As a long-time outdoor writer and shooting enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the stories of the American West. Few events capture the spirit of that era quite like the Quigley Shoot. Many ask, “what gun did Quigley use?” and the answer is steeped in history and a celebration of long-range marksmanship. This isn’t just a shooting competition; it’s a living tribute to the buffalo hunters of the late 19th century and a test of skill that draws competitors from across the nation. I’ll break down the history, the iconic firearms like the 45-100 Sharps, and how you can participate in or witness this incredible event held annually near Buffalo, Montana.
The Quigley Shoot isn’t named after a fictional character, but a real man: Tom Quigley. In 1886, Quigley was hired by the Canadian Pacific Railway to supply them with buffalo meat for their construction crews. He wasn’t alone; many skilled hunters were employed during this period. However, Quigley’s reputation for accuracy and efficiency stood out. He and his team were tasked with harvesting thousands of buffalo to feed the railway workers, and they did so using single-shot, large-bore rifles at incredible distances. The competition, first held in 1999, aims to recreate the conditions and challenges faced by these historical hunters. The Big Timber Rifle and Pistol Club, the organizers, are dedicated to preserving this legacy.
Imagine attempting to consistently hit a moving target – a buffalo – at distances exceeding 600 yards with a single-shot rifle, often in challenging weather conditions. These hunters weren’t just skilled marksmen; they were resourceful, adaptable, and possessed an intimate understanding of ballistics. They had to account for wind, temperature, and the trajectory of their bullets. The buffalo shooting range wasn’t a manicured shooting facility; it was the vast, unforgiving plains. Their success wasn’t just about hitting the target; it was about providing sustenance for a large workforce.
The question of “what rifle did Quigley use?” is a common one. While historical records aren’t definitive about Quigley’s exact rifle, the competition heavily favors and celebrates single-shot, large-bore rifles of the era. The most popular and arguably the most representative firearm is the 45-100 Sharps. This rifle, and others like it, were specifically designed for long-range buffalo hunting.
The 45-100 Sharps is a black powder cartridge rifle known for its flat trajectory and significant stopping power. It fires a heavy, .45 caliber bullet propelled by 100 grains of black powder. This combination delivers impressive energy downrange, making it ideal for taking down large game at extended distances. The Sharps rifle itself is a falling-block single-shot design, requiring the shooter to manually operate the lever after each shot. This adds to the challenge and emphasizes the importance of accuracy. You can find detailed information about the 45-100 Sharps and its history at Sharps Rifle Company.
While the 45-100 Sharps dominates, other rifles are also permitted and frequently seen at the Quigley shooting competition. These include:
The key requirement is that the rifle must be a single-shot, black powder cartridge design representative of the late 19th century.
The Quigley Shoot in Montana is held annually at the Big Timber Rifle and Pistol Club. The course of fire is designed to replicate the challenges faced by the original buffalo hunters. It consists of several stages, each at increasing distances, culminating in a final stage at 800 yards. Targets are steel silhouettes representing buffalo, and shooters are scored based on the time it takes to knock down all the targets.
Shooters are timed, and penalties are assessed for missed shots. The overall winner is the shooter with the fastest time and fewest penalties. The competition isn’t just about speed; it’s about consistent accuracy under pressure.
Participating in the Quigley Shoot requires significant preparation. Here’s a breakdown of essential skills and equipment:
The Leave No Trace principles are strictly enforced at the event, emphasizing responsible shooting and environmental stewardship.
You don’t have to be a competitor to enjoy the Quigley Shoot. Spectators are welcome and can witness the incredible skill and historical reenactment firsthand. The event attracts a diverse crowd of shooting enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious onlookers. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about the American West and appreciate the challenges faced by the buffalo hunters.
The Quigley Shoot is held near Buffalo, Montana, a small town with limited lodging options. It’s advisable to book accommodations well in advance. Nearby towns like Big Timber and Livingston offer a wider range of hotels and motels. Remember to pack for all types of weather, as Montana can experience significant temperature fluctuations, even in the summer. The National Park Service website offers information on nearby attractions, including Yellowstone National Park.
While the Quigley Shoot focuses on rifles, it’s worth noting the role of the buffalo hunter shotgun. Some hunters also used large-bore shotguns loaded with slugs to harvest buffalo, particularly at closer ranges. This practice, while less common than rifle hunting, adds another layer to the historical context.
The Quigley Shoot is more than just a shooting competition; it’s a celebration of American history, skill, and the spirit of the West. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or simply curious about the past, it’s an event that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. I encourage anyone with an interest in firearms, history, or the outdoors to consider experiencing this unique Montana tradition.