The Family 3-Gun Shootout

posted on October 18, 2012
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
rackley2015_fs.jpg

Sons of Guns seem to have fans from all walks of life, including a couple of big boys in the firearms industry—Brownells and Hornady.

Pete Brownell and Jason Hornady are such fans that they flew to Louisiana to discuss the development of 3-gun sets customized for each guy’s father. Both groups settled on Red Jacket ARs, Saiga 12-gauge shotguns and 9 mm 1911s (they were called 2011s on the show). However, each customized the guns to what he thought would be best for his father while trying to upstage the other. Jason made it plain that there was some friendly competition between the families when he said: “I want the same thing, but make mine just that much cooler than his.” Of course, it was all in fun as the two men have been friends for many years, and wanted to have a friendly father/son 3-gun competition between the two families.

As is typical in a drama-based reality show, there were a few problems with finishing the guns in time. Part of the problem was that Chris, Will’s son-in-law, decided that he was inspired to build an additional 3-gun set so he and Will could compete in the competition. Another problem was drama, but since drama is built into every TV show, that was expected.

In the end, the Sons of Guns crew was able to finish the Brownell, Hornady and Red Jacket guns in time for the competition, which Red Jacket won to the surprise of many, including myself. Check the ARs out on Brownells website and see if you agree with their choices. Personally, I would love a 1911 in 9 mm with a double-stack magazine, but would probably stick to my personal AR and more standard shotgun. How about you?

Latest

Galactic Pistol Alliance 1
Galactic Pistol Alliance 1

The Galactic Pistol Alliance: An Entry Point For New Competition Shooters

Galactic Pistol Alliance jettisons rule confusion and offers a much more relaxed model for newcomers to competition shooting, all while keeping cool shooting stages and an emphasis on safety.

NRA Supporter & Gold Expert Mike Fuljenz Wins Newsletter Award

Longtime NRA Supporter Mike Fuljenz, founder of Universal Coin & Bullion, was awarded the 2026 Best Investment Newsletter award by the Numismatic Literary Guild. 

Keepin’ It Simple: Chiappa Wildlands 92 Field & Core Models

Chiappa USA is returning the Wildland series of lever-action rifles to its roots with the 92 Field and Core, designs that keep it simple while still offering modern features.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 5, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Gunsite Marks 50 Years With Alumni Shoot in Paulden

More than 400 competitors gathered at the Arizona academy founded by Lt. Col. Jeff Cooper, as elected officials urged turnout ahead of the midterms.

I Have This Old Gun: Standard Arms Model G

There is an adage that goes something to the effect of, “just because one can do something doesn’t mean it necessarily should be done.” This thought may aptly be applied to the short-lived Standard Arms Model G rifle.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.