The world of shooting sports is more diverse than most people realize—and one of the most unique and fastest-growing communities today is the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS).
At the Great American Outdoors Show in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, we had the chance to sit down with Rikki Runs Guns and Ruthless Ruby to talk about what makes SASS so different from anything else in the firearms world.
If you’ve ever been curious about cowboy action shooting, Old West culture, or how to get started—this is your inside look.
🎥 Watch the Full Interview
👉 https://youtu.be/FJpjWZqLJ3o
(Tip: Open in a new tab to keep reading while you watch.)
What Is the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS)?
The Single Action Shooting Society is an international organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the spirit of the Old West through competitive shooting.
Unlike traditional shooting sports, SASS combines:
- Timed shooting competitions
- Period-correct firearms
- Western character personas
- A strong emphasis on community and fun
Participants take on aliases and step into a fully immersive Old West experience—making it as much about lifestyle as it is about competition.
What Makes Cowboy Action Shooting Unique?
Cowboy action shooting stands apart because it blends sport, history, and performance into one experience.
Shooters use:
- Single-action revolvers
- Lever-action rifles
- Shotguns typical of the late 1800s
But what really sets it apart is the atmosphere.
It’s not just about hitting targets—it’s about stepping into a character, embracing a time period, and being part of something bigger than yourself.
The Culture and Community Behind SASS
One of the biggest takeaways from our interview with Ruthless Ruby is how strong the SASS community really is.
This isn’t just a competitive league—it’s a tight-knit network of people who:
- Welcome beginners
- Encourage creativity
- Support each other on and off the range
Many members describe it as more of a family than a sport.
Old West Style: More Than Just Costumes
A defining feature of SASS is the commitment to Old West-style fashion.
Participants wear:
- Cowboy hats
- Period-correct boots
- Western shirts and dresses
- Gun belts and accessories
But it goes deeper than clothing—each shooter builds a persona that reflects their character in the Old West.
How SASS Competitions Work
SASS competitions are designed to be fast-paced, engaging, and accessible.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Timed stages with multiple targets
- Specific shooting sequences
- Movement between positions
- Emphasis on safety and accuracy
There are also different categories based on:
- Age
- Shooting style
- Experience level
So whether you're brand new or experienced, there’s a place for you.
How to Get Started in SASS
Getting involved in the Single Action Shooting Society is easier than most people think.
Here’s a simple path to start:
- Visit: https://sassnet.com
- Find a local club or match
- Attend as a spectator
- Connect with members
- Try it out before investing in gear
Why SASS Continues to Grow
SASS is growing because it offers something most shooting sports don’t:
- A complete experience
- A strong sense of identity and belonging
- A creative outlet through characters and style
- A welcoming environment for all skill levels
Final Thoughts
Our conversation at the Great American Outdoors Show made one thing clear:
The Single Action Shooting Society isn’t just a shooting sport—it’s a lifestyle.
Join the Conversation
Have you ever tried cowboy action shooting?
Would you go all-in on the Old West look—or keep it simple?
👉 Watch the full interview and drop a comment:
About JMDB Photo & Film
At JMDB Photo & Film, we specialize in capturing real moments, real communities, and real stories—from live events to interviews across the firearms and veteran space.