Holsters and more about the B Western Category In SASS
B-Western: The Most Dazzling and Costume-Committed SASS Category
Among all SASS shooting categories, B-Western (and Lady B-Western) stands apart as the most visually striking, detail-driven, and fully committed to Old West Hollywood style. Rooted in the golden age of Western cinema, B-Western celebrates bold leather, flashy costuming, and classic firearms—while still allowing flexibility in shooting style.
This is the category where leather and costume are not accessories—they are part of the performance. Choosing the right rig can make all the difference.
Firearm Rules
B-Western shooters may use standard SASS-legal firearms, allowing competitors to focus on presentation, leather, and costuming.
- Revolvers: Any SASS main match revolver
- Shooting Style: Any SASS-legal shooting style
- Rifles: Any SASS-legal rifle of 1880 or later design or replica (Burgess, Lightning, Winchester 1892/1894, Marlin)
- Shotguns: Any SASS-legal shotgun
- Ammunition: Any SASS-legal ammunition
Your leather rig must support these firearms while keeping them correctly positioned and accessible.
Leather Rules — The Foundation of B-Western Style
Leather gear is one of the defining elements of B-Western. SASS rules require:
- Buscadero or drop holster rigs (all revolvers below the top of the gun belt)
- Belts and holsters must be embellished with fancy stitching, tooling, conchos, or spots
- No shoulder rigs allowed
Our HP B-Western and Buscadero B-Western Rig were handcrafted specifically to meet these requirements while maximizing comfort, performance, and visual impact.
Dropped Holsters vs. Buscadero Holsters
Both dropped and Buscadero holsters are legal in B-Western. Each offers unique advantages depending on comfort, consistency, and visual preference.
Dropped Holsters – HP B-Western
- Locked-in holster position: Back buckle locks the holsters to the front for a consistent draw, even with jackets or chinks.
- Unaffected by weight or clothing changes: Holster height and angle remain consistent even if weight fluctuates.
- Builds muscle memory: Consistent placement develops strong, reliable draw muscle memory.
- Reduced bulk and flexible configuration: Lighter on the leg, supports strong-side or cross-draw setups.
Disadvantages: Slightly less dramatic Hollywood profile; requires precise construction to prevent swinging.
Buscadero Holsters – Buscadero B-Western Rig
- Classic Hollywood look: Iconic silver-screen silhouette.
- Extensive embellishment space: Extra leather for fancy stitching, conchos, and tooling.
- Weight distribution: Helps spread the weight of revolver across the belt.
Disadvantages: Heavier and bulkier; skirt may reduce mobility; fixed position can shift with jackets or weight changes.
Costuming Rules — Flash Is Mandatory
- Shirts: Snap buttons, embroidery, appliqués, fringe, smiley pockets; shield shirts allowed with piping/embroidery
- Pants: Jeans, ranch pants, decorative pants with flap pockets, keystone loops, piping, or fringe; suspenders not allowed
- Ladies: Dresses, skirts, or split riding skirts
- Hats: Felt only, required for all shooters
- Boots: Traditional Western boots with embellishments; non-lug soles; no lace-ups or moccasins
- Spurs (Men): Rowels and straps required
- Optional Items: Gloves, scarves, bolo ties, coat, vest, chaps/chinks, or cuffs
Costumes are allowed if complete and compliant, excluding John Wayne, spaghetti western, or townsperson characters.
Why Shooters Choose Purpose-Built B-Western Rigs
Both HP B-Western and Buscadero B-Western Rig are handcrafted for shooters who demand:
- Rule compliance
- Comfort and mobility
- Consistent draw and muscle memory
- Maximum visual impact
Whether you prefer the locked-in performance of the HP B-Western or the classic Hollywood flair of the Buscadero B-Western Rig, these rigs ensure your gear performs as impressively as it looks.
Final Thoughts
B-Western is the pinnacle of style, commitment, and performance in SASS. With proper leather, embellishment, and costuming, this category rewards shooters who invest in quality, rule-compliant rigs that enhance both appearance and performance.
Step into the most dazzling category in SASS with confidence—your HP B-Western or Buscadero B-Western Rig will help you show off exactly how it’s done.