3-Gun is a shooting competition in which competitors use three types of firearms: pistol, rifle, and shotgun. Speed, accuracy, and the ability to efficiently use various weapon systems in dynamically changing situations are important. It's a true test of shooting versatility!
What exactly is 3-Gun?
3-Gun is a dynamic shooting discipline that has gained popularity worldwide, including in Poland. It combines elements of practical, sport, and tactical shooting. 3-Gun competitions are a series of diverse stages where competitors must use a pistol, rifle, and shotgun to overcome targets in the shortest possible time. Not only accuracy matters, but also the speed of changing weapons, tactical thinking, and overall physical fitness.
It's not just a sport, but also an excellent way to improve your weapons handling skills, improve reflexes, and fitness. 3-Gun competitions are open to shooters of all skill levels - from beginners who want to try their hand, to experienced competitors who compete for the highest places.
Where did 3-Gun come from? A brief history
The origins of 3-Gun date back to the 1970s in the United States. Shooters began experimenting with competitions that required the use of different types of firearms to simulate real combat situations. Over time, 3-Gun evolved into a structured sport with its own rules and categories.
In Poland, 3-Gun has been gaining popularity for several years. New clubs and competitions are emerging, and more and more shooters are discovering the joy and challenges associated with this discipline.
What do 3-Gun competitions look like?
3-Gun competitions consist of several (usually 4–8) shooting stages. Each stage is a unique combination of targets, distances, and obstacles that the competitor must overcome in a specific order, using the appropriate weapon. Targets can be static, moving, metal (gongs, poppers) or paper (silhouette targets).
An example stage might look like this:
- Start with a pistol in a holster.
- Shooting at 3 paper targets from a distance of 10 meters.
- Switching to a rifle and shooting at 5 steel gongs from a distance of 50 meters.
- Running through an obstacle (e.g. barrels, tires).
- Switching to a shotgun and shooting at 2 clay pigeons.
- End of stage.
The time it takes to complete the stage counts, but so does accuracy. Penalty seconds are added for each miss.
Equipment needed for 3-Gun: what do you need?
To start in 3-Gun competitions, you need:
- Pistol: 9 mm pistols are most commonly used, but other calibers are also allowed (e.g. .40 S&W, .45 ACP). Reliability and accuracy are important. Popular models include CZ Shadow, Glock, Colt 1911.
- Rifle: The AR-15 rifle in .223 Rem / 5.56 NATO is most commonly used. As with the pistol, reliability and accuracy are important. It is worth investing in a red dot sight or a low power variable optic (1-6x or similar).
- Shotgun: The most popular is a semi-automatic shotgun in 12 GA caliber. The ability to reload quickly and reliability are important. Popular models include Benelli M4, Remington 870 (after modifications).
- Ammunition: The amount of ammunition depends on the number and nature of the stages. You usually need about 100–200 pistol rounds, 50–100 rifle rounds, and 25–50 shotgun shells per competition.
- Holster and pouches: You must have a safe and comfortable pistol holster and pouches for pistol magazines, rifle magazines, and shotgun shells. A tactical belt is essential.
- Hearing and eye protection: Hearing protection (e.g. active headphones) and ballistic glasses are mandatory.
Accessories that may be useful
In addition to the basic equipment, there are many accessories that can make it easier to start in 3-Gun competitions and improve your results:
- Magwell for AR-15: Facilitates quick magazine changes.
- Foregrip for rifle: Improves stability and control over the weapon.
- Shotgun speed loader: Allows for quick reloading of the shotgun magazine.
- Enlarged manipulators (magazine release, safety) for AR-15: Facilitate weapon operation.
- Shooting timer: Helps in training and measuring the time it takes to complete stages.
Is 3-Gun for everyone?
3-Gun is a demanding but rewarding shooting discipline. It requires not only shooting skills, but also physical fitness, tactical thinking and the ability to make quick decisions. If you like challenges and want to test your skills in a dynamic environment, 3-Gun may be perfect for you!
How to start your adventure with 3-Gun?
- Find a shooting club: Look for a shooting club in your area that organizes 3-Gun competitions or has a dynamic shooting section.
- Obtain the appropriate permits: Make sure you have all the required permits for firearms and ammunition.
- Take part in training: Sign up for training in dynamic shooting and 3-Gun. You will learn basic safety rules, shooting techniques and tactics.
- Complete the equipment: Buy or rent the necessary equipment (pistol, rifle, shotgun, ammunition, holster, pouches, hearing and eye protection).
- Train regularly: Regularly practice shooting with different types of weapons, changing magazines, overcoming obstacles and tactical thinking.
- Participate in competitions: Sign up for a 3-Gun competition and test your skills in practice!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the minimum equipment requirements to start your adventure with 3-Gun?
To start, a pistol, rifle and shotgun that meet the requirements of the competition regulations, a holster, pouches and hearing and eye protection are sufficient. You don't have to buy the most expensive equipment right away - focus on mastering the basic skills.
Are 3-Gun competitions safe?
Yes, provided that safety rules are followed and the instructions of the judges are listened to. Safety is always a priority at 3-Gun competitions.
Where can I find 3-Gun competitions in my area?
Look for information on the websites of shooting clubs, internet forums dedicated to sport and dynamic shooting, and on social media.
Do I have to be an experienced shooter to participate in 3-Gun competitions?
No, 3-Gun competitions are open to shooters of all skill levels. However, it is important to know the basic safety rules and be able to handle firearms safely.
What are the most common mistakes made by novice shooters in 3-Gun?
The most common mistakes are: lack of knowledge of safety rules, incorrect handling of weapons, too slow weapon changes, lack of tactical thinking and poor physical fitness.
How can I improve my results in 3-Gun?
Regularly practice shooting with different types of weapons, changing magazines, overcoming obstacles and tactical thinking. Analyze your performances in competitions and draw conclusions. Take advantage of the advice of experienced shooters and coaches.
Are there any restrictions on equipment in 3-Gun?
Yes, 3-Gun competition regulations specify detailed requirements for equipment, such as weapon caliber, magazine capacity, permitted modifications and accessories. Always read the competition regulations before starting.
What pistol caliber is best for 3-Gun?
9 mm is the most popular due to ammunition availability, low recoil and good accuracy. Alternatives are .40 S&W or .45 ACP, but they require better control.
Can I use reloaded ammunition in 3-Gun competitions?
It depends on the regulations of the specific competition. Some competitions allow reloaded ammunition, others do not. Always check the regulations before the competition.