rendevous

[newtewsmoke]

what could newcomers/beginners do/participate in at a first time 'vous? What events are there for kids? Where could we get info on any in our area. Family of 5, we all shoot, just starting BP tho, throw hawks and enjoy outdoors.We have none of the typical clothing that it looks like everyone wears to these events.

 

[DOUBLEDEUCE 1]

You might be able to find out about a rendezvous through your local shooting club/ range. You can also probably find out more information by looking on the web for muzzleloading activities. I have seen listings for events for several states. That should give you someplace to start.
As far as clothing etc. goes, I just wear blue jeans a shirt and a baseball cap. I do enjoy the other shooters who put time and effort into their period clothing. But for me, that just isn't in the cards right now. Mostly I go for the fun of it all. :thumbsup:
I have heard of shoots where they are strict about clothing and such, but I have never gone to participate or observe. Most of all, remember to enjoy yourself.

 

[MikeChapin]

Some rendezvous can be strict about period clothing and gear. Others really don't care all that much. If you show up with an inline you will probably get some grief but other than that nobody will raise an eyebrow. Check around with local people for the rules at the local events.

Here we have the 1838 Rendezvous that is set up for first timers. A lot of people wear period gear but there are plenty of others in just blue jeans and baseball cape. Many of the same people who put on the rendezvous also put on regular black powder shoots at the other range. There are no rules for dress or camping there.

The Western National was held in Wyoming this year. That is a different kettle of fish. You do have to have period gear to participate.

Just check around and see. It is them most fun you can have with your clothes on.

 

[Coot]

Events vary regarding their activities and rules. Almost all allow daytime visitors in modern clothing. (Always trying to bring in new participants). A day trip is a good way to see what is going on & also to visit traders and blanket sales (blanket sales often being a good way to get inexpensive starter gear so as to better fit in). Some events may allow shooters in modern clothes (a lot of shoots are that way) but other events limit competition to registered campers with pre 1840 gear & clothes. A number of events use the "this is a pre 1840 event" phrase to make clear that 1) it is not a reenactment limited to a very narrow timeframe and 2) that modern gear is not allowed after visitor or public hours. You should check a copy of Smoke & Fire News for events near you and check out a couple as day trippers to see what they are doing & what requirements they have. If contacted beforehand, most organizers are glad to go over rules/requirements which can avoid hard feelings later at the gate or firing line. As I said earlier, there is variation & you should be able to find events that you will enjoy as well as some whose rules may cause you to skip them.

 

[atki]

I don't know exactly where you live in Nebraska, but you should grab your family and head to the Museum of the Fur Trade in Chadron. Here is there website:
http://www.furtrade.org/

This will get you all excited!

WB

 

[newtewsmoke]

I don't know exactly where you live in Nebraska, but you should grab your family and head to the Museum of the Fur Trade in Chadron. Here is there website:
http://www.furtrade.org/

This will get you all excited!

WB

ive been by the museum several times, never had time to stop and check it out,will put it on the to do list!

 

[newtewsmoke]

are there many rendevous in the winter time or mainly a warmer weather "sport"?

 

[atki]

I know that we have one the first of January. But I live in San Diego, so the worst we would get is a little rain.

Here is a list of rendezvous:
http://www.crazycrow.com/events_rendezvous/

There are other lists out there somewhere.

WB