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By-Law 1: Membership
By-Law 2: Officers
By-Law 3: Governance
By-Law 4: Elections
By-Law 6: NCOWS Affiliations
By-Law 7: Authenticity
By-Law 8: Vendors and Dealers
By-Law 9: Insurance
By-Law 10: Rules and Regulations
NCOWS RULES AND REGULATIONS
Approved
Cartridge Firearms
Revolvers, Reproductions
Pocket Pistol
Rifles, Reproductions
Shotguns, Reproduction
Not allowed are the following:
Revolvers
Rifles
Shotguns
Gun Modifications
Holsters
Clothing and Accouterments
Range Rules and Regulations
Safety and Procedure Rules
NCOWS Rules for Air Horns and Flags
Appendix A: Rule and Regulations for the Original Class
Resolved, that the National Congress of Old West Shootists is a not-for-profit living history and shooting organization formed of individuals and affiliated member units to promote interest in the period of American History known as the "Old West," specifically the period from 1865 to 1899. (All NCOWS rules and regulations are subject to all applicable Federal, State and Local laws.)
1-1. Any responsible person, 18 years of age or over, may become a full member of this organization after application and payment of the usual initiation fee and/or dues. Membership shall not be denied because of sex, age, religion, race, national origin or physical handicap.
1-2. Organizations and clubs seeking Charter Membership shall comply with the National Congress of Old West Shootists Constitution and By-Laws.
1-3. Charter Club Membership. Charter Clubs will be known as Posses. Any
organization or shooting club wishing to become a Posse of the National Congress
of Old West Shootists may apply for Charter Membership, which shall be granted
when that organization has satisfied the Territorial Congress that it adheres to
and will abide by the purpose, goals, rules and regulations of the National
Congress of Old West Shootists in the conduct of National Congress of Old West
Shootists-sanctioned activities. All Posse events shall be sanctioned events and
shall adhere to all bylaws and regulations. Any posse wishing to vary from the
rules and regulations must petition the Executive Committee for a specific
waiver for that event. Said petition shall include detailed statements of need
and justification for the waiver. Each Posse shall be free to set its own
standards of membership within the limits set by the National Congress of Old
West Shootists. New Posses will pay a $35.00 Charter Fee. Posse Charters are
renewable on an annual (1 January - 31 December) basis. The yearly renewal fee
is $35.00. Renewal forms, including a current Posse membership list with NCOWS
Membership numbers and list of officers shall be returned to the National office
by 1 January of each year. At least fifty per cent (50%) of the members and 100%
of the officers of any Posse must be active, dues-paying members of the National
Congress of Old West Shootists. After their first year and thereafter Posses
must maintain a minimum membership of five (5) members to remain an active posse
and must maintain a minimum of twelve (12) members to receive insurance
benefits. (See also By-Law 9). Posses may be reimbursed up to one hundred
dollars($100)per year for their advertising of NCOWS Posse events. This
reimbursement can be for media ads or for table rental at gun shows where the
Posse promotes NCOWS. Receipts for such paid advertising can be submitted to the
NCOWS Banker. All Posses must carry a minimum of $1000,000 liability insurance
policy and provide copies of such insurance policies to the NCOWS Banker and
Secretary whether they are participating in the insurance reimbursement or not.
Posses not meeting these requirements shall not have their representative
recognized at the next Territorial Congress Meeting. Posses shall have 30 days
after written notice to meet these requirements or face having their Posse
Charter revoked.
1-4. Membership Classifications, Dues & Fees
1-4-a. MEMBER. Any responsible person at least 18 years of age--full membership rights, including the rights to vote and to hold office. Individual Dues are $35.00/year.
1-4-b. FAMILY MEMBERSHIP. Husband, wife,
and all dependent children less than 18 years of age at the time dues are
paid--full membership rights for husband and wife (if dues are paid for both):
dependents have the same rights as do other JUNIOR MEMBERS. Dependents 18 years
of age or older at the time dues are paid and who are not full-time students
must maintain separate individual membership. Family Dues are $35.00/year plus
$10.00 for each additional family member listed.
1-4-c. JUNIOR MEMBER. Any responsible youth less than 18 years of age at the time dues are first paid. A Junior Member must be sponsored by an adult MEMBER who shall be responsible for overseeing the Junior Member's activities. Junior Members hold full membership rights except the right to vote or to hold office. Junior Dues are $15.00/Year.
1-4-d. SENIOR MEMBER. Any Full Member who has attained the age of sixty (60) years. FULL TIME STUDENT. Any Full Member who is registered as a full-time student at any accredited institution of higher education. FIXED INCOME: Any Full Member who, due to retirement, disability, or for any other reason, is on a fixed income. Senior Citizens (age 60 or older), full-time students, and others on a fixed income shall pay dues of $30.00 a year.
1-4-e. HONORARY MEMBER. May be bestowed upon a worthy former member or other deserving individual by the membership--full membership rights except the right to vote or to hold office. Requires no payment of dues. Honorary memberships are a one-year membership and are renewable on a yearly basis by the Executive Committee.
1-4-f. CHARTER MEMBER. Those active members officially members as of 30 December 1994 shall be recognized as CHARTER MEMBERS. They will be so recognized on the membership rolls and in other ways as might be deemed appropriate by the membership.
1-4-g. INDIVIDUAL LIFE MEMBERSHIP. Any responsible person at least 18 years of age--full membership rights for life, including the rights to vote and to hold office. Individual Life dues are $500.00.
1-5. The Territorial Congress may create other categories of membership by a two-thirds (2/3) vote when a quorum is present.
1-6. Dues shall be paid on a calendar year basis. If dues are not paid within thirty (30) days of their coming due, the member will be dropped from the membership rolls. Reinstatement will be made upon payment of dues owed and any reinstatement fee.
1-7. The Executive Committee has the authority to reduce membership dues for a special event for promotional purposes.
1-8. A member must have dues paid and possess a current membership card (or receipt for dues) in order to be eligible to vote, hold office, participate in shoots or events as a member, or to enjoy any other privileges or benefits of this organization.
2-1. The officers of this organization shall be known as Territorial Officers and shall consist of the following, elected or appointed from within and by the members of the Territorial Congress (Board of Directors); their terms and duties being described in the By-Laws.
2-1-a. The Marshal shall function as the President of the organization. The Marshal shall execute daily the edicts of the Congress, and shall preside over all General and Congressional meetings. He or she may appoint committee members as needed, subject to the approval of the Congress. In emergency situations, the Marshal may make required decisions, subject to later review by the Congress.
2-1-b. The Deputy Marshal shall function as the Vice President. Serves as acting Marshal in the absence of the Marshal. Shall serve as Sergeant-At-Arms at meetings of the Territorial Congress and General Membership.
2-1-c. The Secretary shall function as the Secretary-Historian. Maintains the records, minutes and correspondence of the organization. Edits and distributes official National Congress of Old West Shootists' publications, with the exception of The Shootist.
2-1-d. The Banker shall function as the Treasurer and shall maintain a ledger of expenses and income along with any bank statements, receipts, bills, etc. to support said ledger. He or she shall have charge of all NCOWS funds. He or she shall disburse funds to maintain the day to day operation of the organization. He or she shall disburse funds at the direction of the Executive Committee for expenses beyond day to day operating expenses. He or she shall present a detailed treasurers report to the Congress for the previous calendar year at the first Territorial Congress meeting of each year. Summary Treasurer’s reports shall be made incrementally from the last detailed report to the Executive Committee at each Executive Committee Meeting throughout the year.
2-1-e. The Judge shall function as the Chief Safety/Range Officer. Serves as Range/Safety Officer. Has the power to appoint Deputy Judges for individual events from the National Congress of Old West Shootists' membership. Appoints and Chairs the Authenticity Committee and is responsible for implementing authenticity standards.
2-1-f. The Editor shall be responsible for editing and publishing The Shootist. The position of Editor will be by Executive Committee appointment, ratified by a majority vote of the Territorial Congress. The Editor will serve until such time as the individual holding the position or the Executive Committee terminates the relationship with thirty (30) days' notice.
2-1-g. No individual shall hold more than one office or position on the Executive Committee.
2-2. The term for each officer shall be for one (1) calendar year. The officers will be elected by the Board from within the membership of the Board. In the event that an officer resigns or otherwise becomes unable to fulfill his/her duties as an officer, the Marshal (or Deputy Marshal in the absence of the Marshal) in consultation with the Executive Committee, shall appoint a replacement to serve until a new officer can be elected at the next Annual Convention.
2-3. There shall be no limit to succession in office.
2-4. These officers, plus the Chair of the Territorial Senate, elected by the Territorial Senate for a one-year term, and the Chair of the Territorial Representatives, elected by the Territorial Representatives for a one-year term, acting together, shall constitute the Executive Committee of this organization. The Executive Committee has all of the powers of the organization in the intervals between meetings with any limits established by By-Law.
2-5. The Executive Committee may establish and schedule at least one all-National Congress of Old West Shootists a year, and shall sanction and schedule other National Congress of Old West Shootists-sponsored events as proposed and run by the various Posses. The Executive Committee shall authorize an amount of $500. to be paid to the posse or posses conducting the National Shootout. The Executive Committee may also establish and schedule and annual convention and trade show of the National Congress of Old West Shootist. The Executive Committee shall authorize an amount of $1000 to be paid to the posses conducting the annual Convention.
3-1. The National Congress of Old West Shootists shall be governed by a representative body, the Territorial Congress (Board of Directors), consisting of fifteen (15) Territorial Senators elected from within the Full Membership at large, and any number of Territorial Representatives, elected by the Posses. Each Posse is entitled to elect one (1) Territorial Representative. Each Territorial Senator and Territorial Representative shall have equal voice and vote; ex-officio members have equal voice, but no vote. A Territorial Senator or Representative's duty shall only be that of a general representative, unless additional specific authority is designated by the Territorial Congress. Senators' and Representatives' terms and duties shall be further described in the By-Laws.
3-2. Any Territorial Senator or Representative who cannot attend a Territorial Congress must notify the NCOWS office or the Marshal either with the name of the NCOWS member who will be attending in his/her place (votes will be recorded as "<X> voting for <Y>") or by providing his/her written proxy to a Territorial Senator or Representative. Proxies may be general or specific in nature. Proxy votes of "Abstain" will be permitted for any/all agenda items. A separate proxy must be sent for each Territorial Congress Meeting that can not be attended, ie. No permanent proxies will be allowed. Any Territorial Senator or Representative who fails to fulfill their duties as proscribed in this paragraph shall be removed from office and may not run for re-election for a period of three (3) years. Action taken by this By-law may be rescinded at next Territorial Congress Meeting by 2/3 vote of Congress present.
3-3. The Territorial Congress shall create rules and regulations in regard to the administration, membership, financing policy, activities, and the general welfare of the National Congress of Old West Shootists. These shall be the BY-LAWS of the National Congress of Old West Shootists.
3-4. The Territorial Congress shall
determine all questions of National Congress of Old West Shootists business and
policy not specified in this Constitution and the By-Laws, and shall in all
respects be the governing body of the National Congress of Old West Shootists.
To this end, the
Congress shall be limited and bound by the provisions of this Constitution and
the Article of Incorporation in all matters, except as otherwise provided for
under the Corporation Laws of the State of Iowa.
3-5. The Territorial Congress shall act as a judicial body in regard to matters of dispute within the membership. When taking disciplinary action as described in the By-Laws, the Congress must call a special meeting to consider the question. The individual involved shall be given thirty (30) days notice in writing of the charges, and the time, date, and place of the meeting. The accused may be present, call witnesses, and offer a defense.
3-6. Further responsibilities of the Congress. The Territorial Congress shall discharge the following responsibilities:
3-6-a. Conduct the financial policies of the National Congress of Old West Shootists. An independent review of the previous years Banker’s report shall be made each year by a committee of three(3) NCOWS members appointed by the Marshal. The Banker shall provide any and all records requested by the committee.
3-6-b. Appoint individuals to be in charge of specific National Congress of Old West Shootists' functions.
3-6-c. Assess membership dues.
3-6-d. Authorize and determine the editorial and business policies of any publications established by the National Congress of Old West Shootists.
3-6-e. Approve the membership applications of the Posses seeking to join the National Congress of Old West Shootists.
3-6-f. Establish the criteria for authenticity in firearms, accouterments, and clothing for official National Congress of Old West Shootists events.
3-6-g. Approve Honorary Membership.
3-6. An Oath of Office shall be required of all members of the Territorial Congress upon taking office. The Oath will be administered by the Marshal, who shall in his/her turn, if necessary, be sworn by the Deputy Marshal. The Oath (instructions and phrases in square brackets [ ] are optional): [Right hand on Bible] I, __________, do hereby swear/affirm to uphold and abide by the Articles of Incorporation and the By-Laws of the National Congress of Old West Shootists, and to support the National Congress of Old West Shootists and represent those who have elected me to the best of my ability. [So help me, God.]
4-1. The time, the place, and the date of Territorial elections shall be determined by the Territorial Congress and announced to the membership as least sixty (60) days in advance.
4-2. Nominations for Territorial Senator must be received by the Secretary in their entirety, including the candidates' platforms, by 1 August each year. The election of Territorial Senators will be completed by 1 December each year. 4-2. Each Member is entitled to one vote.
The National Congress of Old West Shootists will establish and maintain a club affiliation with the National Rifle Association and other such organizations as the Territorial Congress deems appropriate.
7-1. It is the responsibility of the
individual to document the authenticity of all items of apparel, accouterments,
and firearms. The remainder of this by-law shall act as a general guide,
however, the Territorial Congress, in conjunction with the Authenticity
Committee, shall maintain, update and publicize specific lists of both
"Approved" and "Not-Approved" items of apparel, accouterments, and firearms.
These lists shall be made a part of this by-law and shall take precedence over
any other portion of this or any other by-laws with which they may conflict.
Questionable items may be granted temporary amnesty by the Judge on an
individual member basis (not a blanket proclamation) until said item is listed
by the Territorial Congress.
7-2. No modern (post 1899) firearms will be allowed unless they are authentic reproductions of traditional firearms or very markedly resemble traditional firearms. Traditional firearms are defined as those manufactured and/or commonly used during the 1865-1899 time period. Center-fire calibers may substitute for original rim-fire calibers in reproduction firearms. Reproduction firearms chambered in calibers not utilized in original models shall be allowed as long as such calibers are original to the period or are otherwise approved by the National Congress of Old West Shootists.
7-3. The Territorial Congress shall establish and maintain a list of firearms and calibers approved for official competition. This list will be reviewed and up-dated yearly. Members wishing to have a particular firearm or caliber added to the list must petition the Territorial Congress and supply full documentation attesting to the historical authenticity of the firearm or caliber.
7-3-a. Petitions from members seeking to add replica firearms to the "approved" list (see By-Law 10). or to seek approval of disputed items of replica apparel or equipment, shall be made through the Authenticity Committee, to be chaired by the Judge.
7-3-b. A successful petition must have at least the following: (1) a minimum of two (2) primary published references proving the historical existence of the original of the petitioned replica firearm or item. Such references must adequately describe the original item being reproduced, prove its availability, use, or manufacture for sale during the time period 1865-1899; and/or (2) A minimum of one (1) dated period photograph, woodcut, engraving, catalog, and/or advertisement of the original of the petitioned replica firearm or item, or a photograph from a collector's reference (such as Flayderman's) proving that the original of the replica firearm or item did exist and could have been used during the period 1865-1899; and/or (3) an actual artifact representative of the petitioned replica firearm or item, properly authenticated and documented as to time period.
7-3-c. The Authenticity Committee may refer any petition back to the petitioner for additional information or evidence. The Authenticity Committee shall report its recommendation in writing, including all evidence, to the Territorial Congress within ninety (90) days after receiving the petition. The Territorial Congress shall then accept or deny the petition at the next Congress Meeting after receiving the recommendation of the Authenticity Committee.
7-3-d. An unsuccessful petitioner may appeal the decision of the Authenticity Committee to the Territorial Congress.
7-4. Only historically appropriate small
conveyances for competitors' firearms and shooting supplies will be allowed
(e.g., no converted golf carts, modern shooting carts, etc.). Visible ammunition
containers and shooting supplies and equipment shall be consistent with
historical
authenticity. No plastic ammo boxes shall be visible at any time.
8-1. Vendors wishing to sell merchandise or services at National Congress of Old West Shootists-sponsored events must obtain permission from the Judge or his/her Deputy. Such permission will be conditional on the vendor satisfying the requirements of this By-Law.
8-2. Vendors wishing to sell merchandise or provide services in the immediate visual area of the shooting participants and spectators may only display and sell original or authenticated replica goods or services of the period 1865-1899. The seller and his/her employees shall be appropriately dressed and accoutered for the time period, and their display of merchandise (including shelters) shall be appropriate to the historical period.
8-3. Vendors wishing to sell merchandise or services of a general "Western" nature but who do not or cannot conform to the stipulations of By-Law 8-2 may do so if sequestered from the immediate visual vicinity of the shooting range participants and spectators.
8-4. All commercial vendors may be assessed a set-up fee which may be paid in cash. Such fees shall be determined by the National Congress of Old West Shootists or the Posse sponsoring the sanctioned event, and shall be appropriate for the size and scope of the event.
8-5. Individual NCOWS members may from time to time display and offer for sale appropriately authentic items at meetings and shoots without otherwise being subject to the restrictions placed on commercial vendors.
9-1. All posses shall be required to maintain liability insurance coverage as provided by this by-law and to the level established by NCOWS.
9-2. The Executive Committee shall secure and maintain a general liability policy for the overall organization to protect the corporation in the event of litigation and to cover the location of the National Shoot and the Convention.
9-3. In the event that the number of members in the posse exceeds the base policy, then the individual posses shall make up the difference between the payment and the premium.
9-4. NCOWS will reimburse Posses for the basic minimum charge for such liability insurance if they have and maintain 100% NCOWS membership. Posses with less than 100% NCOWS membership will be reimbursed at half the current rate.
10-1. All NCOWS shooting classes, as established by By-Law, must be made available to all shooters at each National, Regional or Charter Posse Shoot. These classes shall be:
Men’s and Women’s Smokeless Shootist: Shooters may shoot smokeless powder and may fire handguns using a two-handed grip.
Men’s and Women’s Blackpowder Shootist: Shooters must shoot blackpowder or approved blackpowder substitute powder in all firearms except those chambered for rimfire cartridges, and may fire handguns using a two-handed grip. Shotguns may NOT include any model of pump shotgun.
Men’s and Women’s Smokeless Duelist: Shooters may shoot smokeless powder and must fire handguns using a one-handed grip.
Men’s and Women’s Blackpowder Duelist: Shooters must shoot blackpowder or approved black powder substitute in all firearms except those chambered for rimfire cartridges, and must fire handguns using a one-handed grip. Shotguns may NOT include any model of pump shotgun.
Men’s and Women’s Pistoleer: Shooters are restricted to the use of percussion revolvers, pre-1873 percussion or original/authentic reproductions of rimfire cartridge pocket pistols, exposed-hammer double-barrel shotguns (percussion or cartridge), and reproduction or original pre-1873 pistol-caliber repeating rifles (e.g. 1860 Henry, Spencer, 1866 Winchester, etc: Shooters must shoot blackpowder or approved blackpowder substitute powder in all firearms except those chambered for rimfire cartridges. Pistols and revolvers must be shot one-handed. Pistoleer shooters will shoot the same course of fire as the other competitors except that in a stage requiring more than two shotgun rounds the Pistoleer shooter would not be required to shoot the extra rounds.
Men’s and Women’s Seniors: Shall be open to those over age 60 only, may use any of the above shooting styles.
Men’s and Women’s Elder: Shall be open to those over the age of 70 only, may use any of the above shooting styles.
Boy’s and Girl’s Juniors: Shall be open to those age 12 to 17 only, may use any of the above shooting styles.
Men’s and Women’s Working Cowboy: Shooter uses one pistol and one pistol caliber rifle. Smokeless or Black Powder cartridges may be used. No gun carts are to be used at any time. Pistol may be fired with one or two hands.
Men and Women’s Originals: Shooter uses two (2) guns, any combination of NCOWS approved firearms to complete the course of fire. Must have three(3) originals present to have the class. For complete rules and regulations see Appendix A at the back of the Tally Book.
In addition to these classes, Chartered Clubs and special events may offer additional classes so long as they adhere to the general outline of these By-Laws.
10-2. Smokeless powder loads shall not exceed the maximum muzzle velocities of comparable black powder loads,e.g. 1500 fps for single shot cartridge rifles; 1300 fps for lever action rifles; 1000fps for handguns. Smokeless loads may be chronographed and certified by the Judge before the shooter will be allowed to compete. No loading below manufacture’s recommendation. Minimum velocity for any main match firearm is 600fps or published loading data.
10-3. The Territorial Congress, in conjunction with the Authenticity Committee and Executive Committee, shall establish and maintain official NCOWS Rules and Regulations to govern approved firearms, calibers, and load, and clothing and accouterments, and range rules and regulations.
No matt-finished or brushed-finish stainless steel firearms are allowed except as specifically exempted in these Rules and Regulations, e.g. only those stainless steel firearms whose finish resembles an original nickel-plated finish.
No modern commemorative firearms shall be allowed
Projectiles shall be cast lead or lead alloy. No metal-jacketed projectiles shall be permitted. Muzzleloaders shall use round ball or elongated projectiles if such were original to the firearm.
Muzzleloading percussion firearms shall be original to the period or authentic reproductions.
Cartridge firearms shall be original to the period or authentic reproductions of original makes and models. “Short-stroke” modifications to lever-action firearms are not allowed.
Sights for all firearms shall be of original design or configuration.
Approved calibers and loads include any that were introduced prior to or during the period of 1865-1899 and that were originally introduced as a black powder load. Common examples include but are not limited to: .22 rimfire, .32-20 WCF, .32 S&W Short, .32 S&W Long, .38-40 WCF, .44-40 WCF, .44 S&W American, .44 S&W Russian, .45 Long Colt, .45 S&W, .45-70 Government. Any cartridge designation that was not originally introduced as a black powder load will not be allowed except for appropriate firearms in the smokeless cartridge division only, or for specifically-designated shooting events. .38 Special/.357 Magnum and .44 Special/.44 Magnum cartridges will be allowed if loaded with black powder or with smokeless powder to black powder velocities.
.22 caliber hand guns for main stages are to be pocket pistol/derringers only. .22 revolvers and rifles are restricted in use for specialty shoots only.
Single-Shot cartridge rifles shall weigh no more than twenty (20) pounds for official NCOWS competition.
SAA 1873 Colt clones by EMF, Navy Arms, Cimarron, Uberti, Armi San Marco, EAA ,and Beretta.
Colt Bisley models distributed by EMF, Navy Arms, and Cimarron.
Colt 1873 Target models distributed by Navy Arms.
Colt 1872 Open Top Models distributed by EMF, Cimarron, and Navy Arms.
Conversion Models distributed by Cimarron, Navy Arms, & others.
Ruger Full-size Vaquero and new Ruger Vaquero.
Remington 1875 and 1890 SA manufactured by Armi San Marco, Beretta, & Uberti.
Smith & Wessons distributed by Navy Arms, Cimarron and others.
Conversion cylinders by Kirst and R&D.
Taurus Gaucho, and Colt Cowboy.
Colt models 1889, 1892,1894,1895,1896,1901,1903, and Colt New Police.
Webley revolvers with Birds-head or Banana grips eg. (MK1, MK2, MK4, MK5)
Any approved hand gun with 4 inch barrel or shorter; any approved pistol caliber.
Winchester Models 1860, 1866, 1873, 1886, and 1892 manufactured by Armi San Marco, Uberti, and others.
Winchester ’94s if they retain the physical characteristics and appearance of 1894 models manufactured prior to 1899, in approved cartridges.
Marlin ’94 and ’95s if they retain the same appearance as the originals prior to 1899, and as long as they are chambered in approved calibers/cartridges and safe in operation.
Colt Lighting models by Tri-Star and the
Taurus Thunderbolt and US Firearms Lightning clone and Beretta Gold Rush
Carbine.
Spencer, all models.
Sharps by Pedersoli, Armscor, and others.
Remington Rolling Blocks.
Winchester 1885 High and Low Wall.
Ballard, all models.
Springfield 1873 Trapdoor, all models.
Remington Hepburn models.
Marlin 1894CB in32H&R Magnum.
Taylor & Companies “73” in 32H&R.
Taylor & Companies “66” in 32H&R.
Winchester 1897 pumps by Norinco and Tri-Star.
Side-by-Side/Double Barrels: approved models are too numerous to list here.
Winchester 1887 lever-action 12 ga.
IAC 1887 replica lever-action shotgun.
IAC 1893 replica pump shotgun.
Single trigger/ double-barreled shotguns.
Ruger Vaquero Bisley (as of the first Territorial Congress of 2006).
Ruger .32 H&R.
Cimarron Lightening.
Cimarron Thunderer.
Cimarron Model P Jr.
“P” frames with Birds-head grip.
“Pinkerton”-grip firearms.
Uberti ’73 SAA with cap and ball cylinders.
Ruger Old Army cap and ball.
Navy Arms Scout and similar small framed revolvers.
Non-birds head or non-banana gripped Webleys’.
Colt Police Positive.
Winchester ’94 with angle eject.
Henry Big Boy and all other models.
Modern lever-action rifles in current production equipped with angle eject, ramped front sight.
H&R Buffalo Classic.
Modern shotguns with vent ribs.
Modern recoil pads ( no white line spacers).
Not allowed are the following: Short-stroke kits for toggle link rifles, short stroke kits for revolvers, Lightning rods or similar devises, aluminum carriers for toggle link rifles.
No belt holster shall be lined with metal, plastic, or any non-leather material to make it easier to extract or re-holster revolver. Cloth Lining shall be acceptable. No holster shall be lower than the leading, forward edge of the trigger guard in the trigger area and no lower than the midpoint of the trigger guard over the cylinder or at the leading edge of the holster. Holster shall be attached to belt by a loop over the entire belt, i.e., no slotted belt (buscadero rigs). No holster may be tied to the leg.
A very diverse range of apparel and
accouterments existed within the time period of 1865-1899. Much has been written
detailing the items worn and used during this time. The individual must research
all items to ensure authenticity. Period photographs used to authenticate dress
should be dated in order to eliminate confusion as to whether the item is
correct.
Not allowed are the following: any
modern Western-style boot with stitching on the toe; modern-style vests;
snap-button shirts or modern-style Western shirts; modern jeans that have not
been altered to conform to historic styling; Buscadero (slotted belt) gun rigs;
modern “fast-draw” holsters; slide-on shotgun shell holders (effective as of the
first Territorial Congress of 2006); modern-style cowboy hats, unless altered to
an authentic style; modern Western trophy-style belt buckles. Loading strips are
not allowed on the firing line but may be used at the loading area. Shotgun
cartridge belts must have individual loops.
Firing ranges shall be "cold;" i.e., there shall be no loaded firearms allowed anywhere but the firing line.
No fast draw competition.
Eye and ear protection are mandatory in "hot" areas--the firing line and immediate surroundings.
Ear muff-style hearing protectors are allowed, as are modern-designed shooting glasses.
No alcohol allowed on the range during shooting hours, either for use or possession. No illegal controlled substances at any time. No smoking in the shooting area.
No fingers in the trigger guards unless the shooter is on the firing line and preparing to fire at the command of the range officer, or in the act of shooting. Shooters failing to observe this rule may be disqualified from competition.
All participants, hearing the command "cease fire," or being made aware of other danger signals, will immediately cease firing and keep their firearms pointed down range with the muzzle in a downward position.
Shooters are responsible for the safe condition of their firearms.
Individuals making a formal protest to the Judge or Deputy Judge of questionable acts or violation of the rules by an individual shall accompany such protest by a $10.00 protest fee. If the protest is upheld the fee will be returned. If the protest is denied, the fee is forfeited to the individual against whom the protest was made. The Judge or Deputy Judge's decision shall be final.
1. Treat and respect every firearm as if
it were loaded.
2. Eye and ear protection is required for all competitors and
spectators. Safety glasses with side shields recommended.
3. No loaded firearms except at the firing line or loading table.
4. No quick-draw at any time.
5. Revolvers are to always have the hammer down on an empty chamber or between
chambers when loaded.
6. No breaking a 170-degree plane with any firearm at any time during the stage.
Draws from a cross draw must be done with the body turned to the firing line so
the muzzle of the revolver is not breaking the 170-degree rule. Stage
disqualification for first offense, match disqualification for
second offense in same day. Penalties for having the finger in the trigger guard
or the revolver cocked before it is pointed down-range: 1st infraction -
disqualification from the stage; 2nd infraction - disqualification from the
match.
7. All long guns will have actions open at all times except on the firing line
or when they are in cases.
8. When carrying firearms to loading or unloading tables, muzzles must be in
vertical position, pointed straight up.
9. A dropped unloaded firearm ends the stage for a shooter. A dropped loaded
firearm will result in a match disqualification. The firearm will be retrieved
and cleared by Posse Leader or Timer.
10. A dropped round is a dead round and must be picked up at the end of the
stage. (Judges option: shooter may acquire another round from person.)
11. Everyone will load, stage, and unload his/her own firearms, except for those
physically challenged or inexperienced, needing assistance.
12. No running under time with a charged firearm in hand.
13. No fanning or twirling a firearm at any time.
14. Shotguns are staged with magazines and chambers open and empty and are
loaded under the clock. (Pistoleer class, arms charged but not capped.) All
empty shells must be ejected before grounding or moving throughout a stage when
carrying the firearm.
14a. No more than two rounds may be loaded into shotguns at a time.
15. Initially load rifles and revolvers at loading table only and only when the
loading table is manned.
16. Shooter is to retrieve his/her own firearms and go directly to manned unload
table after stage is completed.
17. No squib or magnum velocity loads. No jacketed bullets, only cast lead alloy
only bullets. Shot is to be lead only, and no larger than #7 1/2's. Only
cartridges and velocities approved in The Tally Book are allowed. Shooters may
be held responsible for damage caused to a target by too "hot" a load.
18. All participants must attend a safety meeting before shooting in any event.
19. Posses should have no fewer than eight persons: one timer, one shooter, one
watching the loading area, one watching the unloading, three watching hits and
picking up brass, one loading
20. Refusal to follow the Stage Marshal or Judge's direction regarding safety or
procedural rules will be grounds for match disqualification. Remember to think
safety first and always! Don't be afraid to speak up if you see anyone handling
a firearm improperly, but also remember to be courteous. If someone points out
that you're handling a firearm carelessly, be grateful, not upset It's better to
be corrected than have someone get hurt.
21. It is permissible if Posses allow for mule-eared shotguns to be cocked at
the beginning of a scenario whether staged or in the shooter’s hands.
22. No cocked firearm with a live round under the hammer may ever leave the
shooters hand except for a malfunction. This also means from one hand to the
other.
If something should occur down range that
will need someone to cross over the firing line to fix it is the responsibility
of the Timekeeper to use the air horn to notify his/her posse and all other
posses that there is a problem. If the problem is not a matter that would
endanger anyone -- two short blasts on the air horn after the shooter has
finished the stage lets the posse leader on that posse know that a yellow flag
is required. When two short blasts are heard and a yellow flag is raised on
another posse, the Timekeeper should allow his/her shooter to finish his/her
stage, proceed to the unloading table, lay all guns on the table and step back
from the unloading table. Once the Timekeeper has determined that all firearms
are either lying on the loading or unloading tables, then he/she will tell
his/her Posse Leader to raise the yellow flag for that posse. When all posses'
yellow flags are raised, it is then safe for someone to cross the firing line to
set targets, retrieve hats, etc. Once the problem has been rectified, the
initiating posse's Timekeeper will tell his Posse Leader to raise the green
flag. Only when all green flags have been raised, can any firearm be picked up
or moved and shooting resume. If something should occur down range that presents
eminent danger to person or persons, a long blast on the air horn by a
timekeeper signifies an immediate cease fire. The long blast should be relayed
by all Timekeepers to ensure everyone up and down the line hears it. The person
on that and all stages are to stop firing immediate, lay
down his/her firearm on the ground in front of him/her with the barrel facing
down range, stand, step back from the firearm, and raise open and empty hands to
signify he/she is clear. At that time the Timekeeper tells the Posse Leader to
raise the red flag. Once the danger has been remedied, the initiating Timekeeper
will let his/her Posse Leader know to raise the green flag. Shooters in the
middle of stages on a red flag will be allowed to reshoot that stage. Firearms
will be picked up and carried to the unloading table where they will be unloaded
and cleared. The shooter will then need to proceed to loading table, reload and
get ready to shoot through the stage again. While the interrupted shooter is
unloading and reloading, the next shooters in line may proceed through the
stage. Once the interrupted shooter is ready, he/she will shoot where ever in
the shooting order that occurs.
The “Originals” class is a non-traditional shooting class combing the elements of a historically accurate and documented impression or persona,,peer review, and shooting competition. Each entrant will submit a documented impression, be subject to peer review, and compete in shooting competition under specific limitations.
The guidelines for the “Originals”class
are as follows:
1. Select an impression for a person that would have lived in the 1865-1899 time
period.
2. Give this person a birth date that would allow them to be your age at the
time period you select. Describe the life and character of the person. This
should be short,250 words is sufficient.
3. Provide a list of clothing, accouterments, and weapons that are used/worn by
this person. The items are to fit within the time frame depicted. This listing
would be complete; description of each item, with at least two reference sources
if possible,that describe the item and its time frame.
4. This listing along with the biographical sketch(impression) shall be
submitted along with a photograph “in Persona”.
5. Firearms shall be any two NCOWS approved firearms, either original or
reproductions that were available for the period chosen. Any persona prior to
the availability of smokeless loadings for their chosen firearm is required to
use black powder or approved substitute.
6. Shotgun gauges are limited to 16, 12, and 10; Brass or paper shot shells.
Subject to the same propellant requirements.
7. Firearms are not to be altered or modified in a manner that was not
consistent with the period chosen.
8. Chosen firearms used in a match may only be replaced with another in case of
failure or breakage. For example: pistol for pistol rifle for rifle. If one is
not available, misses will be taken for that firearm for the remainder of the
match.
9. Gun carts will not be used unless needed to accommodate physical handicaps.
10. If possible, “Originals” entrants will be squadded together. This class will
not be offered unless at least three participants register for the class. A
minimum of three entrants are required for the peer review.
11. Scoring. Scoring will consist of three parts: (A) Each participant will
receive a base score of 50 points for the successful completion and submission
of the required documentation of their impression, clothing, arms, and
accessories. (B) The impression or persona will be reviewed by
the other participants of the class and the appearance of each participant will
be checked against their impression. Participants will be given a score of 1-10
based on the average of the peer review scores. Participants will not score
themselves. (C) The balance of the participant’s score will
be based on the shooting in the match. In this section participants will receive
40 points for first place, 35 points for 2nd place, 30 points for 3rd place, 25
points for 4th place, 20 points for 5th place, and all shooter below 5th place
will each receive 15 points.
Total score for each participant will be determined by adding the point total
for each of the sections.
12. Documentation may be submitted in advance of the event to three (3)
previously approved “Originals” members or may be submitted at the event itself,
provided at least three approved “Originals” are present at the event.
13. Course of fire will be the same during the match as other shooters using two
firearms. Reloads may be required, and use of a shotgun or revolver to engage
rifle targets, may be dictated by the participant’s choice of firearms.
14. The participant does not have the option to change firearms during the
match.
15. Design of the stages is left to the discretion of the local posse, who are
encouraged to refrain form requiring the shot count of shooters that shoot more
than two firearms.
FAQs Links:
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FAQs, Rules & Regulations,
Firearms, Ammo
Online Tally Book:
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of Incorporation, By-Laws, Reference Section
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& Mining Co. Links:
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Members,
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Links,
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Please contact us with any questions, or comments, at:
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Created April 18, 2003.
Updated September 8, 2007.