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Any pearls of wisdom to be known for an IDPA newbie? I'll be using my XD .40 w/ an iTac OWB holster. I'm going with the mindset of not trying to get the fastest times but just making sure I hit all the targets. This is the first time I'll be shooting on the move instead of from a static firing line.

atxgun wrote: I'm going with the mindset of not trying to get the fastest times but just making sure I hit all the targets.

That's probably a good start.

Good luck ,have fun , and may the force be with you.

couple of suggestions:

Go to the IDPA website and study the rules. Esp about use of cover, tactical order, tactical sequence, vickers and limited vickers scoring, No-shoots, weak hand and strong hand shooting.

This will get you on the same page so you will know the rules.

Remember to keep your gun pointed in the berm at all times (esp when moving and reloading....not up or down but straight ahead into the berm) and keep your finger OUT of the trigger guard when moving or reloading or anyother time you are not actually shooting a target.

THEN HAVE FUN. Let the guys know that you are new to the sport and this is your first time and you will find out that IDPA clubs will open their arms to have you join them (as long as you are a safe shooter and listen to instructions)

Garry N.

Have fun !

Safety is always a point with new shooters--ok all of us, too ":-). Watch your gun handling-- muzzle control when handling, reloading and especially when moving. As Gary said-- always point into the berm straight ahead; not up, down or to the side. Keep your finger off the trigger and away from the guard. Ask the folks at the range where their safe area is. Don't handle your firearm except in that area or when you are on the line, following the SO's instructions.

Shoot to hit. Don't worry about the speed--that will come with time and practice. Have fun.

Review the IDPA rule book. Ask any questions about somthing that is said or about how a stage is being run. Another tip is when you come to the line is to let the SO know you are a new shooter. He/she will watch a bit closer and offer their comments.

Equipment-- at least 3-4 magazines. Otherwise you'll spend all your extra time hunched over your bag loading and miss all the fun. Consider a stiff (kydex or leather) holster. The cloth ones tend to be dificut to reholster with, IMO. Check that the holster you choose conforms to IDPA rules. A good stiff gun belt makes a world of difference, also.

and... have fun !

One more. Do not be the first to shoot. Be in the middle of the pack or at the end of the line. This way you will observe seasoned competitors shoot first and you will learn a trick or two.

Have fun be safe.

I've only shot 3 matches myself but the best thing I heard that helped me was to remind myself to focus on the front sight every time it was my turn to shoot. It's amazing what adrenaline can make you forget.

Have a good time and be safe.

T.

We call that that little buzzer that goes off next your ear a "Mind Eraser" It wont take you long to know wht I am talking about.
#1 BE SAFE
#2 your NOT going to win so refer back to rule #1
#3 Go SLOOOWWW because.....refer back to rule #2 then #1

When it comes to the Load N Make Ready and Unload and Show Clear commands from the SO (safety officer)....let him instruct you on everything.....

If you are finished unload N Show clear...you drop mag, pull slide back and hold it for the SO to see the chamber,,,,then he should tell you,
I see clear, slide forward........then you let the slide go forward
SO should say Trigger or Hammer, then you pull trigger
SO should say Holster...then without covering yourself you holster.

i say it like this only because so many new shooter try to jump the gun and start doing other things like picking up a mag before the gun is holstered.

Welcome to the sport and have lots of fun

Thanks guys. My biggest concern was getting disqualified early on for some procedural error. I'll be sure to keep my focus on all these things.

Oh yes and I'm concerned about weak hand shooting. I had never even tried that before so was trying it out at the range earlier this week. I was pretty horrible. I'm planning to go through at least 500 rounds w/ my .22 tomorrow it start trying to get that under control and then get the piece I'll be competing with going.

Looks like you've got a good start. Really don't have much to add to the excellent posts above except listen closely to your SOs. Also, if they have a "new shooters orientation" before the match, it should contain all the info you need to have a safe and fun match.

Where are you going to be shooting ?

Cheers!!

williamkevin wrote: Where are you going to be shooting ?

Austin Rifle Club

Just to post a follow up, I went last weekend and had a great time. Looking at the final scores I did pretty much as expected and finished dead last on every stage. In my own defense it was horrible weather and most out there were the RSOs :) At anyrate I hope to finish at least next to last on one stage next time.

Hey, you finished and you must have done so safely as breaking a safety protocol is what will get you disqualified. Way-to-go!

atxgun wrote:Just to post a follow up, I went last weekend and had a great time. Looking at the final scores I did pretty much as expected and finished dead last on every stage. In my own defense it was horrible weather and most out there were the RSOs :) At anyrate I hope to finish at least next to last on one stage next time.

You likely gained knowlege beyond what a majority of gun owners will ever know.....in just one match! You will never pass me in the number of procedurals in an IDPA match! Have fun and stay safe.

Jason