Cowboy Action Shooting Tips, CCW Renewal Issues & Ammo Donations

[0:43] Shooting at the Oldest Cowboy Action Facility

The host shot at the world’s oldest cowboy action shooting facility, started at Coto de Caza in the early 1980s and moved to Rahagi in Norco. It is an eight-minute drive for him. Six stages today with about 35 shooters. Back when cowboy shooting boomed, they used the full 12 bays and sometimes shot under car headlights at night.

[2:16] Shooting with Friends and New Shooters

Shot with John Ringo, Calamity Annie, and Clint Steel who impressed with his strong grip similar to the host’s old two-handed style. A lawyer and his wife from a prior show were new shooters. The wife held pistols daintily, causing movement on cocking single actions.

[3:30] Tips for New Cowboy Action Shooters

New shooters hold firearms too delicately for speed. Grip strong with the dominant hand while cocking with the weak hand. Avoid talking or shaking heads on misses to stay in subconscious flow state. Never announce misses aloud as spotters might overlook them.

[5:28] Caller Eric on CCW Renewal Issues

Eric in Santa Ana reports his Orange County CCW renewal applied November 17 took until last week. The new license lacks a personal number, only an agency number. Firearm listings have smudged ink, unclear numbers like 8 looking like B or H, and smaller type. It is plastic-embedded now.

[7:27] Advice for Eric’s CCW Problems

Carry the old license as backup. Contact Orange County Sheriff’s Department immediately to avoid validity issues during stops. Riverside and Orange are better than LA, but Orange seems slipping requiring prodding.

[8:41] Caller Tom on Donating Excess Ammo

Tom has more ammo than he can shoot, mostly factory lead loads. Wants to donate to a 501c3 for tax deduction without selling due to California rules. Auction is an option but prefers donation.

[9:12] Recommending CRPA for Ammo Donations

Donate to CRPA, a likely 501c3 that accepts ammo for youth programs and training. Host donated over a ton during shortages, including seized ammo from police departments. CRPA used it for young shooters.

[11:47] Wrapping Up and Call for Listeners

Heading to commercial. Call in at 866-870-5752. The show needs your input.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tips help new cowboy action shooters?

Grip pistols strongly with the dominant hand while cocking with the weak hand to avoid movement. Stay silent on misses to maintain subconscious flow state. Never announce misses as spotters might miss them.

What issues can arise with CCW renewals?

Renewals can delay months. New licenses might lack personal numbers, have smudged ink on firearm listings, unclear characters, and smaller type. Carry old license as backup and contact the issuing department immediately.

Where can I donate excess ammunition for a tax deduction?

Donate to the CRPA, a 501c3 that accepts ammo for youth training programs. They have taken tons during shortages. Confirm status and drop off arrangements.

What is the history of cowboy action shooting at Rahagi?

Started at Coto de Caza in the early 1980s, moved to Rahagi in Norco when Coto closed. Once used 12 bays with night shooting under headlights. Now down to two bays with about 35 shooters.

How does Orange County handle CCW cards now?

New cards are plastic-embedded with photos. Some have printing issues like smudges and small type. Processing can lag requiring follow-ups to avoid lapses.

Sources, Credibility, and Continuing the Conversation

The recommendations and observations herein rest on decades of hands-on experience: restorations, hunts, auctioneering, and studio conversation. Practical advice leans best when tempered by cautious humility. Test gear, vet sellers, and keep learning from trusted elders in the trade.