Page 1 of 1
Cowboy Reloads
Posted: Wed Sep 03, 2008 7:25 pm
by Oldgringo

Y'all:
What are "cowboy" reloads?

Re: Cowboy Reloads
Posted: Wed Sep 03, 2008 7:44 pm
by BobCat
Depends on the context. I read it to mean moderately soft loads suitable for cowboy action shooting. They use lead bullets, not jacketed, and have to be below a certain velocity (depending on caliber, I believe) to be sort of period authentic.
You can find out specifics at
http://www.sassnet.com/ - Single Action Shooting Society - if you want.
However, that is just what I think of when I read "Cowboy Reloads" - there may be another meaning I'm missing. Hope this helps.
edited to correct url
Re: Cowboy Reloads
Posted: Wed Sep 03, 2008 10:11 pm
by kalipsocs
My CHL Instructor used the term...actually he called it a "Texas Reload" but I am thinking they are one in the same. Basically, having 2 pieces on you so you don't have to actually reload your first gun. Shoot one dry and then go to the backup sorta thing. He used it jokingly but might have a good point!
Re: Cowboy Reloads
Posted: Thu Sep 04, 2008 8:35 am
by Xander
kalipsocs wrote:My CHL Instructor used the term...actually he called it a "Texas Reload" but I am thinking they are one in the same. Basically, having 2 pieces on you so you don't have to actually reload your first gun. Shoot one dry and then go to the backup sorta thing. He used it jokingly but might have a good point!
That's actually better known as a "New York reload" and I believe that it's named that because it was popularized by NYPD stakeout-unit member Jim Cirillo. BobCat gave an accurate explanation of the term "Cowboy Load." More explanation (and a bit of opinion) here:
http://www.sportscomet.com/Hunting/183886.htm
Re: Cowboy Reloads
Posted: Thu Sep 04, 2008 10:52 am
by kalipsocs
Xander wrote:kalipsocs wrote:My CHL Instructor used the term...actually he called it a "Texas Reload" but I am thinking they are one in the same. Basically, having 2 pieces on you so you don't have to actually reload your first gun. Shoot one dry and then go to the backup sorta thing. He used it jokingly but might have a good point!
That's actually better known as a "New York reload" and I believe that it's named that because it was popularized by NYPD stakeout-unit member Jim Cirillo. BobCat gave an accurate explanation of the term "Cowboy Load." More explanation (and a bit of opinion) here:
http://www.sportscomet.com/Hunting/183886.htm
Meh....Just what came to mind. But I wouldn't listen to me either!

Re: Cowboy Reloads
Posted: Thu Sep 04, 2008 4:00 pm
by Commander Cody
I was reading a magazine this morning. Shooters something (I don’t remember). In the advertisement it described the “Cowboy Load” as a lead bullet with the same low velocity as the old day shooters. I’m not sure what the purpose is.
Re: Cowboy Reloads
Posted: Thu Sep 04, 2008 4:54 pm
by BobCat
Commander,
The purpose is to get "close" to the old-time ballistics, for Cowboy Action Shooting.
It is a really fun sport. I used to do it, and sometimes think about going back to it (but I'm hooked on Highpower). The people are really nice, you don't really have to buy a fancy costume (jeans and boots, a cowboy hat, and a shirt with an old-time collar will get you by, unless you really want to spend some money and dress up to look like an old-timer).
The Texas Historical Shootist Society web site used to be in my .sig line but I took it out since I'm not a member any more. You may wish to go to
http://www.thss.org to have a look - they have some pictures and a lot of information.
If you like single action revolvers, lever action rifles, and side-by-side double barrel shotguns, it is the right sport for you.
Regards,
Andrew