Rattlesnake Hunting with Alan Garbers

This video provides an expert guide to getting started in Cowboy Action Shooting, emphasizing the importance of attending matches as a spectator and borrowing firearms before purchasing. It details the basic requirements for clothing and firearms, and highlights the welcoming and family-oriented nature of the sport, particularly through the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS). The discussion also touches on the historical context and the thrill of reenacting Western scenarios.

Quick Summary

To start Cowboy Action Shooting, attend a local match as a spectator, observe, and talk to participants. Many shooters will let you borrow firearms to try before you buy. Basic attire includes jeans, boots, and a button-down shirt, with a cowboy hat recommended for protection from hot brass. Joining the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) provides resources and community.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Alan Garbers' Background
  2. 00:54Rattlesnake Hunting as a Hobby and Income Source
  3. 01:20Early Influences and Love for the West
  4. 03:53Getting Started in Cowboy Action Shooting
  5. 04:16Premise and Rules of Cowboy Action Shooting
  6. 05:00Classic Cowboy Category Requirements
  7. 06:14Side Matches and Long-Distance Shooting
  8. 07:25How to Begin Cowboy Action Shooting
  9. 08:41Common Mistakes When Starting Out
  10. 09:26Basic Clothing Requirements for SASS
  11. 09:54The Single Action Shooting Society (SASS)
  12. 10:24Family-Friendly Nature of SASS
  13. 11:08Familiarization with Firearms Through SASS
  14. 12:03Finding SASS Information Online
  15. 13:01Alan Garbers' Offer to Help New Shooters
  16. 13:39Reloading and Casting Bullets for Cost Savings
  17. 13:42Rattlesnake Hunting: When and Where
  18. 14:10The 'Laying Out' Period for Rattlesnakes
  19. 15:14Rattlesnake Behavior in Summer
  20. 16:15Nocturnal Hunting and Road Encounters
  21. 16:58How to Safely Dispatch a Rattlesnake
  22. 17:15Safe Handling Techniques for Rattlesnakes
  23. 18:16Alternative Methods for Restraining Snakes
  24. 19:01Avoiding Damage to Hides When Hunting
  25. 19:33Recent Rattlesnake Hunting Experience
  26. 20:43Can a Severed Rattlesnake Head Still Bite?
  27. 21:13Biologist Insights on Rattlesnake Bites
  28. 22:21Rattlesnake Defensive Behavior
  29. 23:20Rattlesnake Encounters in Indiana
  30. 23:54Endangered vs. Regulated Rattlesnake Populations
  31. 25:12Mojave Rattlesnake and Venom Toxicity
  32. 25:42Common Rattlesnake Species in Arizona
  33. 26:36Arizona Black Rattlesnakes and Coloration
  34. 27:01Rattlesnake Hatbands and Their Popularity
  35. 27:36Utilizing Rattlesnake Carcasses and Bones
  36. 28:47Eating Rattlesnake Meat
  37. 29:56Rusters Roost Restaurant in Phoenix
  38. 30:39Favorite Published Articles: The Copper Queen Colt
  39. 32:32SHOT Show Finds and Future Articles

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I start participating in Cowboy Action Shooting?

The best way to start Cowboy Action Shooting is to attend a local match as a spectator. Observe the different categories, talk to participants, and express your interest in trying. Many shooters are happy to let newcomers borrow their firearms to get a feel for the sport before making any personal investments.

What are the basic requirements for Cowboy Action Shooting attire?

For beginners in Cowboy Action Shooting, the essential attire includes jeans, boots, and a button-down shirt. A cowboy hat is also highly recommended to protect your head and prevent hot brass from falling down your shirt, which can be painful.

Is rattlesnake hunting dangerous, and how is it done safely?

Rattlesnake hunting requires caution. Safely dispatching them typically involves a .22 caliber firearm with snake shot, aiming for the head. Use snake tongs to handle the snake and a long tool like a machete to remove the head, avoiding direct contact with the body or head.

Are rattlesnake populations endangered?

In Arizona, where the speaker hunts, four out of 13 rattlesnake species are protected due to low populations. The remaining species are regulated, meaning they can be hunted within specific limits, similar to fishing or big game hunting regulations.

What is the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS)?

SASS is the governing body for Cowboy Action Shooting, providing rules, resources, and a community for participants. Their website, sassnet.com, offers information on joining, finding local clubs, and understanding the sport's various categories and safety guidelines.

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