NCOWS is an acronym for the "National Congress of Old West Shootists". Its spelling adheres to the conventional English phonetic system. The acronym is spelled out by pronouncing each letter as /ɛn si ˈoʊ dubl ju ɛs/, in the order they appear in the phrase. The convention of using acronyms to shorten lengthy names and titles has become widespread in modern English usage. NCOWS is widely known in communities associated with Western Americana, particularly among gun enthusiasts and historical reenactors.
NCOWS stands for the National Congress of Old West Shootists, which is a national organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the Old West heritage and the sport of Cowboy Action Shooting. Cowboy Action Shooting is a competitive shooting sport that seeks to recreate the spirit and ambiance of the American Old West through the use of period dress and firearms.
The NCOWS serves as a governing body for Cowboy Action Shooting events, establishing rules and guidelines for competition, as well as ensuring the safety of participants. The organization organizes regional and national matches where members can compete against one another in various shooting disciplines, such as single action revolver, lever action rifle, and side-by-side shotgun.
In addition to competitive shooting, the NCOWS also focuses on the preservation and promotion of the Old West heritage. Members of the organization often participate in reenactments, living history demonstrations, and historical education programs to bring to life the rich history of the American West. The organization fosters a sense of camaraderie and community among like-minded individuals who share a passion for the Old West and its legacy.
Overall, the National Congress of Old West Shootists (NCOWS) is an organization that celebrates and preserves the traditions of the American Old West through the sport of Cowboy Action Shooting and various historical and educational activities.