These are the good ol' days!

[Big Hext]

(I generally don't make multiple cross-posts on different boards.  This time, I feel strongly about the issues and I know that many do not read the SASS Wire, where I first posted this, so I beg y'alls' indulgence.)

As a middling old timer, let me say that this is the very best time to be a Cowboy Action Shooter!
Also, this is not directed at any specific folks, just an observation that's been building up steam.

Yes, there have been a lot of changes and depending on your point of view, some are good, some are bad.  Speed is the clear measure of the CAS game under SASS rules... and folks, that's the way it's going to be.  It's time to use the stability and quit tilting the windmill.  There is incredible freedom now.  CAS is a fixture, a highly visible form of shooting competition.  While many active shooters may not know the particulars, almost all are aware of the basics, in terms of guns, dress and targets.  It's no longer required to take a PowerPoint presentation to explain how it works to prospective hosts and such.  Because of that there have never been more clubs available and forming. 

Guns, whether BP or cartridge, are available in ever-increasing numbers and varieties.  From tried and true to the latest and greatest, you can really find a huge number of options.  The days of Blackhawk or Colt are long behind us.  And with the explosion of clothing styles and vendors, a little Googling or Yahooing and we can create the personas, the images that used to just live in our imagination or perhaps our history.  Reloading supplies, loaded ammunition, boots, holsters and rigs are all available online or locally.  It's about choice, price and options. 

So, why is there so much strife online?  Rarely do we see any angst, trouble or animosity out at a match, even the really big pressure cookers... it just ain't so.  But ten seconds on the SASS Wire with a mildly interesting topic will get a storm brewing in short order.  I can't answer about the lack of civility, but I think I can offer a suggestion about direction, purpose and results.

Become a leader!  SASS is what it is... and that is not going to change because of nagging or wanting.  But, there is more freedom than ever.  With dedicated ranges, create an alternate event, one that stresses the aspects YOU are interested in the most.
Want a Military event?  There are some happening now and lots of help available.
Want an easy on the ears match?  Make it happen.
How about a Classic Cowboy is just the basics match, full costuming required.  Movie poster material, photographers wanted!
Black powder?  Fuggetaboutit.. old hat, right?  Remember not that long ago, there were no BP only matches.
More guns, fewer guns, props, story lines... all the variables are YOURS to control.

Anybody who knows me knows that I like a good gripe session with the best of them.  What I hate, what I see far too often here, is destructive, hateful language over differences of opinion!  Ask for suggestions, volunteers, and cooperation and create a positive force that will advance CAS into the next phase.  If it doesn't fly, don't get bitter, just realize that the seed may be planted and a better time will bear fruit for new ideas.

I am hopeful that the next five to ten years finds us with a more vibrant and diverse collections of opportunities. 
Adios,

[Tensleep]

Yanno girls... (trying to sound like Gus in Lonesome Dove)

There is a lot of wisdom in what ol' Hext has to say (hope to meet him one day.)

We don't seem to have the extreme discord here on Cas City that rears it's ugly head on the other boards, but I do occassionally hear some whining. Lots of things can be done ... IF you are willing to put forth the effort.

Things like The Big Iron Showdown
http://www.iredellregulators.com//BigIronShowdown/index.htm

are matches that remind us of the fun that can be had.

The major problem that I see these days is that there are to many folks that would rather whine or gripe instead of helping out when it comes to matches. The excuses are there about why folks can't help set up, tear down, plan or execute these matches, but the same folks find plenty of time to do what THEY WANT TO DO!

If ya ain't helpin' stop yer whinin'!

Thanks BH!

Off my soapbox now...... 10zzz

[Stump Water]

A most excellent post Big Hext!

I have to come clean... over the past year or so I've tagged you as one of those people that has receeded into the shadows proclaiming that the game has been corrupted and "it ain't like it used to be".

There is wisdom and iron in your words that all need to hear.

Welcome back.

[Stump Water]

And 10zzz beat me to a plug fer tha Beeg Arn.   

[Big Hext]

A most excellent post Big Hext!

I have to come clean... over the past year or so I've tagged you as one of those people that has receeded into the shadows proclaiming that the game has been corrupted and "it ain't like it used to be".

There is wisdom and iron in your words that all need to hear.

Welcome back.

Thanks for the kind words, 10Z and Stump..
You ain't all wrong there, Stump.  I don't enjoy the game as much as I once did.  If this were my magic kingdom, I'd like to go back and encourage the WB to make a few decisions differently.  BUT, to focus on the differences, the imperfections is just dumb.  There is too much fertile opportunity for those willing to do the work.
Yeehaaaw!

[Silver Creek Slim]

Good post, Big Hext.

Slim

[Old Top]

Big Hext,

May I add my kudo's to the list here.  I have not been in the CAS game very long but it has been my observation that what he has to say is right on the money.  I have never been with a better shooting group in my life nor with as many different pistols and rifles as this has to offer and the folks are more then willing to let you shoot their prized possestions if you just look at them fondly, good helpful advise and the willingness to let you do your own thing even if they do not agree with you has been the norm.  Are there things that I do not care for or people that are not part of the norm? Of course, but they seem to be few and far between, I look forward to the once a month shoot, yes I could shoot evey weekend  but then the dog would not be happy that he has to share his house.  I beleive that Big Hext is correct that this is the best of times.

Old Top

[Wymore Wrangler]

Great post Big Hext, I sure do miss the days when we all argued over "dad's" guns we were going to inherit....

[Lucky Irish Tom]

Great post Hex.

My Son-In-Law has already eyed my CAS guns, I told him he's gonna have to shoot Cowboy if he wants to inherit them.  Once he gets out of the Service and stops working two jobs I reckon I'll get him to a match! 

[Four-Eyed Buck]

Well said, Hext, ol' pard. I couldn't agree with you more
I've had the pleasure of talking to Hext on the phone and doin' a deal with him once as well. good pard to ride he river with................Buck

[Lawful Larry]

I gotta admit that I only hear the whinnin' on Wire.  A lot of times i will read some of those posts, but just shake my head at the garbage talk. 

At shoots everyone gets along just fine.  So I would have to agree with BH.  Are ya back shootin' again or still in the low mode?

I have seen a few of my friends get burned out and left the game.  Hell, I seem to be slowin' down myself.  I guess the spark ain't what it used to be.  The pards are the same, the shootin' seems different though. 

[Big Hext]

Still not shooting much.  April was my last match.
Just choices, time and options.

Adios,

[GunClick Rick]

I am almost over the hurdle of getting all my gear and as soon as i get this leg fixed(boy does it hurt!)I am getting off my butt and get after it.I am greatful that this game exists if for nothing more than Shoot matgazine to read and good "ole" Tequila for puttin a fine show on tv to watch.I have learned a ton from folks that do this sport and without knowing me have lent me thier ear and gave me good advice.I have purchased firearms from folks here and nothing less than trustworthy no worry purchases with great customer support.I would hate to see whinning so to speak ruin and do away with the sport.Nothing wrong with discusing issues as a goup,that's helpful but the little nagging things ain't good.I have a very healthy respect for firearms and i am taking my time so i know how to be safe,i want to get used to handeling loaded guns.I operated very heavy equipment for years and boy let me tell ya,the minute you don't pay attention it'll bite ya right in the arse..So keep it all good ima comin,hopin to get fixed soon.In the meantime thank you for letting me learn the sport in the way that i can for now,I APRECIATE IT!!!!! I really enjoyed the last Cowboy show on shotguns which is what i have yet to get..