SASS vs NCOWS

[Stirrup Trouble]

I just wanted to drop a quick note. I am new to cowboy shooting, as I have only shot in a couple of matches, but I am already hooked. So far, I have only shot in SASS matches, and they are fun, but there is also an NCOWS group a little over an hour from me that starts their matches in the spring again, and I was thinking of giving them a try, too.

I was curious what they difference is between the two. I am not looking for a debate of which is better, as for me, anything cowboy related in fun. I get the impression that NCOWS is more historically accurate, but I was just curious what to look out for, differences, etc. in case I give them a shot. I just don't want to do anything dumb if I can help it

Thanks

[bowiemaker]

NCOWs is not as much about speed shooting. The targets are usually considerably farther away than at a SASS match and there is a 10 second penalty for a miss so it pays to take the time to aim and hit. NCOWS is a bit more particular about historically accurate guns and dress but not as strict as some people say. In my experience, NCOWS matches tend to be a bit more laid back and relaxed. Also NCOWS has 2, 3 and 4 gun categories.

[Pancho Peacemaker]

Agree 100% with Bowiemaker.

Each organization has a unique flavor & culture.

SASS is shooting very fast & up close. Dress rules are very relaxed.  You may often shoot with folks in clothing you'd find at the local rodeo.  SASS only has "4 gun" classes (2 revolver, 1 rifle, 1 shotgun).   SASS is a privately owned, for-profit business.

NCOWS places more emphasis on accuracy and historic authenticity.  Shooters will all be in pre1900 dress (some allowance is given to newbies in their first year).  Targets are usually twice the distance or more of SASS targets.  You can shoot in 2 gun, 3 gun, or 4 gun classes. Atmosphere is very laid back, much less "competetive".  NCOWS is a non-profit, member run organization.

I am glad that we have both organizations.  They both serve to the unique interests of their respective memberships.  That being said, many folks are members of both.

[Stirrup Trouble]

Thanks, guys. That clarifies what I was thinking and it looks like both have room for me

[Major 2]

You mentioned " ...an NCOWS group a little over an hour from you "

May I asked ...Which Posse would that be ?

I'd also mention the NCOWS National Convention in Springfield Mo. this March , a very good way to meet & greet fellow members.
And the National Shoot in June ....

[bowiemaker]

I should also mention that NCOWS does not allow short stroked rifles, race gun modifications or fast draw holster rigs. You can see the entire 35 page rule book here: http://www.ncows.org/resources/pdfs/2013tally_book.pdf

[Stirrup Trouble]

You mentioned " ...an NCOWS group a little over an hour from you "

May I asked ...Which Posse would that be ?

I'd also mention the NCOWS National Convention in Springfield Mo. this March , a very good way to meet & greet fellow members.
And the National Shoot in June ....

The group I was talking about is called the Blue River Regulators (I think) outside of Valparaiso, NE

[Stirrup Trouble]

I should also mention that NCOWS does not allow short stroked rifles, race gun modifications or fast draw holster rigs. You can see the entire 35 page rule book here: http://www.ncows.org/resources/pdfs/2013tally_book.pdf

Thanks for the tips about modified guns. All mine are stock. The only excuse I have for my slow speed is me

[Pancho Peacemaker]

The group I was talking about is called the Blue River Regulators (I think) outside of Valparaiso, NE

You will be shooting with some of the best of NCOWS there.  Look up River City John & Yuma Kid (among others)  when you get there.  Both are folks I hold in high regard.

A couple of my pards from Texas attended their regional match this fall and had a grand time.

[Major 2]

What Pancho said  DITTO .... You'll be with fine people

[St8LineLeatherSmith]

I wish my local area had a NCOWS posse, I like the fact the orginization have rules set forth disallowing modifying guns for speed which IMO levels out the playing field a little more
and a little more oriented to accuracy at further distances.

[High Sierra]

Join both clubs if there around you. I dont know of any NCOWS in California.

HS

[Major 2]

There are the Hat Creek Regulators http://www.ncows.org/posses/HCR.htm

[Jack Straw]

I really wish we had NCOWS here in Arizona.   I recently returned to CAS after many years away and I have to say I've been disappointed at the way the game has become mostly a speed shoot.   Real big targets up real close seems to be the thing and this combined with some pretty complex procedural sequences has changed the character of the matches in a big way.

The local club match director told me that if the targets were harder to hit that shooters would not attend his events!!
I'm surprised that many cowboy shooters could be such delicate flowers but maybe it's true.

I guess I'm an old Fogey but I thoughts guns had sights for a reason, we sure don't need 'em in modern SASS.

The game is still fun and the people are still great but it would be nice to have a little variety in target distance and size.

[bowiemaker]

It is not hard to start up a NCOWS posse.  http://www.ncows.com/about/membershipinfo.html#How to Form a Posse