As a long-time outdoor writer and shooting enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the stories of the American West. Few tales capture the spirit of frontier marksmanship quite like the legend of Tom Quigley and the incredible long-range shooting feats he performed. The question, what gun did Quigley use, is one that echoes through shooting circles, and it’s a story steeped in history and competition. Today, that legacy lives on in the Quigley Shoot, an annual event held in Buffalo, Montana, that draws shooters from across the country. This article will delve into the history, the rifles – especially the famed 45-100 Sharps – and how you can participate in this truly unique experience.
Tom Quigley wasn’t a fictional character created for a movie (though the 1990 film Quigley Down Under certainly popularized his name!). He was a real-life buffalo hunter employed by the Canadian Pacific Railway in the 1870s. The railway needed a reliable food source for its workers building through the harsh Canadian prairies. Quigley, along with other hunters, was tasked with supplying buffalo meat. However, Quigley stood out. He was renowned for his incredible accuracy at extreme distances, reportedly able to consistently hit buffalo at over 600 yards with his single-shot rifle.
The story goes that Quigley was contracted to supply buffalo meat, but his shooting was so precise that he wasted very few animals. He was eventually dismissed because his efficiency threatened the business of other, less skilled hunters. This tale, while perhaps embellished over time, highlights the exceptional marksmanship required of buffalo hunters during that era. It’s important to remember the context: these weren’t target shooters; they were providing sustenance in a challenging environment. History.com provides excellent background on the era of the buffalo hunters.
The most frequently asked question, what rifle did Quigley use, centers around the 45-100 Sharps. While historical records are somewhat ambiguous, the consensus among experts is that Quigley primarily used a Sharps Model 1874 rifle chambered in 45-100. This was a powerful cartridge for its time, capable of delivering significant energy at long ranges. The Sharps rifle was a falling-block single-shot, known for its accuracy and reliability.
The 45-100 Sharps cartridge is a black powder cartridge, meaning it uses black powder as its propellant. It fires a .458-inch diameter bullet weighing around 405 grains, propelled by 100 grains of black powder. This combination generates substantial recoil and requires a skilled shooter to manage. The cartridge’s trajectory is also significantly curved at long distances, demanding precise calculations and holdover adjustments. MidwayUSA offers resources on black powder and its characteristics.
Several factors made the Sharps rifle and the 45-100 cartridge ideal for buffalo hunting. The large-caliber bullet delivered a devastating blow, ensuring a quick and humane kill. The flat trajectory (relative to other cartridges of the time) allowed for accurate shooting at longer ranges. And the rifle’s robust construction could withstand the harsh conditions of the frontier. The Sharps rifle wasn’t just a tool; it was a lifeline for those who depended on it.
Inspired by the legend of Tom Quigley, the Quigley Shoot was established in 1992 by the Big Timber Rifle and Pistol Club in Buffalo, Montana. It’s a challenging long-range shooting competition that tests a shooter’s skill, accuracy, and understanding of ballistics. The shoot is held annually, typically in September, and attracts participants from all over the United States and even internationally.
The Quigley Shoot isn’t your typical target shooting competition. Shooters are required to engage steel targets at distances ranging from 800 to 1,000 yards. The targets are relatively small, and the course of fire demands precise shooting under challenging conditions. Here’s a breakdown of the typical course of fire:
Shooters are scored based on the number of hits they make. The competition emphasizes accuracy over speed, and the use of modern optics is generally discouraged. Many participants choose to shoot with period-correct rifles and sights, adding to the historical authenticity of the event. You can find more details about the event at the Big Timber Rifle and Pistol Club website.
The Buffalo shooting range, where the Quigley Shoot is held, is a stunning location nestled in the foothills of the Crazy Mountains. The scenery alone is worth the trip. Beyond the competition, the Quigley Shoot is a social event, bringing together like-minded individuals who share a passion for shooting and the history of the American West. The nearby town of Buffalo offers lodging, dining, and other amenities. Montana itself is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Glacier National Park is within driving distance, offering breathtaking scenery and challenging trails.
Participating in the Quigley Shoot requires significant preparation. It’s not an event for beginners. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to consider:
Consider taking a long-range shooting course from a reputable instructor. REI Expert Advice (https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/long-range-shooting.html) offers valuable information on long-range shooting techniques.
Safety is paramount at the Quigley Shoot. All participants are required to adhere to strict safety rules. It’s also important to practice responsible shooting ethics. Leave No Trace principles should be followed at all times, minimizing your impact on the environment. Respect the land, the wildlife, and the traditions of the American West.
The Quigley Shoot continues to grow in popularity, attracting a new generation of shooters who are fascinated by the history and challenge of long-range marksmanship. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of Tom Quigley and the skills of the buffalo hunters who helped shape the American West. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or simply curious about this unique event, the Quigley Shoot offers a glimpse into a bygone era and a chance to test your skills against the best.
If you're planning a trip to Montana for the Quigley Shoot, be sure to check out our guide to Montana Outdoor Adventures for tips on lodging, dining, and other activities. And for more information on historical firearms, read our article on The Evolution of American Rifles.