Interested in trying IDPA

[jayinsat]

I've been thinking about getting into IDPA.

The closest group I can find to me in San Antonio seems like it is Texas Tactical. They hold matches in Cedar Creek and in Austin. I don't know anything or anyone involved so I'm hoping someone here knows some one who can give me advice and maybe even take me by the hand so I don't feel like a stupid newbie If/when I show up.

My only gear now is my Ruger SR9c and I carry in a crossbreed supertuck. I want to shoot for experience and am not concerned about match placement (for now).

What do you think?

[C-dub]

If you have been shooting for a while and are confident in your ability to be safe with your gun,then I would say just go for it. Most of these guys are very helpful and are also really safety conscious. Explain to them that this is your first time and one of the safety officers will probably explain a bit with you one on one. That will only take a minute or two.

Otherwise, if you're still a little unsure, there's no harm in going and watching your first match. I did that and discovered it wasn't all that difficult and I could have entered without having ever seen a match before. However, I'm still glad I did just watch my first match. I probably learned more about the whole thing doing that than if I had entered. I learned about the scoring and was able to ask a bit about the strategy without the stress of actually shooting. I didn't learn everything and still pick up little things at each match I've done since then, but I think it did make the first match I did enter, only one month later, less stressful.

I'm up in Dallas or I would invite you to come along with me to either shoot or watch at my next match.

[A-R]

I shoot IDPA with Texas Tactical. It's a good group. Match director Mike Webb does a good job. There are matches this weekend on Saturday at Cedar Ridge (just east of Bulverde on FM 1863) and Sunday at Austin Rifle Club in Manor. This weekends' matches are combined carbine/ pistol match - you can shoot pistol or rifle (AR/AK types) or both. Plenty of folks will be shooting handgun only.

Your setup is fine. Just be VERY conscious about muzzling yourself while re-holstering (automatic DQ if you do). I often use my similar Comp Tac holster. But I've seen some folks who use their off hand to clear clothing around holster and then muzzle that hand.

Be sure you have at least 3 mags, two mag pouches (or one plus a pocket), and about 100-150 rounds of ammo.

Give it a try, you'll enjoy it.

And unlike c-dub I recommend you "bring your toys" and "play the game" the first time. I also showed up my first time "just to watch" but was kicking myself after first stage because it looked like (and is) so much fun.

[C-dub]

And unlike c-dub I recommend you "bring your toys" and "play the game" the first time. I also showed up my first time "just to watch" but was kicking myself after first stage because it looked like (and is) so much fun.

I do recommend watching first, but have nothing against entering before watching either.

[jayinsat]

Your setup is fine. Just be VERY conscious about muzzling yourself while re-holstering (automatic DQ if you do). I often use my similar Comp Tac holster. But I've seen some folks who use their off hand to clear clothing around holster and then muzzle that hand.

"Muzzleing myself"? Just how and what is that? Maybe I'll watch first.

[C-dub]

Your setup is fine. Just be VERY conscious about muzzling yourself while re-holstering (automatic DQ if you do). I often use my similar Comp Tac holster. But I've seen some folks who use their off hand to clear clothing around holster and then muzzle that hand.

"Muzzleing myself"? Just how and what is that? Maybe I'll watch first.

That is when re-holstering you point the muzzle at your own leg. That is a little more likely when using an IWB holster, but if you're conscious of it and careful it shouldn't be a problem.

[eureka40]

I shoot IDPA with Texas Tactical. It's a good group. Match director Mike Webb does a good job. There are matches this weekend on Saturday at Cedar Ridge (just east of Bulverde on FM 1863) and Sunday at Austin Rifle Club in Manor. This weekends' matches are combined carbine/ pistol match - you can shoot pistol or rifle (AR/AK types) or both. Plenty of folks will be shooting handgun only.

Your setup is fine. Just be VERY conscious about muzzling yourself while re-holstering (automatic DQ if you do). I often use my similar Comp Tac holster. But I've seen some folks who use their off hand to clear clothing around holster and then muzzle that hand.

Be sure you have at least 3 mags, two mag pouches (or one plus a pocket), and about 100-150 rounds of ammo.

Give it a try, you'll enjoy it.

And unlike c-dub I recommend you "bring your toys" and "play the game" the first time. I also showed up my first time "just to watch" but was kicking myself after first stage because it looked like (and is) so much fun.

Just go slow at first. Don't worry about time. You'll be fine and will leave with a great deal of confidence. The other shooters and RSOs will help you out.

[A-R]

Your setup is fine. Just be VERY conscious about muzzling yourself while re-holstering (automatic DQ if you do). I often use my similar Comp Tac holster. But I've seen some folks who use their off hand to clear clothing around holster and then muzzle that hand.

"Muzzleing myself"? Just how and what is that? Maybe I'll watch first.

IDPA is a great way to learn these things. Don't worry, show up a little early and they do a good "new shooters" briefing before the mat h to explain rules and terminology. And everyone is very friendly and eager to help new shooters get the hang of it, have fun, be safe, and improve.

[AustinBoy]

I have done a tactical carbine and an IDPA with Texas Tactical in Austin.

It is about the most fun you can have!!

Mike Webb and the RSOs are a great group of people. They will explain all the rules and keep you and everyone else safe.

When you sign up for a group, put NEW next to your name and they will put you last. This means you get to watch the entire group (5-9 people) run the course before you do. After watching about 4 people go, you will be so ready to shoot you cant wait!

I am with A-R, go to watch but take all your stuff with you because you will probably want to shoot that day!

I cant tell you how informative and fun it is!!

Do it!!!

AB

PM me if want to chat on the phone about it real quick.

[jayinsat]

Thanks everyone.

Me and my best friend are going to dive in. Not sure when but we will go for it. Thanks for all the advice and encouragement.