IDPA...Getting Started

[VARifleman]

Kydex OWB holster.

If you get an Uncle Mikes you will have to melt the belt loops a little to make it hug the belt without a gap.

Sunray,
IDPA or USPSA are games, but they were developed to hone skills necessary for gunfighting. In the training I've been to, the instructor mentioned that they are good tools for that and we should be involved in them.

 

[OH25shooter]

...how do you generally dress for your matches?

Just wear what you normally wear. It's not like you need a fancy uniform dress. In the heat, I wear shorts, a ball cap, t-shirt, concealment cover vest and rugged trail shoes. My mag retention method is stuffing the mag in my waistband (works great for me), so I don't need those expensive cargo/military pants with twelve pockets. I stay away from camo gear only because I shot USPSA last year and it's not allowed. Remember, shoot what you would carry and wear what you'd normally wear. It's easy. You could always google for YouTube videos of IDPA matches and view what the competitors are using/wearing.

 

[passintime]

Thanks guys, I appreciate the input. As for the Glock 19, it is a fine gun, but me and striker-fired pistols generally don't get along too well.

 

[ny32182]

IDPA is actually what taught me the virtues of striker fired pistols... I was a big Sig fan before, and used them during my first year or so of shooting IDPA. Then I bought a Glock 19. The transition was instant and permanent.

Opinions certainly vary though, and as has been said, the key to getting started is to stop worrying about every little thing and just go. Shooting matches is how you will learn what works for you, not 6 months of arm-chairing it on the internet. Trust me, you'll have a great time no matter what you bring. There will be a wide variety represented.

 

[passintime]

Yeah, I know what you mean. I am more comfortable with having a hammer, stubborn to change. I have a glock, just not my all time favorite to shoot.

 

[Hoser]

I made up an FAQ for our local matches a while back.

http://www.co-ar15.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3717

 

[pistobro206]

I say go for the CZ compact or the CZ PCR.

For a combination of carrying and enjoying the practical pistol game of IDPA.

It's true what others have mentioned, many go towards larger "gaming" type pistols.

I started with a Glock 19 then went to a 34 because I knew it was a game being played.

Since then I've gone to a CZ 75 SP-01. But now I'm inspired to run my P-01.

-Albert

 

[passintime]

I think the CZ compact PCR is the front runner at this point, although a compact in satin nickel might win out. How does the nickel compare to polycoat in regards to toughness. I would imagine nickel would fare better.

Hoser, thanks for the FAQ, I'm going to read that right away.

 

[peteinct]

just start

I second the previous poster who said to just start. The most important thing will be to find a group that is welcoming and most are. There are always some people who go too far to win and are too competitive but don't let them spoil your fun.I think most people worry about looking foolish but that is not an issue. If you say you are new everyone will be helpful.

As for equipment I wear cargo shorts until the fall then cargo pants then a snowmobile suit in the winter so it varies. For a cover garment I use a large denim or canvas shirt. A good belt helps I use a wilderness belt knock off. I use an uncle mikes nylon belt holster. I have a bunch of mags but have never used more than 3 in a shoot. There is a limit of how many shots can be fired in a string.

For a gun use whatever fits your hand and shoot accurately at close range. I thinks the farthest a target can be is 45 feet. I use a stainless 75b for all my shooting so I can be consistent but my P-01 with a 3 3/4 inch barrel also shoots well for me. I think that esp. just staring out there are more things that will improve your scores namely practice then what gun or class you shoot.

IDPA isn't combat shooting training but it will give you practice in drawing, shooting from non standard postions on the move and shooting under pressure. There are more details but just bring a gun holster and ammo then shoot and have a good time.
pete

 

[uh-oh]

I convinced my friend to go with me to an IDPA match, he was reluctant to go previously. I don't know what made him want to go out, but I bought him two more mags (he only had the one that came with his USPc45) and a double mag pouch. He already had a blackhawk serpa and a belt. Those items and his normal clothes and he was good to go for his first match. No big deal. A vest is a good cover garment for IDPA, even if you don't wear one all the time. The point is to get out and have some fun at your own pace.
Bring a camera with you. More than likely one of your new friends will be glad to video your stages.
Watch the vets through each stage. They know how to run the game and you might learn some things from them.
This sounds like a lot to do, but if you show up to the stage with an open mind you'll have a good time.

Eventually your times will drop. Perfect practice makes perfect, and I got a lot of good practice from live fire practical pistol classes and I did informal matches with some friends but it's not the same when you know you're being "graded". The first time I went out for a competition, I don't even remember what really happened, just that the timer beeped and I went into action properly and safely without any thought about it. I had to watch the video of myself to even see what I did the first ten seconds. Subsequent matches slow down, but perceived time is different than elapsed time. Go your own pace and make the hits. You can't miss fast enough to win.

I shoot CDP or ESP, both with SAO guns with hammers- 1911 and a Beretta 92 Steel-I. Short guns are not really at an inherent disadvantage as the ranges to the targets are relatively short.