Mounted shooting is fast, technical, and incredibly fun, but like any equestrian sport, it runs on a clear set of rules to keep riders, horses, and spectators safe. If you’re new to USMS, here’s a simple breakdown of the essentials you need to know before entering the arena.
Who Can Compete?
USMS welcomes riders of all ages, with divisions designed to keep things fair and safe.
Adults (12+) compete with certified blanks in the main match.
Senior Buckaroos (10–11) and Junior Buckaroos (under 10) have their own classes and do not shoot live blanks.
Buckaroos may be led through patterns, and helmets are recommended.
A rider’s Buckaroo age is determined by their age on January 1 of the season.
Safety Comes First
The rulebook is clear: safety is non‑negotiable.
All firearms must be treated as loaded.
No alcohol or drugs before or during competition.
Guns stay unloaded until the designated loading area.
Only USMS‑certified blanks may be used.
Riders must enter and exit the arena slowly and in control.
Dogs must be leashed and non‑aggressive.
How Penalties Work
Mounted shooting is a timed sport, but penalties can make or break your run. Common penalties include:
Missed target: +5 seconds
Overturned barrel or gate pole: +5 seconds
Dropped gun: +5 seconds per gun
Procedural errors: +10 seconds
Unsafe behavior or showboating: +60 seconds
Breaking the timeline early or dismounting: +60 seconds
Any run over 60 seconds is automatically considered unqualified.
Firearms & Equipment
USMS has strict equipment standards to keep competition consistent.
Pistols: Single‑action .45 Colt revolvers with fixed sights
Rifles: Pre‑1900 style lever action (.45 Colt, .44‑40, .44 Mag)
Guns must remain unloaded outside the loading area.
Dress Code
Mounted shooting keeps a western tradition alive.
Long‑sleeve collared shirts
Western jeans
Cowboy boots
Western hat or helmet
Women may wear period‑style dresses or skirts with proper under-layers
No ball caps, t‑shirts, or sneakers allowed
How Points Work
Points are tracked by horse-and-rider team.
Points are earned per stage based on how many competitors you place above.
Penalties = zero points for that stage.
Buckaroos earn points differently, tracked by rider only.
Year‑end awards are based on the full calendar season.
Entering an Event
A few things to know before you sign up:
Membership must be current.
Fees must be paid before books close.
Riders may enter multiple horses, but each entry stands alone.
Clean shooter payouts require penalty‑free runs under 60 seconds.
All horses must have a current Coggins.
Why These Rules Matter
The USMS rulebook exists to protect riders, horses, and the integrity of the sport. Mounted shooting is fast, loud, and adrenaline‑packed, and these guidelines ensure that every competitor can enjoy the thrill safely and fairly. If you’re thinking about getting involved, this is your starting point. The full rulebook goes deeper, but now you’ve got the essentials.
