Canning Single Action (Cowboy Action Shooting)
Canning Single Action, also known as Cowboy Action Shooting, is a themed, multi-firearm shooting discipline that recreates the spirit of the Old West.
The sport originated in 1981 at the Coto de Caza Shooting Range in California and is now practiced worldwide under organisations such as:
- Single Action Shooting Society (SASS)
- Single Action Shooting Australia (SASA)
- Western Action Shootists Association (WASA)
- National Congress of Old West Shooters (NCOWS)
Overview
Cowboy Action Shooting is a multi-gun competition where shooters engage targets using a combination of:
- Revolvers
- Rifles
- Shotguns
All stages are designed around Old West themes, combining:
- Timed shooting
- Movement between positions
- Engaging multiple targets
Competitors are judged on speed and accuracy, making it both a fun and highly competitive discipline.
Firearms Used
Competitors use firearms typical of the mid-to-late 19th century, including:
- Single-action revolvers (hammer must be cocked before each shot)
- Lever-action rifles chambered in pistol calibres
- Side-by-side double-barrel shotguns (coach guns)
- Approved historical designs such as:
- Winchester 1897
- Winchester 1887
- Colt Lightning rifle
Both original and reproduction firearms are permitted, with replicas widely available from manufacturers such as Ruger, Colt, Uberti, and others.
Typical Match Setup
A standard match usually requires:
- Two revolvers
- One rifle (pistol calibre)
- One shotgun
Costume and Alias
A unique aspect of this discipline is its strong emphasis on theme and character.
Costume
Competitors must wear:
- Old West or Victorian-style clothing
- Period-appropriate gear and accessories
Safety equipment (eye and hearing protection) is mandatory.
Alias
Each participant adopts a unique shooting alias inspired by the Old West.
- Aliases are registered with governing bodies
- They must be unique
- Creativity is encouraged, as many historical names are already taken
Competition Format
Matches consist of multiple stages, each with a different scenario.
Typical Stage Requirements
- ~10 revolver rounds
- 8–10 rifle rounds
- 2–8 shotgun rounds
Targets are usually:
- Steel plates (audible “ring” when hit)
- Knockdown targets
- Occasionally clay targets
Stages often include:
- Movement between positions
- Reloading under time
- Specific shooting patterns (e.g. “Nevada sweep”)
Scoring
Time-Based Scoring
- Shooters compete one at a time
- Time is recorded using electronic timers
- Final score =
- Raw time
- + 5 seconds per miss
- + 10 seconds per procedural penalty
The fastest adjusted time wins.
Rank-Point Scoring (Alternative)
- Shooters are ranked per stage
- Lowest total ranking score wins
Match Flow
A typical stage follows this process:
- Shooter prepares firearms as per stage instructions
- Range Officer confirms readiness
- Commands given: “Ready” → “Standby” → Start signal
- Timer beeps and stage begins
- Shooter engages targets in the required sequence
- Firearms are cleared and checked at the unloading table
- Time and penalties are recorded
Why Shooters Enjoy Single Action
This discipline is popular because it offers:
- A unique historical shooting experience
- A strong social and community atmosphere
- Creative expression through costumes and aliases
- A balance of fun and competitive challenge
In summary: Canning Single Action is a fun, immersive, Old West–themed shooting discipline that combines historical firearms, timed competition, and strong community spirit.