Open Shotgun Equip Rule Question

[Gunjack]

Arrendondo loading ramps: Occasionally there's a stage that puts you in an odd position which may require an extra round or two to complete the COF and this ramp causes an obstruction. Do most 3G matches rule allow that ramp to be removed and then reinstalled ... or is there a common rule that covers this ... or there just isn't one?

[Rookie]

The answer to your question is match rule specific, but... the rule sets that I have studied are fairly specific about equipment modifications during a match. My opinion (for what it's worth)... your request to install/remove loading ramps would not be allowed at most matches.

1. SMM3G rule 4.4 would prohibit the change you are asking about
2. USPSA MG Rule 2.1.9 states that a significant change to a firearm during a match (without RM approval) is grounds for disqualification (unsportsmanlike conduct)
3. RM3G Rules 4.b. & 4.c address the same issue(s) but are more generally stated

The only generally legal "modifications" allowed in most matches I attend are attachment and removal of bipods, slings and other "minor" accessories (SMM3G 4.4). The loading ramps that you note above would probably not fall into the "minor" category.

[CJW]

An Open shooter I know told me that for the "rounds in a bucket" stage at the Pan American removing the chute was allowed. That may be particularl to IPSC rules, though. I have certainly never seen an Open shooter remove the speed loader at a match and I would tend to see doing that as a prohibited modification, just as Rookie described.

[outerlimits]

Just throw in another stick! It's faster that loading 2 by hand