• A rifle is one of the guns used in 3-gun competitions.rifle image by studio vision1 from Fotolia.com
  
  Three-gun competitions (also referred to as action or practical shooting) challenge participants to shoot a series of targets using three different guns while maneuvering through different stages of fire. A pistol, rifle and shotgun are used, and participants are judged on time and accuracy. The Army Marksmanship Unit refers to the United States Practical Shooting Association rules and scoring system for 3-gun competitions.
  
  

Equipment

• All guns used must meet USPSA standards for acceptable equipment for each division. The requirements for rife, shotgun and pistols are different, and a comprehensive list of acceptable equipment can be found on the USPSA website. Firearms must be in the specified location and in a ready condition before the competition begins. Competitors must use the same firearms throughout the competition. A firearm may be abandoned if the firearm is unloaded.
  
  

Targets

• Competitors must shoot the appropriate targets with the appropriate equipment. Targets shot with the wrong gun will not be counted. Targets must be shot from a minimum of 23 feet away for handguns, 16 to 131 for shotguns (depending on whether it's birdshoot or slugs), and 164 feet for rifles. Only targets approved for USPSA multigun competitions may be used.
  
  

Accessories

• Tie-down holsters and holsters with the heel of the butt below the top of the belt are allowed. Any belts, holsters or speed-loading devices that adhere to the general rules may be changed or resituated in between stages (for example, between rifle and shotgun).
  
  

Disqualification

• Disqualification during a match means disqualification for the entire competition. Anyone who is disqualified will not be allowed to continue and will not receive any awards or prizes. Anyone who commits a safety infraction or any other prohibited activity during a match will be disqualified. Abandoning a loaded firearm in an improper condition will result in getting disqualified.