Goals for first local match?

[Robert Swartz]

My buddy and running partner for better than 40 years has already done a couple of these. He's the competitive type. I went to one as an observer. So, now I'm dipping my toes in the water. Was gonna run my BP guns but under the restraints of a match. I need to refine the methods and have a manner to carry all the materials. On this go around, it will be a cartridge gun, Uberti SAA and if I get the bullets and can get to another bud's shop to use his loader, an 1873 Infantry Trapdoor. Just acquired this gun last week, finding brass, primers and bullets was a challenge. My expectations aren't real high. Just don't want to look like a complete idiot. Been around BP shooting and reenacting for better than 25 years, this is a different game.

[Ridge Runner]

What match restraints would impede the use of BP guns?

[Robert Swartz]

What match restraints would impede the use of BP guns?

My own, getting comfortable. The cartridge guns will be loaded with BP rounds. My experience with shooting BP pistols. Ususally in one spot and have all my tools and loading supplies laid out. This is a different game.

[Major 2]

Its not to bad, one can overcome the issue

I provide my own portable table/ load space  all my paraphernalia is stored there.  it is way handy and does not impede the stage loading table ....

But It can be mounted on your carts top also , here are some ideas from the web

[Ridge Runner]

I just use a fold up table purchased from Walmart.

[Montana Slim]

Assume your preferences are toward C&B revolvers. My favorites for a long, long time. I have used a carpet bag, with internal pouches many times at NCOWS matches to carry all my ammo, brass, tin cup, pocket pistol & accoutrements for management of cap guns. At an opportune time during a stage, I'll simply take a 5 minute sabbatical to "charge" 2 revolvers with powder & ball. Going to nearest empty shooting bay, when possible. Obviously, we'll cap at the loading table. My pistols feature 8" barrels & I use the on-board rammer to load. I also use a white paint pen to mark my designated "empty" chamber (nipple) to improve both speed & accuracy of the loading process. I place both pistols on table, half cock both. Charge 5 chambers, then ram a ball over each. Proceed to do same on pistol #2. I like a dab of lube, so I do that last ($1 condiment dispenser - hide in a canvas of similar bag). I also recommend using one (or more) cappers as these save time. This system works for me, the important thing is develop a good system for you. Another quick loading tool I use ( with my 44s) are a spring loaded powder dispensing flask. I've had mine for around 45 yr. Its a time & finger saver. Maybe those are still available somewhere?...
I also carefully prepare my revolvers prior to the match, including charging each with powder & ball ( not capped!)

Very small posse makes a challenge, if this happens, I ask for everyone to take "5" while I get prepped. If I think that's a possibility in advance, I'll skip initial charging & take a set of cartridge conversions or maybe something "unusual" to shoot in case the numbers aren't there.

Hope there's something here that may help you.

Regards,
Slim

[Robert Swartz]

Some good ideas here. I had contemplated marking the open cylinder. First time out, gonna use the cartridge pistol. Try the cap and ball pistols when I get more comfortable.

[Abilene]

Well, the title "Goals for first local match?" makes me think of my goals for every match:  Don't shoot anybody and don't leave with any more holes in me than I came with.   

I always accomplish those goals plus the one that says "Have Fun!"

[1961MJS]

Hi

I run 4H rifle and pistol matches:

I always tell the first timers to listen to the range officer, keep the muzzle down range, do what the range office tells you to do, have fun, and above all don't shoot your range officer.  I sometimes end with "Hi, I'm your range officer."

Later

[Ridge Runner]

Our matches are usually lightly attended, but no one is in a hurry.  They have no problem waiting on me.  Not to mention, they really enjoy seeing the percussion shotgun half knock me over.

[Robert Swartz]

Hi

I run 4H rifle and pistol matches:

I always tell the first timers to listen to the range officer, keep the muzzle down range, do what the range office tells you to do, have fun, and above all don't shoot to the guy in chargeyour range officer.  I sometimes end with "Hi, I'm your range officer."

Later

Yeah, best to listen to the guy in charge. I once pulled a veteran retired Marine out of line at Mississinewa 1812 over an unsafe act. He understood and we are friends and chuckle it about 20 years later. I'm not a complete rookie. Done my share of BP shoots, Woodswalks and Reenactments. New game, just plan on throwing some lead down range.

[bear tooth billy]

I assume you're talking a cowboy shoot?  A trapdoor single shot (although cool)
would be a tremendous time disadvantage, compared to a lever action that holds
10 rounds


                                      BTB

[Pitspitr]

I'm reminded of what Bat Masterson told me to try to accomplish at my first AZSA match. " Safety first, followed by FUN."

[Mogorilla]

Some good ideas here.    I use the white paint on my C&B revolvers and my R&D cylinder for the Remington.   For the R&D, it makes it easy for everyone to watch, as it has white on the back plate and the cylinder.    I used to just take a nipple off and only have 5 on the cylinder.  Then came the day I of course loaded that stinking cylinder.  Then it was remove the cylinder, get nipple wrench, etc.    As to cappers.  I used to use the snail capper, then it had a malfunction and my simian nature lead to me having about 100 caps sprinkle over my boots and a snail capper that will never go back together.  I now use the straight line cappers.   I think I have 10 or 11 of them.    They fit nicely in a belt pouch.   I am now trying to make paper cartridges, check out the darkside den for a link to a new kit that works nicely.    I will probably make some wood holders and an original paper cover for several.  If I do that, they will go in the belt pouch and I will find somewhere else for the caps.

[Robert Swartz]

I assume you're talking a cowboy shoot?  A trapdoor single shot (although cool)
would be a tremendous time disadvantage, compared to a lever action that holds
10 rounds


                                      BTB

....yep, not gonna set any records. So,  maybe I ought to stay home, huh! We're not shooting for money or prizes. I'm just going to pop some steel, hang out with some new found friends, tell some tall tales and maybe even start some good natured trouble. Besides, somebody's got to be last......

[Dusty Tagalon]

One thing I see wrong here, 1873 Springfield, not a main match gun! Need a lever action to complete in NCOWS! You can use the 1873 Springfield in long range, but no category cap & ball revolvers with 1873 Springfield.

[Ridge Runner]

The 1873 Springfield could be used if modified to shoot a pistol caliber round.  Otherwise, no.

[Major 2]

Your few toes in the water approach, shows you have a good grasp....

As suggested , get a small folding table , so you don't invade the main loading table with your C&B paraphernalia .

If you want to have a rifle that dates to your C&B's or OT's  consider a Henry or 66 or a Spencer....


I have this one
https://www.uline.com/Product/Detail/H-7421/Uline-Chairs-Tables-and-Wagon/Deluxe-Folding-Table

[Robert Swartz]

Your few toes in the water approach, shows you have a good grasp....

As suggested , get a small folding table , so you don't invade the main loading table with your C&B paraphernalia .

If you want to have a rifle that dates to your C&B's or OT's  consider a Henry or 66 or a Spencer....


I have this one
https://www.uline.com/Product/Detail/H-7421/Uline-Chairs-Tables-and-Wagon/Deluxe-Folding-Table

Like I have stated. Competing isn't my plan for now. Show up, have a good time and pop some steel. Above was mentioning the Trapdoor needing the caliber changed? The CAS group we shoot with is under the umbrella of our BP club. Members cross over between the clubs. Some know me and what I'm bringing. I've built gallery loads, so it doesn't destroy targets. My running buddy wants to compete. I'm hoping I can help him get there. Me, ahh, I'm not as motivated. Like I said somebody's got to be last, lol.....

[Ridge Runner]

I guess your local posse could make a local exception, but NCOWS rules state pistol caliber rifle.