Drinking Policy – The Ranga Rules of Conduct

Effective Immediately – All Participants Are Subject to This Policy

This document outlines the official rules and expectations regarding drinking etiquette at the Ranga. All members, guests, and participants are expected to abide by the following standards to ensure the continued spirit, culture, and integrity of the Ranga experience.

Section 1: Buffalo

1.1 Rule Definition

The Buffalo rule pertains to the designated hand used when consuming different types of beverages. The following rules apply:

  • Beer must be consumed using the left hand.

  • Wine, Cider & Spirits must be consumed using the right hand.

Participants are free to hold their drinks in either hand. However, once the drink touches the lips, it must be in the correct hand. Any infringement may be called out by another participant with the declaration: "Buffalo!"

1.2 Infringement Examples

  • Drinking beer in the right hand

  • Drinking wine or spirits in the Left hand

1.3 Clarifying Statement

A simplified way to remember the rule:“Beer in your left, everything else in your right — unless it’s a Turbo Shandy, then do what you like.”

1.4 Turbo Shandy Exception

A Turbo Shandy refers to any beverage that is a combination of beer with spirits or wine. Turbo Shandies are exempt from Buffalo rules.

1.5 Consequences of Infringement

Any verified infringement of the Buffalo rule requires the culprit to skull their vessel immediately.

Section 2: Fingers

2.1 Rule Definition

If a participant places their drink within finger-length from the edge of any flat surface (e.g. table, bar), another participant may extend a finger from the edge of that surface toward the drink. If contact is possible, the declaration "Fingers!" may be made.

2.2 Validity Conditions

  • The finger must reach the drink from the edge of the surface without moving beyond natural finger extension.

  • The drink must be unattended (i.e. the participant’s hand is not on the vessel).

2.3 Nullification

If the drinker has their hand on the vessel, the Fingers rule is null and void.

2.4 Consequence of Infringement

If a valid call of Fingers is made, the culprit must finish their drink.

Section 3: Bolthands

3.1 Rule Definition

If a participant is observed holding their vessel with both hands, another participant may call "Bolthands!"

3.2 Consequence of Infringement

Upon a valid call of Bolthands, the individual must choose one of the following:

  • Finish their drink while keeping both hands on the vessel, or

  • Pour the remainder of the drink over their own head

Section 4: False Accusations

4.1 Definition

If a participant incorrectly accuses another of breaking any of the above rules (Buffalo, Fingers, Bolthands) when no infringement has occurred, this is known as a False Accusation.

4.2 Consequence

The individual who made the false accusation must finish their own drink.

Section 5: Exemptions

5.1 Medical Exemptions

Participants may be exempted from Buffalo rules due to legitimate physical injury. For example:

  • A participant with a broken left arm may be permitted to drink beer with the right hand.

5.2 Approval Requirement

All exemptions must be submitted in writing and require formal approval from Charles Gibson.

Section 6: General Conduct

These rules are in place to maintain a high standard of banter, camaraderie, and accountability among all Ranga participants. Know the rules. Respect the calls. Accept the consequences.

Section 7: The Winchester Clause

7.1 Origin and Symbolism
​​​​​​​The Winchester title originates from the Winchester Rifle, historically used in the mass hunting of American bison. As such, Winchesters hold a unique status and possess the rare ability to nullify a Buffalo call.


7.2 Becoming a Winchester
To become a Winchester, participants must:

  • Complete the official online Winchester Registration Form (Become a Winchester)

  • Await approval

  • Receive their official Winchester Card

The Winchester Card must be carried at all times.

7.3 Winchester Tattoo
A sanctioned Winchester Tattoo carries equal authority to the physical Winchester Card.


7.4 Buffalo Immunity 

If a Winchester is accused of Buffalo, they may present their Winchester Card (or tattoo).This immediately converts the call into a False Accusation, requiring the accuser to skull their own drink.


7.5 Restrictions on Winchesters

  • A Winchester cannot call Buffalo on others

  • A Winchester may drink with either hand, as they are immune

  • However, doing so is heavily frowned upon among fellow Winchesters and may result in social judgement, ridicule, or banter-based consequences (non-official)

7.6 Scope of Immunity

​​​​​​​Winchesters are not exempt from:

  • Fingers

  • Bolthands

  • Any other established Ranga rule

7.7 Allegiance Declaration 

All participants must formally pledge allegiance to one of the following:

  • Buffalo

  • Winchester

Neutrality is not permitted. Your status defines your rights, responsibilities, and vulnerabilities within the Ranga system.