This topic came up in a thread over in GD, but I thought it would be better over here. For a new person wanting to get started in IDPA, what in your opinion should they know in advance and have for gear?
First, for the new person you really, really need to read this.
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IMO, IDPA is fun. So be prepared to have some! You meet some great people who are interested in the same things you are: guns & self-defense. Its also a great place to try out that holster you bought 6 months ago and haven't really 'used' yet. Or maybe that magazine carrier you thought you might want to buy... well, now you really do need it afterall. Just about any "serviceable" pistol will do the job, (See rules & regs for specifics) as long as you have a strong-side holster for it. No cross-draws, thigh-rigs or shoulder-rigs allowed. The more a holster is geared towards daily, concealed carry wear the better.
The group that I shoot with has matches every month of the year except January and maybe December next year. Rain or snow, hot or cold doesn't matter. But be prepared because there's no whining allowed!
Of course, in the end its a game. Some rules may be frustrating. I know there is another thread here talking about changes people would like to see. So be it. Through the open discussion, maybe they'll be improved upon...? Never-the-less, its a game that can help you practice your skills and identify areas where you need more work. It can also give you ideas of where to take your own personal training.
Any other thoughts?
First, for the new person you really, really need to read this.
----------------
IMO, IDPA is fun. So be prepared to have some! You meet some great people who are interested in the same things you are: guns & self-defense. Its also a great place to try out that holster you bought 6 months ago and haven't really 'used' yet. Or maybe that magazine carrier you thought you might want to buy... well, now you really do need it afterall. Just about any "serviceable" pistol will do the job, (See rules & regs for specifics) as long as you have a strong-side holster for it. No cross-draws, thigh-rigs or shoulder-rigs allowed. The more a holster is geared towards daily, concealed carry wear the better.
The group that I shoot with has matches every month of the year except January and maybe December next year. Rain or snow, hot or cold doesn't matter. But be prepared because there's no whining allowed!
Of course, in the end its a game. Some rules may be frustrating. I know there is another thread here talking about changes people would like to see. So be it. Through the open discussion, maybe they'll be improved upon...? Never-the-less, its a game that can help you practice your skills and identify areas where you need more work. It can also give you ideas of where to take your own personal training.
Any other thoughts?