …).

Power factor – Bullet weight (in grains) times the velocity (in feet per second); divided by 1000. The minimum standard in all SASS matches for smokeless categories is not less than 60 and no velocity less than 400 fps. Maximum velocity for revolvers is 1000 fps. Maximum velocity for rifles is 1400 fps.

Procedural – an unintentional action where the competitor does not follow the Stage instructions, can include actions/omissions other than firing a round (e.g., failure to adhere to category requirements).

Progressive Penalty – Procedural for the first infraction, Stage Disqualification for the second infraction, Match Disqualification for the third infraction. Example: failure to adhere to category requirements.

Reshoot – score recorded, the competitor starts over clean, carrying accrued safety penalties. Both scores turned in.

Revolver in hand – when the muzzle of the revolver clears the mouth of the holster, or breaks contact with a prop where it was staged.

Shooting out of category – failure to adhere to category-specific requirements/restrictions.

Shooting string – shots from one type of firearm prior to use of the next type of firearm engaged.

Short Sleeved Shirt (for males clothing)- A shirt with sleeves that do not extend to the wrist. (Rolling up the sleeves on a long-sleeved shirt is acceptable. Fastening or securing the rolled-up sleeve(s) in place is the same as a short sleeve and is prohibited.

Stage – synonymous with "Course of Fire" from the beep of the timer once the shooter has signified "ready" to the last shot fired.

Timer Operator (TO) – oversees all activities on the stage while in possession of the timing device.

Two handed shooting style – aka "Traditional," or shooter holds a single revolver with two hands.

Up range – 180 degrees from the shooter away from the targets of a stage.

Copyright© Single Action Shooting Society, Inc. 2022 Version 26.2 31