Pungo Posse's WASA Style Match

Western Action Shootists Association

In December we will shoot a WASA Style Match. We will use WASA Match Rules but with a few firearm exceptions. We feel these exceptions will allow the maximum number of shooters to try their hand at shooting our WASA Style Match with guns they already own. Depending on how well the members respond to this style of shooting we will consider holding additional WASA Rules Matches. The Pungo Posse will allow the following firearm exceptions:

1. Any double-action revolver that is similar to a pistol that was in production in 1916 may be used. The use of swing-out cylinders or crane cylinders will be permitted. Fixed or adjustable sights will also be permitted. (Examples of allowable firearms: S&W fixed sight Models M& P, # 10, 64, 65 or S&W adjustable sight Models #15 & 19, Colt New Service Revolver or Police Positive Revolver or other similar style revolvers) Standard factory barrel configurations only, no extra heavy bull or slab sided barrels will be allowed. No Modern Target or Combat Grips made of wood or rubber may be used. All loading shall be done by hand. The use of any aid to assist in loading a revolver is prohibited. (Example of prohibited items: a speed loader, strip loader, a half moon or full moon clip).

2. Semiautomatic pistols, in addition to WASA approved semi-auto pistols we will allow you to use any 1911 pattern semi-auto with fixed or adjustable sights. (Examples of firearms okay to use: Kimber Target Master, Colt Gold Cup, Springfield Combat Master or other similar style semi-auto pistols. They can be any barrel length from 3½”to a 5” barrel.) No target style grips, or rubber grips may be used.

Shooting Classifications:

1. SHOOTIST – Single Action Pistol may be cocked, aimed, and fired using both hands.
2. DUELIST – Single Action Pistol shall be aimed and fired using only one hand. A second hand may be used to support the pistol during cocking, but aiming and firing shall be performed with one unsupported hand.
3. GUNFIGHTER – Single Action Pistols shall be cocked, aimed, and fired with a pistol in each hand. Pistols are fired in an alternating method. At no time may both pistols be cocked at the same time.
4. CLASSIC DOUBLE ACTION - Double action revolvers, which may be fired either single or double action. Shooters may employ two classic double action pistols, but may not employ the Gunfighter style.
5. SELFLOADING - Semiautomatic pistols may be aimed and fired with either one hand or both hands. Participants may employ a single autoloading pistol with an extra clip, two autoloading pistols, or an autoloading pistol and any other WASA-legal main match handgun. Autoloading pistols may not be fired in the Gunfighter style.

THERE WILL BE NO DISTINCTION BY AGE OR GENDER WITHIN THESE CLASSIFICATIONS

If you have a gun you want to use but are not sure if it will be allowed; call me to obtain a ruling prior to bringing it to the match. 757-471-6190

VB Southpaw

WESTERN ACTION SHOOTISTS ASSOCIATION RULE BOOK

A brief history and explanation of the Western Action Shootists Association Rules.

In early February 1998, a small group of cowboy shooters, led by Bull Schmitt, got together and formed a new shooting organization. At the time, the organization did not have a name, but the organizers did have a purpose. What this group wanted was a cowboy shooting organization that was international in scope, financially nonprofit, and democratic in nature. They did not feel animosity toward other established organizations, but they did feel that it was time for the participants in our sport began defining what the sport should look like in the coming millennia.

Recognizing that a membership-developed set of rules was the most important element of this new organization, a Rules Committee was formed prior to any other business at hand. The By-Laws of the Rules Committee was deceptively simple - "Develop a set of rules which has been defined and approved by our membership." Over time, the Rules Committee took on several members, who were to struggle with this By-Law. A special thanks to Cole Younger, Tensleep Bill, Buckshot Tuck, Rookie Rick, Slow Hand Luke, Rebel Morgan, One Horse, Sundown Jones, and Riley.

Developing the rules has been a difficult and time consuming process for all involved, and has caused some unfortunate range wars, personal insults, and resignations. On the other hand, this has also been a time of great learning. The combined experiences and wisdom of all our members has caused a synergistic effect. The sum of the whole has indeed become greater than the sum of the individuals. Democracy works.

The rules you see below were not written or dictated by either the Rules or Executive Committees. They were developed by the thousands of suggestions, comments, and arguments presented by the members of the Western Action Shootists Association. There is not one member of either of these committees who completely agrees with all of the rules below, but they have committed themselves to provide our membership with what they have asked for, even if it meant going against their own beliefs and feelings. This integrity should be acknowledged.

The overwhelming wishes of our members were as follows:

Keep the rules simple.
Allow local clubs as much autonomy as possible.
Allow as many firearms as possible.
Do not write the rules in the attempt to address the "Gamesters" in our sport, and finally,
Let's have FUN!!.

SECTION I - DESCRIPTION AND PURPOSE:

The purpose of the Western Action Shootists Association is to provide a safe, enjoyable, and competitive shooting environment for all participants. This wonderful shooting sport is dedicated to the remembrance of the costumes, history, culture, and firearms of the "cowboy era" (Generally defined as the years between 1865 and 1900). The following rules cover the firearms, accouterments, shooting classifications, clothing, and general safety rules used by clubs affiliated with the Western Action Shootists Association.
The reason for these rules is to provide all participants with an understanding of what the majority of Western Action Shootists Association members want, need, and have asked for in the sport of western action shooting. These agreed upon rules allow for a wide choice of firearms and period costuming, while also providing for commonly understood safe match practices. Secondarily, these rules attempt to provide an uncomplicated "level playing field" for all participants.
These rules are intended for all Western Action Shootists Association regional, national, and international sanctioned matches. Used as such, local clubs may not alter these rules in a manner which diminishes the intent of any rule, but all clubs are encouraged to experiment (in any safe manner) and to expand on these rules. For instance, a local club could not delete the requirement for a "Gunfighter" classification. This would be diminishing a rule, but a club could include several sub-categories in this classification (Seniors, Juniors, Women, etc.). This would be one example of expanding the rules to allow and encourage experimentation. It is expected that clubs that wish to experiment with these rules would keep the Western Action Shootists Association membership informed as to the results of the experiment. This is what the Western Action Shootists Association is all about. If a club is in doubt as to whether a change to the rules is "diminishing," the Western Action Shootists Association Board of Directors will provide guidance as requested.

SECTION II - SAFETY GUIDELINES:

It is not the intent of this section to fully describe all firearm safety rules, nor to provide instructions on how to set up and operate a safe range. It is expected that any group wishing to participate in this sport will have a well-developed range safety program, with trained and responsible range officials overseeing all aspects of any match. Rather, these are general guidelines, which are expected to be enforced at any Western Action Shootists Association sanctioned match. It is the responsibility of the organization hosting the Western Action Shootists Association match to see that all necessary steps are taken to ensure that a safe shooting environment is provided.
For each match, one person shall be designated as the Match Director. The Match Director shall have overall responsibility for ensuring the match is operated in a safe and fun manner. The Match Director will provide rules interpretation for a particular match, and will act as the final decision authority in any disagreements between participants. If the existing rules do not specify penalties for specific safety violations, the Match Director shall determine the appropriate penalty.
One of the concerns common to all modern shooting sports is that some provision be made for the protection of human hearing and eyesight. Participants and spectators at Western Action Shootists Association live-fire events are strongly recommended to seek professional advice concerning proper eye and hearing protection prior to attending a match. The Western Action Shootists Association strongly recommends the use of adequate hearing and eye protection so judged by the participant's own professional advisors, who are competent to make such recommendations. Many associations and clubs require that such protection be worn - for example, "All participants and spectators shall wear eye protection when they are within 60 meters (200 feet) of the firing line.", and The Western Action Shootists Association commends them on that decision.
Firearms shall be loaded only under the direction of a designated match official.
Loaded firearms shall not be carried away from the loading area or firing line.
Unloaded firearms shall not be unnecessarily handled away from the firing line.
All revolvers shall be loaded with the hammer resting on an empty chamber, and autoloaders shall be loaded with the chamber empty.
Long guns shall be transported by hand, unloaded, with the actions visibly open, and in carts unloaded. Handguns are transported unloaded in a holster, pouch, or case.
Participants shall maintain proper and safe control of their firearms.
A dropped firearm (loaded or unloaded) will result in the participant being disqualified from the match.
Pointing a loaded firearm (intentionally or otherwise) at any participant or spectator will result in the offending participant being disqualified from the match.
Any ammunition dropped during competition is considered "dead," and shall not be retrieved by the participant during competition.
An accidental discharge in a safe direction shall result in the participant being disqualified from the stage. Any accidental discharge in an unsafe direction (over a berm, etc.) will result in the participant being disqualified from the match.
Participants should consult with their medical health care provider as to the wisdom of participating in sports while medicated. Recreational drug use is forbidden to match participants and guests. Such use shall have no place at the site of firearm competitions. This means, for example, alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, and heroin are certainly out, but common sense says that for most people, caffeine and nicotine are not part of this category. Failure to list any drug substance in any rule list does not infer Western Action Shootists Association authorization for its use. Registered participants, who are, in the opinion of a Range Officer or other persons of ordinary ability and reasonable firmness, clearly under the influence or impaired, shall not be permitted to continue. Western Action Shootists Association Range Officers and Match Directors are not qualified to test for drug presence in bodily fluids, and are not expected to perform these tasks.
"Fanning" of pistols is not permitted.
Firearms shall not be cocked until they are pointed safely down range.
Cap and ball revolvers may be charged away from the loading table, but shall be capped only at the loading table.

SECTION III - MATCH GUIDELINES

SCORING

Either the "Rank Point" or "Total Time" scoring systems may be used in any Western Action Shootists Association sanctioned match.
A five-second penalty shall be awarded for each missed target.
A ten-second penalty shall be awarded for each (non-safety related) procedural violation. Only one procedural penalty may be awarded for any single stage

SHOOTING CLASSIFICATIONS

1. SHOOTIST - Pistol may be cocked, aimed, and fired using both hands.

2. DUELIST - Pistol shall be aimed and fired using only one hand. A second hand may be used to support the pistol during cocking, but aiming and firing shall be performed with one unsupported hand.

3. GUNFIGHTER - Pistols shall be cocked, aimed, and fired with a pistol in each hand. Pistols are fired in an alternating method. At no time may both pistols be cocked at the same time. (Note: The Executive Committee strongly encourages all members wishing to shoot in this classification to thoroughly practice all the skills necessary to shoot in this classification prior to entering competition. As with participants who use cross-draw holsters and twist-draws, participants using this style of shooting will receive extra scrutiny during competition).

The Gunfighter style may be used on almost any regular stage (see exceptions below). Since side matches are specialized, the use of this style for side matches will be at the discretion of the designated range official.
Loading Procedures

Stage requiring one pistol: Two cartridges are loaded into one pistol, three cartridges in the second pistol. Targets are engaged in the order described by the stage direction.
Stage requiring two pistols (one after the other): Five cartridges are loaded into each pistol. Targets are engaged in the order described by the stage direction.
Stage requiring two pistols (pistols separated by shotgun and/or rifle): Five cartridges are loaded into each pistol. The first five rounds are shot in the order described by the stage direction. Both pistols are holstered (the hammer will be resting on a spent cartridge). Shotgun and/or rifle is fired per stage direction. Both pistols are unholstered and targets are engaged in the order described by the stage direction.
Stages requiring a reload: If only one cartridge is reloaded the participant shall reholster one pistol and load the single cartridge into the unholstered pistol (it does not matter which pistol is holstered). If more than one cartridge is to be reloaded, the participant must split the cartridges evenly between both pistols (only one pistol may be unholstered during reloading). If the stage requires a reload and "blind spin" of the cylinder, the participant will use only one pistol and shoot those cartridges as a Duelist (only one gun used).
If, at any time, a Gunfighter has a pistol malfunction, he/she will stop shooting, point BOTH the pistols down range, and state in a clear voice, "I have a malfunction." At that time, a designated range official will step forward and assist the Gunfighter. AT NO TIME WILL A MALFUNCTIONING PISTOL BE RETURNED TO LEATHER. AT NO TIME WILL THE PARTICIPANT ATTEMPT TO CLEAR A MALFUNCTION ALONE. A re-shoot of the stage will be at the discretion of the designated range official.
Stages that require the participant to continuously handle props or maintain a handhold for safety (i.e. riding a bouncing stage coach) will require the participant to shoot this stage as a "Double-Duelist". This means the participant fires the first pistol with one hand; holsters that pistol; and fires the second pistol with the other hand. The stage directions must clearly state that the Gunfighter style may NOT be used on that particular stage. The individual participant will NOT make this decision.

4. CLASSIC DOUBLE ACTION - Double action revolvers, which may be fired either single or double action.

Original and reproduction double action revolvers of pre-1916 design may be employed.
Shooters may employ a single WASA-legal classic double-action handgun. Reloading shall be by hand and shall conform to the requirement that the hammer be rested on an unloaded cylinder or expended round except when in use. Moon clips, speed loaders, and other such loading aids shall not be employed during a stage.
Shooters may employ two classic double action pistols, but may not employ the Gunfighter style.
Shooters may employ a single classic double-action pistol and any other WASA-legal main match handgun. Shooters employing a Classic Double action pistol and an autoloader are entered in the Modern Division. All relevant safety rules concerning the non-double action handgun continue to apply.

5. SELFLOADING - Semiautomatic pistols.

Original and reproduction self-loading pistols of pre-1916 design may be employed.
The handgun may be aimed and fired with either one hand or both hands. Participants may employ a single autoloading pistol, two autoloading pistols, or an autoloading pistol and any other WASA-legal main match handgun.
Participants employing a single autoloader may reload during the stage by inserting a loaded magazine into the pistol and/or employing a stripper clip. Magazines and clips shall be generally of the type and appearance of pre-1916 magazines. Reloading must conform to the requirement of empty chambers except during use. (Example: A Modern shooter is participating in a stage where the two sets of pistol targets are separated by movement and/or the use of another weapon. At the conclusion of the first set of pistol targets, the shooter should extract the expended magazine and then release the slide to close the action on an empty chamber before holstering the pistol and proceeding with movement or the next weapon. Only when shooter is ready to begin the second set of pistol targets is a loaded magazine or clip employed and the chamber filled with a live round. However, if the Shooter is participating in a stage where both set of pistol targets are to be fired upon in direct sequence, the Shooter may extract the expended magazine, insert a fresh magazine, close the action and engage the second set of targets.)
A magazine or clip dropped to the ground may not be recovered by the shooter or used any further during the stage.
A shooter may reload a magazine or clip during the stage, drawing ammunition from a belt, pouch, or any other WASA-legal location. However, pistols shall be safely and securely holstered during the reloading of magazines or clips.
Autoloading pistols may not be fired in the Gunfighter style.
Where a non-autoloader is used in combination with an autoloader, all relevant safety rules regarding the non-autoloader continue to apply.

SIDE MATCHES

0. Long Range Rifle - Shooting classifications for the Long-range Side Match will be designated at the Match Director's discretion but the Western Action Shootists Association recommends the following:

Lever Action - Pistol Caliber
Lever Action - Rifle Caliber
Single Shot
Open (bolt actions, pumps etc.)

SECTION IV - FIREARMS

Except for some of the rifles used in Long Range matches, double-action revolvers and semiautomatic pistols, firearms used should be originals or reproductions of pre-1900 firearms found in the Western USA, Mexico, or Canada at that time. Any firearm that is visually similar to an original may be used. The firearm should at least look like a close copy of an original or something that could have been an original. "New Thunderers," and Webleys (such as the Mark VI), are examples of "look alike" firearms that would be permitted.
All firearms must be in safe shooting condition and be legal to possess and shoot in the local jurisdiction where they are used.
Reasonable external modifications are allowed. "Reasonable" of course, tends to be defined by the individual participant. Permitted modifications are currently, and will continue to be, a much-discussed issue in the world of western action shooting. The intent of the "Reasonable Rule" is to essentially prevent external modification to any firearm, which might give the participant a competitive advantage. In the end, it is the individual's personal integrity which will define "reasonable."
Magnaport®, other barrel venting, or compensators are not allowed. Sights and hammers may be changed, but they must resemble originals. Grips can be changed, but modern soft rubber types or finger grooves are not allowed. No oversize grips (in the sense of modern target grips) are allowed. This rule should not be seen as permission to externally "modify " equipment to gain an edge over fellow competitors. A shooter with large hands has better control with slightly larger grips and it is permitted to make the firearm more user friendly to the shooter. The same can be true with the use of bird's-head grips by small-handed shooters.
PISTOLS:

Any pistol or replica thereof, that was in production prior to 1900. This includes cap and ball, cap and ball conversions, single-action cartridge revolvers, double-action revolvers, and semiautomatic pistols being used in their appropriate shooting classification. The use of swing-out or crane cylinders is permitted. All loading shall be done by hand. The use of any aid to assist in loading is prohibited.
Any double-action or semiautomatic pistol, or replica thereof, that was in production prior to 1916.
The use of swing-out or crane cylinders is permitted. All loading shall be done by hand. The use of any aid to assist in loading is prohibited.
Minimum caliber is .30 center fire. All ammunition must use lead alloy bullets. Pistol ammo must have a maximum velocity not exceeding 1000 feet per second. Reactive pistol targets should be calibrated to fall with a hit on the top half with any legal Western Action Shootists Association load.

POCKET PISTOLS AND DERRINGERS:

A pocket pistol or derringer is any double or single action handgun meeting the "like those in use" criteria with the following restrictions:
Caliber .22 rim fire or larger
Maximum barrel length is 4 inches.

RIFLES:

For Main Match, any lever action, slide action or revolving rifle (or replica thereof) that was in production prior to 1900 is permitted. Receiver mounted sights are not permitted. Period styled tang sights are permitted. Minimum caliber is .25. All ammunition must be pistol caliber or equivalent. All ammunition must use lead alloy bullets. Rifle ammunition must have a maximum velocity not exceeding 1400 feet per second. All loading shall be done by hand. The use of any aid to assist in loading is prohibited.

SHOTGUNS:

Any lever action, slide action, double-barreled (side by side) or single barreled shotgun (or replica thereof) that was in production prior to 1900 is permitted. Ejectors on all shotguns are permitted. Gauge must be no less than 20, and no larger than 10. All shotguns shall be loaded "on the clock." There is no limit to the number of shells that can be loaded on the clock. All loading shall be done by hand. The use of any aid to assist in loading is prohibited.

RIFLES - LONG RANGE SIDE MATCH:

Providing it is chambered for a pre-1900 caliber such as 45-70, 38-55, 30-30,7.62 x 54R, 30 Govt., etc., any single shot, lever action, slide action or bolt action rifle (or replica thereof) that was in production prior to 1900 is permitted. Receiver sights are not permitted. Period styled tang sights are permitted. Telescopic sights are not permitted.
Steel or iron core bullets are not permitted. Copper Jacketed bullets are allowed if the club has targets that have been safely constructed and positioned. It is strongly recommended that clubs wishing to use jacketed bullets adopt the standard international metallic silhouette rules (Silhouette rules concern the proper construction and maintenance of targets). Otherwise, only lead alloy bullets should be used. Gas checks are permitted.

SECTION V - CLOTHING, ACCOUTERMENTS, ETC.

CLOTHING

Since most western residents were not cowboys, a wide variety of clothing is acceptable. Period dress is encouraged and ranges from that of the early 1800's through that of B-western movies and TV programs. All participants are encouraged to wear some sort of headgear. Cowboy hats, Bowlers, Coonskin caps, Shawls, Bonnets, etc. are acceptable. Levis, Wranglers, etc. are acceptable, but designer type jeans are not. No tennis shoes, T-shirts, or baseball caps are permitted.

ACCOUTERMENTS

Holsters belts, etc. shall be in keeping with your chosen western attire and be constructed of the type of material originally used. Holsters must safely retain the gun during all movement. All pistols must be carried holstered. A holster is required for each pistol. If holsters are not available for two pistols, the second pistol may be staged safely at the appropriate location designated by the match officials. Double same side holsters are not permitted. Cross draw and shoulder holsters are acceptable if worn and used in a safe manner. Metal or plastic inserts should not be used in shotgun or cartridge loops. Ammunition belts should not tilt away from the body. No ammunition may be carried on a firearm. All ammunition to be used during a stage must be carried in belts, pockets, shotgun shell holders or pouches. If pouches are to be used, they should be "period " in design and construction. Pre-1900 Military style or "possibles bag" types are examples of allowed pouches. Holsters and shotgun belts must be worn in traditional locations as was usual and customary prior to 1900.

The Western Action Shootists Association

PO Box 51983

Palo Alto CA 94303-0744