Mastering the Multi-Gun Stage: A Beginner's Guide to Gear and Strategy

Mastering the Multi-Gun Stage: A Beginner's Guide to Gear and Strategy

Multi-gun competition, where you engage targets with a rifle, pistol, and often a shotgun, is one of the most dynamic and exciting shooting sports. For a beginner, however, the first match can feel overwhelming. Between managing multiple firearms, complex stage briefings, and the pressure of the clock, it's easy to feel lost. This guide is designed to cut through the confusion, providing a solid foundation in the essential gear and fundamental strategies you need to approach your first multi-gun stages with confidence, safety, and a plan.

Part 1: Building Your Gear Foundation

You don't need the most expensive gear to start, but you do need reliable, safe, and functional equipment. The goal is to simplify your process, not complicate it.

The Core Firearms

Pistol: A reliable 9mm striker-fired or DA/SA pistol is the standard. Ensure you have at least three magazines. A sturdy holster that fully covers the trigger guard and a magazine pouch for each spare mag are non-negotiable for safety and speed.

Rifle: An AR-15 platform in 5.56x45mm is the most common choice. Key features for a beginner include a reliable optic (a simple red dot is perfect to start), a sling (two-point is highly recommended), and at least three magazines. A free-float handguard is beneficial for stability.

Shotgun: A semi-automatic 12-gauge (like a Benelli M2, Beretta 1301, or similar) is the top choice for its speed. A reliable pump-action can also work well. You'll need a way to carry extra shells—most beginners start with a simple shell cuff on the stock or a side-saddle on the receiver.

Essential Supporting Equipment

• Belt System: A stiff inner belt with an outer competition belt is the backbone of your setup. It securely holds your holster, magazine pouches, and shell caddies.
• Magazine Carriers: Dedicated pouches for your rifle and pistol mags. Start with simple, friction-based or adjustable pouches.
• Shotgun Shell Carriers: As you progress, invest in dedicated caddies that hold 4-8 shells for quick reloads. For longer stages, a shell belt or bandolier is useful.
• Eye and Ear Protection: Wear wraparound safety glasses and electronic hearing protection. The latter allows you to hear range commands while protecting your hearing.
• Apparel & Tools: A sturdy pair of pants, closed-toe shoes, a hat, and a hydration pack are crucial for comfort. Bring a basic cleaning kit and tools specific to your firearms.

Part 2: Developing a Winning Strategy

Gear is only half the battle. Your mental game and stage plan are what turn equipment into performance.

Stage Breakdown: The Walkthrough

When the stage description is given, listen carefully. Then, during the walkthrough:

1. Identify Start Position: How are you holding each gun? Which one is in your hands?
2. Map Your Path: Plan your exact footpath from position to position. Look for the most efficient route with the fewest steps.
3. Note Target Engagement Order: Determine the sequence for engaging targets from each position. Remember the rules: some targets may require specific firearms or shot types (e.g., slug vs. birdshot).
4. Plan Your Transitions: Decide where you will safely stow one gun and draw the next. Safety is paramount—always ensure a firearm is secure (in a holster, on a table, slung) before handling another.
5. Locate Prop Interactions: Note any doors, ports, levers, or carrying items you must handle.

Execution Fundamentals

The Safe Transition: This is a critical skill. Practice the sequence: fire last shot, safety on, stow/secure gun A, then draw/acquire gun B. Never rush a transition at the expense of muzzle safety.

Movement: Move with purpose, but never faster than you can move safely. Keep muzzles in a safe direction (usually downrange). Move to your next position while reloading your pistol if possible.

Reloading: Plan your reloads. A "tactical" reload (reloading before the magazine is empty) during movement is often faster than an "emergency" reload (slide locks back) in the middle of a target array. For shotgun, practice loading 2-4 shells at a time smoothly.

The Mental Game

Your first match goal is not to win. It is to be safe, follow the rules, and complete every stage. DQ (Disqualification) for a safety violation is the only true failure. Breathe, visualize your plan, and focus on one step at a time. If you make a mistake, like missing a target, keep going. Completing the stage is a victory.

Putting It All Together: Your First Match Checklist

• Gear Check: All firearms unloaded and bagged before arrival. Ammo checked for correct type (e.g., no steel core rifle ammo).
• Mindset: Arrive early, find the Match Director, declare yourself a new shooter, and ask questions.
• On Deck: When you're "on deck" (shooting next), do a final mental rehearsal. Load magazines only when instructed.
• In the Stage: Listen to the Range Officer (RO), make safe, follow your plan, and breathe.
• After: Help paste targets (reset the stage). This is how you learn and become part of the community.

Multi-gun is a sport of constant learning. Embrace the challenge, prioritize safety above all else, and celebrate the small improvements. With the right foundational gear and a solid strategic approach, you'll find that the complexity of a multi-gun stage quickly transforms from a source of anxiety into a puzzle you can't wait to solve. See you on the range!