[4arrows]

Sorry if this is in the wrong spot, but didnt see anywhere esle for it to go. I checken on the IDPA website, and there is a club in Terrell TX pretty near me. I was going to go to a shoot and see what all the fuss is about. I have a couple of questions though and was wondering if yall could catch me up. I may not compete this time out, but would like to know for future reference.

1) with my M&P40, what class would I be in?

2) how many mags would i need to compete?

3) Can i carry a loaded, concealed firearm to the match if i am not competing?

4) How many rounds will i need, and what rounds should i use because i know that the power factor is an issue between classes.

5) If not competing, is it acceptable to bring my 2 small sons to the match?

6) Do i "need" a M&P9 to be a better competitor ( i am looking for a better excuse than "i want it")

Thanks for the info guys, i think that this would be alot of fun, and am looking forward to it. I have taken some Tactical Handgun Classes, and this seems like not only the next logical step in defensive training, but a way to meet some like minded people as well.



4>---->

 

[ArnisAndyz]

1) SSP - same catagory as Glocks, DA/SA sigs, berettas, etc. (or ESP - XD, BHP, 1911 9mms...depending on if you have any modifcations like grip stippling done to the gun)



2) 3 mags - one to load and make ready, 2 in carriers. Might want an extra unloaded mag to clear your gun if you have the mag disconnect.



3) Depends on the range - my range is a cold range no loaded firearms on the action range unless your on the line.



4) Probably around 100 bring extra!



5) Depends on the range - most ranges encourage young shooters as long as they are well supervised and follow proper range etiquette.



6) You can do fine with a 40S&W but if your shooting factory you'll be faster with the 9mm. If you reload, a 125PF in a 40 can feels as soft as a 9mm 125 PF load. Invest in reloading, it will pay you back in more ways than one.



Be careful its addictive!

 

[Jester]

Agree with above, and adding in that most clubs are cool, I wouldn't just go and watch, I'd bring what equipment you have and if you feel like shooting, do it.



Tell them its your first and they will be really cool with you.



I always bring about 200 rounds or 300 if its a nice day in case I want to shoot the range again. 100 rounds is about the norm around here for a full shoot.





I'll be shooting my 40 every time. I also shoot major, I keep my reloads the same as my CCW loads.

 

[Jhp147]

On #5, be sure and bring proper eye and ear protection for the youngsters.

On #6, a 9mm in SSP might be cheaper to shoot, unless you handload. I haven't priced .40 in a while, though. This is strictly my opinion and observation of matches I attend: I see more "speedsters" and "gamers" (in the IDPA sense) in ESP, such as 9mm 1911s with 125.01 PF loads :wink: , so a 9mm would put you back with more average joes in my IDPA bunch.

 

[ArnisAndyz]

just to note... there isn't a "major" or "minor" in IDPA like in IPSC, just a minimum power floor for the division you want to shoot in. SSP and ESP is 125,000 CDP is 165,000. Take the weight of the bullet x the velocity.



Gamers who want to be competitive will load to the minimum floor, people who want to practice self-defense skills will load what they carry. Same thing with technique, if you take your time and use cover properly your going to place lower than the the guy who pushes the rules to the limit. I go back and forth, I love the training, but sometimes I want to be competitive.

 

[superstar]

If not competing, is it acceptable to bring my 2 small sons to the match?



I bring my daughter to the local club shoots. She is very welcome with the other shooters. Check her out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wF2lCdVsrs

 

[4arrows]

What pistol is she using there? She looks like a shooter. I have taken my 5 year ols and 4 year old to our deer lease to shoot and dove hunt, and they are very well behaived. If i took them though, i wouldnt be able to shoot, unless someone else went as well.

 

[superstar]

The pistol is a Ruger MK2, its heavy with almost no recoil, perfect for the new shooters. The red dot sight keeps them hitting the target which builds confidence.

You will be suprised at how many people would gladly watch the kids for you while you shoot.