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I've never seen or been involved in any sort of gun shooting competition...but a buddy of mine wants to go check it out at Lock & Load in Tyler on Saturday morning.

Any pointers would be great...what do we need, etc.

My goal is just to get better with my gun...not win a trophy. To me, this will be like golf...just trying to get better and shoot a better score as I progress.

The best thing i can suggest for first time competition shooters, is pay attention to what others are doing, ask question, and don't expect to do really good. Have fun and let us know how it goes.

Just focus on not making mistakes. Don't worry about trying to go fast. Go slow and easy and watch and pay attention.

In this heat, make sure you dress for it, drink water, take a towel to keep your hands dry.

And most of all, have fun!!!

Watch
Ask folks
Go slow , listen to the SO, and be safe
Have fun
Repeat

Having 3 mags is helpful

I used to shoot with the Tyler Practical Shooter group at the "range" by the river a few years back. I hear that group moved their shoots to Longview or is it the same group at the L&L range ?

All of the above advice is totally spot on. Especially the taking your time and not rushing. New shooters are always advised to not rush it and greater than 50% of the time they do not heed that advice.

HAVE FUN!! BE SAFE!!

Also, don't worry about how you do on your first couple of stages, you will probably be affected by the jitters your first few stages.

No matter how good or bad your last stage went, don't take it with you to the next stage.

HAVE FUN!! BE SAFE!!

Don't forget that it's a game! There are no prizes or money at any level of IDPA, only personal pride and meeting personal goals.

Don't be timid about asking questions. Most shooters who have been doing it for a while don't ever mind explaining rules, procedures, ect.

HAVE FUN!! BE SAFE!!

When you first arrive, ask if there is a designated area for handling your weapon for holstering up, loading up CCW after the match, ect. Call ahead and find out if they have a new shooter orientation (most/all clubs do) and be there early enough to attend.

And finally............
HAVE FUN!! BE SAFE!!

Edited to correct spelling error(s) I kin speel gud!

What type of gun will you be shooting?

If it's a 1911 type or anything with fewer than 10-round magazine capacity, bring FOUR magazines (three to use in each stage and one to "top off" the gun before beginning the stage).

You'll need good belt holsters for both your gun (strong side) and two spare mags (weak side). IWB or OWB are OK, there are some limitations on OWB but as long as it's a BELT holster and not a drop-leg holster or something you should be fine for a first trip to a club-level match.

How much ammo depends on the match you're shooting and number of stages. IDPA max round count per stage is 18. So if five stages X 18 = just under 100 rounds. I always bring 50 more than I'll "need" just in case there is a prop malfunction or some other problem that forces you to reshoot a stage. On the ammo, don't worry about "power factor" for a first-time club match. Any factory FMJ will be fine.

Concealment may or may not be required by your club on a hot Texas summer day. Have a cover garment just in case. Otherwise, dress COMFORTABLY - it's usually a long day in the sun. Make sure you have a good hat/cap, sunglasses, sunscreen etc. and good comfortable shoes.

Bring plenty of water.

As others have said previously, watch others and LEARN. Attend the "new shooters meeting" and ASK QUESTIONS. Chat up the regulars. Get to know some folks and get free tips and pointers.

Don't worry too much about your performance. Just listen to your SO, concentrate on being safe, move with smooth motions, and get good hits in the 0 and 1 zones.

Most importantly HAVE FUN!

It really is an enjoyable day at most club-level matches.

+1 - Have fun, be safe!!!!!

Your goal should be to be accurate and not make any mistakes. Take it slow, learn the rules and flow of a match. Speed will come with time and experience.

Ryan

Thanks for all of the advise...keep it coming! It is an indoor range, so heat won't be an issue!

I'm shooting an XD9 SC and I'll have a Fobus paddle holster. I bought an extra mag today, so that will give me one mag with 16, one with 13, and one with 10.

I'm a little bit excited!

Blindref757 wrote: I bought an extra mag today, so that will give me one mag with 16, one with 13, and one with 10.

Those mags should work fine, you are not permitted to put more than 10 rounds in the magazine for a stage. Your first mag can have 11, since that will give you 1 in the chamber and 10 in the mag before you start shooting.

to all advice given.

Fully expect your mind to go completely blank when the timer beeps. I think it happens to everyone. I once heard the timer referred to as the "Great Mind Eraser."

T.

Consider a two-mag holder as well. Fobus makes a paddle style one similar to your holster.

As a match Director& Safety Officer:
Safely handling of your firearm, knowing range sfety rules (like 180 rule) and safely handling of your firearm.
Remember, if you do not feel comfortable drawing from the holster, ask to start from low ready.

Bob

Had a lot of fun today! The "regulars" made us new guys feel very comfortable and were very informative. The courses were very challenging to a new guy...but I think I did OK. I was slow and safe, but fairly accurate on most of the shots. The swinger was tough, and the 15 yard shots with a hostage/no shoot was tough with a 3" barrel! I'll definitely be back! Thanks again to all of you guys who provided advice!

Oh, and we forgot to warn you, competitive shooting is VERY addictive!!!!!!

Ryan

I gotta get out and try this sometime.