5 Mistakes New SASS Shooters Make When Buying Their First Rig

By Mernickle Custom Holsters

Getting started in Cowboy Action Shooting is exciting. New shooters spend hours researching firearms, watching videos, and dreaming about the perfect rig. Unfortunately, many end up spending money twice because of a few common mistakes made when purchasing their first holster setup.

If you're new to SASS, here are five mistakes you can avoid to save money and start your shooting journey on the right foot.

Mistake #1: Buying Based on Looks Alone

Let's be honest—Cowboy Action Shooting is full of some of the most beautiful leather rigs you'll ever see. Fancy carving, silver spots, exotic accents, and stunning craftsmanship all catch the eye.

But your first rig should fit your body and shooting style before it fits your sense of style.

A beautiful rig that sits too low, rides too high, or doesn't position the revolvers properly can slow you down and make learning more difficult.

What to do instead: Focus on comfort, fit, and function first. You can always add more customization and embellishment as you gain experience and discover your personal style.

Mistake #2: Choosing the Wrong Holster Style

Many new shooters buy a rig because they saw a top shooter using it without understanding why that shooter chose that specific setup.

A Gunfighter rig, Classic Cowboy rig, Cross Draw setup, or High Performance rig all serve different purposes.

The rig that's perfect for a six-foot-four experienced shooter may not work well for someone with a different body type or shooting style.

What to do instead: Consider your height, build, arm length, shooting category, future goals in the sport, and comfort while moving and drawing.

The best rig is the one that works for you, not necessarily the one everyone else is using.

Mistake #3: Ignoring Belt Quality

Many shooters spend most of their budget on the holsters and overlook the importance of the belt.

The belt is the foundation of the entire system.

• Sag under the weight of loaded revolvers
• Shift during movement
• Affect draw consistency
• Become uncomfortable during long match days

What to do instead: Invest in a quality dual-ply gun belt designed specifically for Cowboy Action Shooting. A properly built belt supports the holsters, distributes weight evenly, and helps maintain consistent draws.

Mistake #4: Buying for Today Instead of Tomorrow

Many shooters purchase a basic starter rig and quickly discover they want to shoot more seriously than they originally planned.

Within a year they often find themselves wanting different holster positions, additional cartridge capacity, better fit, more comfort, and faster access to their firearms.

This frequently results in buying a second rig sooner than expected.

What to do instead: Think about where you want to be in a year or two. If you're committed to the sport, investing in a quality custom rig from the beginning can save money in the long run.

Mistake #5: Not Asking Questions

One of the greatest strengths of the Cowboy Action Shooting community is the willingness of shooters to help newcomers.

Yet many first-time buyers order equipment without seeking advice.

Experienced shooters can often identify potential fit issues before they become expensive mistakes.

What to do instead: Ask questions. Talk to local club members, posse marshals, experienced competitors, and holster makers who understand Cowboy Action Shooting.

Most shooters are more than happy to share what they've learned.

The Bottom Line

Your first rig doesn't have to be your last rig, but it should be one that helps you learn, grow, and enjoy the sport.

A properly fitted holster system should be comfortable to wear all day, support consistent draws, fit your body type, match your shooting category, and provide years of reliable service.

At Mernickle Custom Holsters, we've helped thousands of Cowboy Action Shooters find the right setup for their needs. Whether you're just getting started or looking to upgrade, we're always happy to help you choose a rig that fits both your goals and your style.

Because in Cowboy Action Shooting, the right rig isn't just leather—it's part of the experience.

Ready to build your first Cowboy Action Shooting rig? Contact Mernickle Custom Holsters and let us help you find the setup that's right for you.