TexasCHLforum.com

While I'm not new to guns, I've never even been to one of these matches. I 'plink', I use 'targets', and I go to a range about once or twice a month.

I'm not a 'bad' shot, neither am I a 'great' shot. I scored >220 on my CHL renewal with a rented .40 that I'd never shot before.

I, acutally had no idea that IDPA even existed until I got back into guns and radios ealier this year. (I've had my head stuck in religious books for the past few years. -- Still do for that matter.)

So, for us 'beginners' in this type of competition. How? How do you get started?

Invite a few of us out for a 'first time' shoot at reduced rates or range fees only.

Don't chastise the weaker new shot, they should improve with practice. I know if I'd practice more, I'd become a much better shot.

Send follow-up correspondance, ask how they're doing. Invite them back. Call them up & just chat on the phone for a while... don't be a stranger.

Go to their range and 'pop off' a couple... become a friend.

Your club will grow.

I know, I took over a ham radio club in the 90's that had at one time had over 200 members and had dropped to around 20. I held that job for eight years, and got the club back to over 200 again. Then, eight years ago I 'burnt-out' and left the club. Now that club only has about 20 members again.

Ok, so it's time for me to start over there--------- again!

Hope these suggestions help.

Russ