The Basics for Budding 3-Gun Enthusiasts

Team Remington's Danyela D'Angelo spells out how simple it is to get started with 3-Gun using equipment you likely already have on hand.

posted on September 6, 2022
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

The sport of 3-Gun competition has been around for many years, attracting the attention of hundreds of thousands of shooters worldwide. Although you don't have to be a world-class athlete, typical 3-Gun match requires plenty of movement while engaging targets in a variety of different positions and, as its name implies, requires the use of three different firearms at different stages.

One of the biggest appeals of the sport is that the initial investment can be minimal, and actually you probably already own much of the equipment required to participate in a match: a pistol with iron sights, a scoped AR-style rifle, and a semi-automatic or pump-action shotgun. In fact, that is what makes this sport so ideal for those looking to participate in their first match of any kind. Take stock of the equipment you already have on hand, then identify a match that permits your particular equipment. It’s that casual, and that welcoming of an atmosphere. The snob factor is low and don’t worry, there are plenty of local matches where you can begin this exciting addition to your shooting repertoire.

Team Remington’s 3-Gun shooter Danyela D'Angelo says the best part of 3-Gun is its laid-back approach and welcoming attitude to those new to the sport, where the competitive spirit is present, but lacks the intimidating factors of other sanctioned competitions.

Her encouraging advice to those considering a first go at this sport: “Just Go! Many think you have to be  super prepared, but you don’t. Just go watch [at first]. Make new friends, shoot some guns, have fun.”

Watch the complete video in which Danyela D’Angelo spells out the basics for budding 3-Gun enthusiasts!

Latest

Deering Ccw Dont 2 Istock 1764000522
Deering Ccw Dont 2 Istock 1764000522

When NOT to Draw Your Gun

If you carry concealed, we hope you’ve given some thought to the circumstances under which you’d draw your gun. But have you thought about when you WON’T?

The Armed Citizen® Reload June 19, 2026

A woman used a revolver she had just purchased to save her husband's life during a violent attack outside their home. 

Kim Rowe Delivers Standout Performances at 2026 NRA National Championships

Rowe earned top honors and multiple podium finishes at both the NRA National High Power Mid-Range Prone Championships and the NRA National High Power Long Range Championships.

New Guns 2026: Ruger Adds More America 250th Anniversary Firearms

Each limited production model in this special collection is distinctly marked with the inscription, "Made in the 250th Year of American Liberty."

Delights for Dad on Father’s Day

Whether Dad is a dedicated hunter, competitive shooter, avid reloader or simply enjoys spending time outside, here's a selection of products that is sure to please.

4 Gun Sayings That Are Absolutely True … and 3 That Aren’t

There are a lot of cliches and one-liners we throw around in the gun community. Some of them are true, but some are just baloney.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.