IDPA Competition Questions and Answers

[Panhead Bill]

Thanks Chris, the condensed version was perfect.

Bill

[chicagobenz]

Hello Chris, Gail, Mas and the Proarms Team,

I shot my first IDPA Match the other day and it was great.  Where else can you have four scenario based shooting for $10.00.  IDPA had been on my radar for some time and hearing it on the forums helped to prod me to go.  It really helps to put into practice what one learns at a LFI Class.  I am going to try and start going once a month and I know this will help my training regimen. 

Thank You,

Harry

[Gail]

Hi Harry,

      Glad you had a good time. Out of curiosity, where did you shoot the match?

Gail

[Kevin]

Hello Chris, Gail, Mas and the Proarms Team,

I shot my first IDPA Match the other day and it was great.  Where else can you have four scenario based shooting for $10.00.  IDPA had been on my radar for some time and hearing it on the forums helped to prod me to go.  It really helps to put into practice what one learns at a LFI Class.  I am going to try and start going once a month and I know this will help my training regimen.  

Thank You,

Harry

I think ya'll get four of those a day for FREE, don't ya?

Glad to hear about your match. Was this your first competition, or just first IDPA? What division were you shooting, what pistol, and how'd it go? What one thing surprised you most, that you weren't expecting? What was your favorite thing about the match?

-Kevin

[mcq1111]

Travis,
Let us know how you did, and how you liked it. And, don't hesitate to ask questions. I just SOed a handful of new shooters at Flager IDPA this morning, so I'm used to answering questions... and there is no such thing as a stupid question when it comes to rules, procedures, equipment and safety.
Chris Christian

Chris,
I didn't do so well if you judge me by my time, but I wasn't concerned so much about time so I feel it was successful.
I had a BLAST and I learned a great deal about my strengths and weaknesses and about the benefits of attending IDPA matches.
Thanks for your encouragement and help.
Travis

[Terri]

 Travis No one expects to see a fast time. The main thing was you did not have AD or get DQ. And your Range Officer felt safe running you threw the stages. Glad you had a great time, as we also did at the Jax match.  And most that you see things you can improve on. Keep shooting

[GaryT]

I'm new here, and have shot in exactly one IDPA match over two years ago.  I no longer have the gun (Glock 22) or equipment I had back then, and would like to get back into it.  I currently have a Ruger P345 and a Ruger SR9.  Would either of these be a good choice?  I never cared for the Glock I once used (my agency issued it to me, and I'm no longer there) but I've heard good things about the Smith & Wesson M&P 9.  But, at this point, I have the two Rugers...can I be competitive with them?

[garner230]

I've seen people competitive with most major firearms from reputable manufacturers...It all comes down to practice, practice, practice if you want to get better (or competitive).  I shoot a G-17 Glock because is has the same trigger as my duty weapon, a G-21.  I tried a Beretta 92 FS but that DA/SA trigger seemed to really slow me down.  If I had to shoot a Ruger I would shoot the SR9 because it is (I believe) a striker fired weapon...kinda like a Glock or S&W M&P.  On that note the M&P is making a huge impression in the IDPA matches I've been to...just a thought.

I started out in marksman but didnt get better until I practiced everything...the draw, presentation, trigger squeeze, and most importantly fast magazine changes.  Now I am comfortably in the top at my club matches in Expert. 

[Miggy]

I'm new here, and have shot in exactly one IDPA match over two years ago.  I no longer have the gun (Glock 22) or equipment I had back then, and would like to get back into it.  I currently have a Ruger P345 and a Ruger SR9.  Would either of these be a good choice?  I never cared for the Glock I once used (my agency issued it to me, and I'm no longer there) but I've heard good things about the Smith & Wesson M&P 9.  But, at this point, I have the two Rugers...can I be competitive with them?

The P345 would land you in CDP and it would have a small disadvantage against the 1911 crowd. You can shoot it and probably beat crappy shooters like me, but it is not the "ideal" gun for CDP.
The Ruger SR9, I haven't even handled one but I'd guess you'll land in SSP and competing against Glocks and M&Ps.

[Chris]

GaryT
Both the Rugers you mentioned will work in their respective divisions. As to which?... I wouldn't worry too much about being "competitive" right now. Pick the one you like (and have at least three mags and a holster for)... shoot a couple of matches to get your feet wet and get the feel of things. And then zero in on a competitive gun. In that respect, my vote would go for the SR9. It will be a bit more "even up" in SSP or ESP than the 345 will be in CDP. But... what the heck!... just shoot... have fun... and worry about spending money later. Shoot what you have to start. Then you can join the rest of us in search for the ultimate gun & gear.
Chris Christian

[jmi786]

I was wondering why the dmg rules state that you can have your shotgun shell carrier in front of your holster.
I have tried my shell carrier on my weak side and it is much easier to load from my weak side.
Does anyone know the rationale for this rule?

Thanks,
Joe