TexasCHLforum.com

The 2 most popular "action" pistol types of competition are IDPA, and USPSA. There are many, many, clubs in Texas that host these matches, and I'd recommend doing an online search and finding a club near you, and going to simply watch a match.

Search the following:

IDPA - International Defensive Pistol Association

USPSA - United States Practical Shooting Association

Check out some of their vids on you tube as well to get a feel for the stages.

IDPA tries to incorporate some aspects of defensive shooting into their stages, and some stages are very specific about how they are to be engaged. IDPA is generally less equipment intensive, and has lower max round count per stage than does USPSA.


USPSA tends to be more equipment intensive, has higher round count stages, and tends to let the shooter determine how they will shoot each stage within the limits of the stage description.

Both are fun, and aid in developing accuracy, speed, and safe firearm handling skills.

Don't worry about being competitive at first, just show up, be safe, shoot the best you can, and have fun.