The Indiana Single Action Shooting Society Cowboy Action Shoot took place from Sept. 13-15 at Paradise Pass in Etna Green. Event coordinators included (from left): Owner, Curt Ebersole; Rhonda Helser; and Troy Helser.
(Photo by Alyssa Richardson)

Men and women of all ages pulled on their boots, strapped on their holsters and grabbed their guns for the Single Action Shooting Society Indiana Cowboy Action Shoot at Paradise Pass, located at 8414 W, 25 S. in Etna Green. A total of 130 registered shooters attended this year’s event to compete with firearms typically associated with the taming of the “Old West” – the pistol, the rifle and the shotgun.

Paradise Pass is a Western fanatics dream. Tucked away in the countryside, the venue features 13 different stages for event goers to live out their cowboy fantasies. From a showdown at the jailhouse to a shoot out at the mineshaft or fort, the Pass features a variety of stages all with their own unique set of rules, props and script.

SASS registered shooters were able to enjoy 10 different stages during the event. each complete with its own rules for shooting, scenario and props. Shooters are timed and judged on their accuracy to determine overall winners in several categories as well as an overall best shooter award. 

According to Curt Ebersole, Paradise Pass owner, though the event does feature a stiff competition, event goers attend for a variety of reasons ranging from role playing and costumes to enjoying the overall sense of camaraderie. In addition, Ebersole stated that the Pass welcomes newcomers to the sport noting that event features on average one or two beginners each year.

Participants of the event were able to shoot rifles, pistols and shotguns at 10 different Old West themed stages.
(Photo by Alyssa Richardson)

Though not all who attend do so for the spirit of competition, winners are able to get their hands on some sweet cowboy loot. Prizes included customized spurs, gun holsters, belt buckles, plaques and free shoot tickets for other big events.

When asked how the idea to build Paradise Pass arose, Ebersole credited fellow “Regulators” and event organizers Troy and Rhonda Helser (known by their shooting aliases of “Furball” and “Lil Sis”). According to the Regulators, the formation of Paradise Pass began when Troy and Rhonda first met Curt and delivered targets for shooting to his property. After placing the targets, the three thought the property would make a great location for a cowboy shooting range.

“Everybody put ideas together as to what we wanted to have,” stated Ebersole. “We started drawing plans out on paper and were able to get sponsors. We started out with five stages and kept building more as time and money permitted.”

Though participants of the event build a strong sense of kinship with each other, many do not know each other’s real names. This is because participants leave their real names at the door to adopt a unique Old West alias.
(Photo by Alyssa Richardson)

Ebersole noted that though there is a registration fee for those who shoot and camp at the event, the event would not be possible without the help of volunteers who both help and are helped by the Regulators. Volunteers include youth from a local church who help collect bullet casings after a shooter performs his round. The Regulators supply these youth with donations to assist in funding youth mission trips.

Though the state event has concluded, Paradise Pass Regulators features monthly shooting events that are open to men and women of all ages and skill levels. In addition, Paradise Pass also offers a number of guns for those without their own to utilize during events. Entrance cost for monthly shoots is $15.

For more information call Ebersole at 574-354-7186 or Troy Helser at 574-376-0027 or visit the Paradise Pass website at www.paradisepassregulators.com/.