RUN N GUN

The Ultimate Test of Speed and Precision

WHAT IS RUN N GUN?

A Run N Gun is a timed competition that combines distance running with shooting. Competitors race through a multi-mile course on foot, stopping at designated stages to engage targets with both rifle and pistol.

It's a biathlon-style event — but instead of cross-country skiing, you're running through Oklahoma terrain. Hills, creek crossings, wooded draws, hay bales, and county roads. Your time starts when you leave the line and doesn't stop until you've completed all stages and crossed the finish line.

The Burial Mound hosts Run N Gun events on 270+ acres spanning two properties in Pawnee County. Courses range from 4 mile to 7 miles with 5–8 shooting stages integrated throughout.

4–7 MI Course Distance
5–8 Shooting Stages
5–600 Yard Targets
3–7 MIN Timed Releases

WHAT MAKES RUN AND GUN DIFFERENT

01

Real Terrain

No flat ranges. You'll run through Oklahoma prairie, dense woods, creeks, and hills. The course uses every feature of the 270+ acre property.

02

Timed Releases

Competitors are released at timed intervals to prevent bottlenecks. Your clock starts at release and runs until you cross the finish line.

03

Two Properties

Stages span two farms connected by county roads. Stage separation creates a competition environment unlike any other shooting event.

04

Scoring

Total time + time penalties for missed targets. Every penalty adds seconds to your stage time. Accuracy matters as much as speed.

05

Awards & Community

Prizes from our sponsors, a meal included with entry, and a community of competitors who come back event after event. This isn't just a match — it's a culture.

FIRST TIME AT A RUN N GUN?

Everything you need to register, prepare, and finish your first Burial Mound Run N Gun.

ARE YOU READY?

You should be an experienced shooter before entering. This is not a beginner firearms course. You need to be comfortable with:

  • Loading, unloading, and making safe both a rifle and pistol
  • Engaging targets from standing, kneeling, prone, and sometimes uncomfortable positions
  • Moving with loaded firearms under RO supervision
  • Basic malfunction remediation under stress

You do not need to be a fast runner. Many competitors walk significant portions of the course. Finishing is the goal for your first run.

HOW THE EVENT WORKS

01

Register

Visit the Events page for registration links. Events sell out quick — registration generally opens months before the event. Follow us on social for announcements.

02

Check-In

Arrive during the check-in window listed on your confirmation. Be staged and ready before your run time — not arriving at that time.

03

Shooters Meeting

Mandatory for all competitors. The Match Director briefs safety rules, course layout, stage descriptions, scoring, and emergency procedures. Ask every question you have here — not at the stage.

04

Your Release

Competitors are released individually on timed intervals — approximately every 5 minutes. Be ready and near the starting line before your start time. When your name is called, move to the starting area. Your clock starts at release and doesn't stop until you cross the finish line.

05

The Course

A marked route through Oklahoma fields, woods, creeks, and hills across 270+ acres. Follow the course markers. At each stage, wait in the stage queue until the RO calls you. Start your stopwatch when you arrive at the stage — you are responsible for tracking your own wait time and reporting it to the RO.

06

Finish

Cross the finish line, clear your firearms. Awards follow when all competitors finish. Entry includes a meal — stick around for prizes and giveaways.

GEAR CHECKLIST

You carry everything from start to finish. No resupply at your vehicle.

Firearms & Carry

  • REQ Centerfire rifle with sling — sling is mandatory, rifle must stay attached to your body between stages
  • REQ Centerfire pistol in a rigid retention holster — trigger fully covered, retained at run pace (no shoulder holsters, belly bands, or pocket holsters)
  • REC Dedicated magazine carry — chest rig or belt with mag pouches. Pockets work but retention matters on the move

Ammunition

  • REQ Rifle and pistol ammo — carry at least 2x the round count published for the event. Round counts vary per event; check your email for updates
  • REQ Loaded magazines ready at the start line
  • REQ No tracers, incendiary, armor-piercing, or steel/tungsten core projectiles

Safety & Medical

  • REQ Eye protection
  • REQ Ear protection — electronic strongly recommended so you can hear RO commands clearly
  • REC Tourniquet / IFAK carried on your person, not in your vehicle
  • REC Spare batteries for electronic ear pro and optics

Timing & Tools

  • REQ Stopwatch, watch, or phone — you are responsible for tracking your own stage wait time and reporting it to the RO
  • REC Knife or multi-tool — occasional stage tasks require it
  • REC Basic weapon servicing tools, small roll of electrical tape, and zip-ties

Hydration & Nutrition

  • REC Water — minimum 2–2.5L for summer events. This is non-negotiable and not a place to save weight. Hydrate the day before, not just the morning of
  • REC Hydration pack — hands-free carry preferred
  • REC Energy gels or snacks — something compact like gel packs for on-course fueling without adding weight

Clothing & Personal

  • REQ Weather-appropriate clothing — see seasonal notes below
  • REC Trail runners or boots — if choosing between flexibility and support, choose support
  • REC Gloves — barricades and props sitting in afternoon sun get hot to handle
  • REC Ball cap or head cover
  • REC Change of clothes for after the run — you will be dirty and or wet
  • REC Sunscreen applied before you arrive
  • REC DEET bug spray — ticks are a real concern in Oklahoma fields and woods

SEASONAL CONDITIONS

Every season presents different challenges on the Burial Mound course. Plan for conditions — don't just react to them.

Summer — Extreme Heat

  • Oklahoma summers run 90–105°F+ on course. There is no shade on the open field sections or at some stages
  • Water is non-negotiable — 2–2.5L minimum, more if you run hard or plan to be on the course for a while
  • Lightweight long-sleeve sun shirt and lightweight pants protect from sun exposure, reduce burn, and keep bugs off
  • Start hydrating the day before the event
  • Apply sunscreen
  • Electrolyte supplements (LMNT or similar) help maintain performance in the heat
  • Know the signs of heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness, fast or weak pulse, nausea. Tell an RO immediately if you feel them. We will help get you off the course and medical attention if needed
🌧

Spring / Fall — Mild & Rain

  • Most comfortable running conditions, but Oklahoma spring/fall weather is volatile — 70°F and sunny can become 50°F and storming within an hour
  • Layering system: moisture-wicking base, light mid-layer, packable wind/rain shell that fits in a pocket or under your rig
  • Creek crossings become deeper and faster after rain — expect wet feet and plan footwear accordingly
  • Mud affects footing on hills and embankments — lugged sole trail footwear is strongly recommended over road shoes
  • Check the forecast the morning of, but do not rely on it. Dress to manage both outcomes
  • Lightning: the MD has sole authority to suspend the event. If you hear thunder on course, find cover and staff with radios for official calls
  • Ticks are most active in spring — DEET works, do a full check after the event

Winter — Extreme Cold & Snow

  • January events can run from 5°F to 50°F — sometimes the same weekend. Don't dress for the forecast; dress in layers you can shed
  • Layering system: moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid layer, wind-blocking outer shell. Avoid cotton — it retains moisture and kills heat retention
  • Hands: cold fingers affect trigger control, mag changes, and comfort. Liner gloves under a shooting glove, or gloves with trigger-finger compatibility
  • Lubricants change viscosity in cold — confirm your rifle and pistol function with your carry ammo and lube at low temps before the event
  • Snow and ice on course significantly affect footing — trail shoes with aggressive lug pattern help
  • Batteries (ear pro, optics) drain faster in cold — carry spares in a chest or inner pocket where body heat keeps them warm
  • Post-run hypothermia risk is real after sweating through a cold event — have dry layers and a warm layer waiting at the finish

TIPS FROM THE FIELD

Don't rush stages

Penalties add up fast. Taking two extra seconds to settle your breathing and confirm your sight picture before breaking a shot is almost always faster than rushing and adding a penalty.

Pre-run your kit

Run around your block fully loaded before event day. Does the sling chafe? Does the holster retain at a jog? Does your mag carrier dump mags on obstacles? Find the problems before the course does.

Walk when you need to

A steady pace with clean stages beats sprinting and missing targets. No one judges you for walking. The course is designed to test everyone — pace yourself.

Listen at the shooters meeting

Stage brief supersedes everything posted online or in the confirmation email. The RO's verbal brief at each stage is final. If you're unclear about which firearm engages which target, ask before "Make Ready" — not after.

Know your malfunction drills

Malfunctions happen. Remediation is done on your time, not wait time, and without assistance from anyone else. Reps on tap-rack-assess and clearing a double-feed before the event pay off when your hands are shaking and your heart rate is 160.

Section 1

Safety Rules

1.1Competitor Responsibility

It is the competitor’s responsibility to read and understand the rules and stage briefings set forth and agree to be subject to these rules while participating in an event.

1.2Basic Firearms Safety Rules

Basic firearms safety rules will be followed at all times:

  • 1.2.1Treat all guns as if they are always loaded.
  • 1.2.2Never let the muzzle cover anything that you are not willing to destroy.
  • 1.2.3Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target.
  • 1.2.4Be sure of your target and what is behind it.
1.3Cold Range
COLD RANGE: All events operate on a COLD RANGE. Firearms shall be unloaded at all times except when directly under the supervision of a Range Officer (RO) during an active Course of Fire (COF).
  • 1.3.1Rifles shall be transported between stages with detachable magazines removed and chamber empty. Slings are required (see Section 3.4).
  • 1.3.2Pistols shall remain holstered at all times between stages. Chamber shall be empty; a magazine may be inserted.
  • 1.3.3Competitors shall not handle, manipulate, or load any firearm outside of the active shooting stage under RO supervision. Any such action observed between stages is grounds for Match DQ under Section 9.
1.4Eye and Ear Protection

Eye and ear protection must be worn at all times while at a shooting stage during a Course of Fire (COF).

1.5Abandoning Firearms
  • 1.5.1During the COF, a competitor may be required to abandon a firearm in order to transition to another. A competitor shall not engage targets with more than one gun in their hands during a COF.
  • 1.5.2Designated locations designed to safely accommodate abandoned firearms shall be pointed out to the competitor during the stage briefing.
  • 1.5.3Firearms shall be abandoned in one of the following conditions only.
  • 1.5.4MANUAL SAFETY ENGAGED — with the manual safety in the engaged (safe) position.
  • 1.5.5EMPTY — empty chamber with no live rounds in the firearm or magazine.
Section 2

Range Commands and Procedures

2.1Make Ready

The RO will give the “Make Ready” command then direct and supervise the competitor through the process of preparing firearms for the stage.

2.2Are You Ready / Standby

After the competitor has made ready firearms to be used on the stage, the RO will accompany them to the start position. The RO will then issue the commands “Are You Ready” followed shortly by “Standby” and the activation of the timer. The lack of any negative response from the competitor after being issued the “Are You Ready?” command indicates that they fully understand the requirements of the stage and are ready to proceed. If the competitor is not ready, they shall state “No” or “Not Ready.” Competitors should assume the required start position to indicate their readiness to the RO.

2.3STOP

Any RO assigned to a stage may issue this command at any time during the stage. The competitor must immediately cease firing, stop moving, and wait for further instruction from the RO.

2.4Unload and Show Clear

If the competitor has finished shooting, they shall lower their firearm and present it for inspection by the RO with the muzzle pointed downrange, magazine removed, slide/bolt locked or held open and chamber empty. The RO will instruct and accompany the competitor to safely unload all firearms used on the stage.

2.5Range is Clear

This command shall be issued only after all firearms have been cleared by the competitor and RO. This declaration signifies the end of the stage. Once this declaration is made, officials and competitors may move downrange to score and reset targets if necessary.

2.6Stage Brief Supersedes Posted Information

The stage brief read by the RO supersedes any previously posted stage information.

2.7Competitor Self-Sufficiency

The competitor must carry everything they need to complete the course and all stages when starting the run. Competitors will not be permitted to return to their vehicle for re-supply. This includes water, ammunition, a stopwatch, tools, etc.

  • 2.7.1Exception: The 15k or 20k, 2-lap division. Competitors in these divisions will be allowed to re-supply between laps while on their run time.
2.8Stage Wait Time and Stopwatch

When a competitor arrives at a stage, they will be given the stage brief and start shooting, or they will be instructed to start their wait time on their own stopwatch. Competitors are responsible for keeping their wait time honestly at each stage. Wait time will be recorded by the RO and deducted from run time.

2.9Equipment Carry

The competitor will carry all personal equipment throughout each stage unless otherwise stated in the stage brief.

Section 3

Firearms

3.1Serviceability

All firearms used by participants must be serviceable and safe. ROs may demand examination of a participant’s firearm or related equipment at any time to check that they are functioning safely. If any such item is declared unserviceable or unsafe by an RO, it shall be withdrawn from the event until the item is repaired to the satisfaction of the RO, Range Master, or Match Director.

3.2Malfunction Repair

If a participant’s firearm becomes unserviceable during competition, the competitor may attempt to make the firearm serviceable again under supervision of an RO, without any assistance, parts, or tools from any other person. Wait time will not be used for this; it must be done on run time.

3.3Fire Mode

Firearms — whether semi-auto, select-fire, or full-auto — may only be fired in semi-automatic mode.

3.4Slings Required

A sling or retention device is required on all rifles. The firearm must remain attached to the competitor’s body during transitions and movement between stages. Unslung rifles carried in-hand between stages are prohibited.

Section 4

Holsters and Equipment

4.1Handgun Holsters
  • 4.1.1Holsters must be able to safely retain the handgun during vigorous movement.
  • 4.1.2The holster material must be rigid and completely cover the trigger on all semi-automatic pistols as well as the cylinder on revolvers.
  • 4.1.3Due to safety concerns, shoulder holsters, “belly bands,” magazine pouch holsters, cross-draw chest holsters, and pocket holsters are not allowed.
Section 5

Ammunition

5.1Prohibited Ammunition
Prohibited: Tracer, incendiary, armor-piercing, and steel/tungsten core ammunition. Violations may result in penalties up to Match DQ and reimbursement for target and/or property damage. Steel-cased ammunition with non-steel projectiles is permitted.
5.2Allowed Pistol Calibers

Only the following pistol calibers are permitted:

  • 5.2.1.380 ACP
  • 5.2.29mm
  • 5.2.3.40 S&W
  • 5.2.4.45 ACP
  • 5.2.510mm
  • 5.2.6.38 Special
  • 5.2.7.357 Magnum
5.3Allowed Rifle Calibers

Only the following rifle calibers are permitted:

  • 5.3.15.45×39mm
  • 5.3.25.56×45mm / .223 Remington
  • 5.3.37.62×39mm
  • 5.3.4.300 AAC Blackout
  • 5.3.5FN 5.7×28mm
  • 5.3.6Other calibers may be allowed for specific events or at Match Director discretion.
5.4Projectile Type

All cartridges shall fire a single projectile only. No shot shells or multi-projectile loads.

Section 6

Targets

6.1Stage Brief Specifies Targets

The stage brief will specify target type, count, and the firearm(s) required for proper engagement.

6.2Competitor Responsibility

Competitors are responsible for listening to the stage brief and asking questions prior to receiving the “Make Ready” command regarding which firearms may engage which targets, in order to avoid procedural penalties or stage safety penalties including DQ.

Section 7

Scoring

7.1Appeals

Any scoring issue a competitor does not agree with may be appealed to the stage RO, and if not resolved at the stage, the Match Director or Range Master will review and address the appeal after the competitor’s run.

7.2Shoot / Run Weighting

Shoot and run time weighting is 50/50.

7.3Cumulative Stage Points

The match is scored as cumulative stage points in each division.

7.4Divisions Scored Separately

All divisions will be scored separately regardless of participation. Subject to change for Team or Special divisions.

7.5Targets Must Be Neutralized

Targets must be neutralized to avoid time penalties.

7.6Neutralization Standards
  • 7.6.1Paper/cardboard — required number of hits anywhere on target within perforations.
  • 7.6.2Steel knock-down (KD) plates must fall to score.
  • 7.6.3Long-range flashing targets must be struck with the required number of bullets per engagement to score.
  • 7.6.4Static plates must be struck with the required number of bullets per engagement to score.
  • 7.6.5ROs shall call “Hit” to indicate to the competitor a neutralized target such as static steel, flash targets, etc.
Section 8

Stage Penalties

8.1Time Penalties

All stage penalties are assessed as fixed time additions of 40 seconds to the competitor’s stage time.

  • 8.1.1FTN (Failure to Neutralize) — one hit when multiple hits are required, or a missed target.
  • 8.1.2Miss — an un-hit target.
  • 8.1.3No-Shoot — a hit on any target designated as a friendly or no-shoot target.
  • 8.1.4Procedural violation — failure to follow stage procedures, shooting under walls, or not using correct positions as denoted in the stage brief.
Penalty Time Added
Failure to Neutralize (FTN) 40 sec
Miss 40 sec
No-Shoot 40 sec
Procedural violation 40 sec
Stage DQ (negligent discharge, muzzle break, etc.) No score for stage
Match DQ (safety violations, cheating, etc.) Full disqualification from event
Section 9

Match Disqualifications

9.1Non-Arbitrable Safety Violations
Safety violations are not subject to arbitration.
9.2Match DQ Causes

A Match Disqualification (DQ) will result in complete disqualification from the event and the competitor will not be allowed to continue. The following are grounds for Match DQ:

  • 9.2.1Cheating.
  • 9.2.2Cutting the course intentionally.
  • 9.2.3Altering course, COF, or score cards.
  • 9.2.4Unsportsmanlike conduct.
  • 9.2.5An intentional or unintentional discharge aimed over a berm or significantly off target in an unsafe direction.
  • 9.2.6Any competitor found with a round loaded in the chamber of any firearm while not under the direct supervision of a Range Officer shall be subject to DQ.
  • 9.2.7A competitor impaired by and deemed unsafe as a result of drugs, legal or otherwise, or alcohol.
Section 10

Stage Disqualifications

10.1Stage DQ Causes

A Stage Disqualification (SDQ) will result in no score for the stage. The following are Stage Disqualifications:

  • 10.1.1 Negligent Discharge: A competitor who causes a negligent discharge not in the direction of a target shall be stopped by an RO as soon as possible. Rule 9.2.5 still applies. Includes:
    • 10.1.1.1A shot which occurs while loading, reloading, or unloading any firearm after the “Make Ready” command and before the “Range is Clear” command.
    • 10.1.1.2A shot which occurs during remedial action in the case of a malfunction, while transferring a firearm between hands, or during movement between shooting positions.
  • 10.1.2Dropping or losing control of a loaded firearm at any time after the “Make Ready” command and before the “Range is Clear” command.
  • 10.1.3Allowing the muzzle of a firearm to break the 180-degree safety plane or designated safe direction at any time.
  • 10.1.4Allowing the muzzle of any firearm to point at any part of the competitor’s body (i.e., sweeping) during a COF.
Section 11

Appeals

11.1Appeals Process
  • Decisions are initially made by the stage’s RO.
  • If the competitor disagrees with the RO’s decision, the Range Master or Match Director will be called to make the final ruling. Competitor’s run time will continue during the appeal.
  • Safety violations will not be subject to arbitration.
11.2Hit / Miss Calls
  • The RO has final decision on all HIT/MISS calls.
Section 12

Medical and Emergency Procedures

12.1Medical Emergency
  • 12.1.1If any competitor or official requires medical assistance, any person on the course may call “CEASE FIRE” loudly and repeatedly. All shooting shall halt immediately.
  • 12.1.2ROs at each stage shall acknowledge with a “STAGE CLEAR” call or radio confirmation before competitors resume.
  • 12.1.3Designated first-aid kits and trauma supplies shall be available at the registration area. Competitors are encouraged to carry personal IFAKs (Individual First Aid Kits).
  • 12.1.4In the event of a serious injury, call 911 immediately. Provide location details: Burial Mound Shooting Center address. The Match Director or designated safety officer will coordinate with emergency responders.
12.2Lost Competitor Protocol
  • 12.2.1Competitors who fail to finish within 2 hours shall be flagged by the scoring station.
  • 12.2.2A designated RO or MD shall initiate contact (radio, phone, or physical check) for any competitor exceeding the maximum time.
12.3Weather and Course Abort
  • 12.3.1The MD has sole authority to suspend or abort the event for safety reasons including severe weather, lightning, or course hazard.
Section 13

Refund Policy

Window Refund
13.1   Until 60 days before the event Full refund, minus fees
13.2   Until 30 days before the event Half refund, minus fees
13.3   Within 30 days of the event No refund

RESULTS

Select an event below to view full standings and scores.

READY TO RUN?