Regarding the "too many guns comments",
My view point: I like to shoot. I like to shoot alot.
My day job keeps me very busy with long hours and the 1 or 2 opportunities a month where I can go to a match, I usually always sign up for the 4 gun class . . . so I can shoot 4 guns. Realizing that an NCOWS match is a competitive shooting sport event, I don't see any reason to frown on folks that "take too many guns" to a match. I usually go to a match with 2 rifles, 2 shotguns, 3 to 4 handguns, and sometimes a pocket pistol and big bore rifle. If I see a stage where my 24" barrel sporting rifle will be more handy, I'll use it. If the 20" short rifle allows me to poke through a window quicker, I'll use it. I agree with OCB in frowning on short strokes and other non-period technology.
Some big matches are costly to enter and require an extended drive (11 hours each way to the Nationals this year). I see no reason not to bring some 'back-up guns', in case you have a mechanical failure. If you've shot CAS long enough, you know these failures do happen, even with well maintained guns.
Is this historically correct . . . no, but is it fun . . .yes. I almost alway have a gun cart that is compliant with NCOWS regulations. The only time I don't is when I choose to shoot working cowboy. If I was attending an event that was an actual reinactment, I would have no gun cart, because they did not exist in the period we observe. Do remember that NCOWS matches are not a true reinactment, but rather a period focused shooting match.
As long as NCOWS allows such, I will shoot my four gun class and usually will carry them in my NCOWS legal conveyance. I will enjoy the match along side my compadres competing in the shooting classes which they enjoy.
Pancho
P.S.: Bad hats should be outlawed.