IDPA

IDPA as a sport is quite simply the use of practical equipment including full charge service ammunition to solve simulated “real world” self-defense scenarios. Shooters competing in IDPA events are required to use practical handguns and holsters that are truly suitable for self-defense use. No “competition only” equipment is permitted in IDPA matches since the main goal is to test the skill and ability of an individual, not his equipment or gamesmanship.

Courses fall into two categories:

Self-defense scenarios or Standard exercises. The self-defense scenarios are simulations of actual or possible “real world” confrontations. These scenarios typically require shots from 3 - 20 yards and often require the shooter to change firing points and shoot from awkward positions. Standard exercises do not attempt to simulate a potential threat situation but are designed to test specific shooting and gun handling skills. IDPA matches offer diversity and truly test both accuracy and speed. Physical condition has very little to do with your performance in an IDPA match.

What type of equipment do I need to compete in IDPA matches?

IDPA matches typically require the use of a service type pistol or revolver of 9mm/.38 special or lager caliber. If your handgun is suitable for self-defense use, it will probably be competitive for IDPA matches. Practical concealed carry type holsters are stipulated for IDPA use. A common service pistol or revolver such as a Beretta 92F, Glock 17/22, Sig 226, Colt 1911A1, S&W 686 or Ruger GP-100 carried in a common pancake style holster is all that is needed to be competitive in IDPA matches.

PPC

PPC is the acronym for Practical Pistol Course. This shooting discipline evolved from police firearm training into a sport enjoyed by civilians as well as law enforcement officers. PPC shooting involves shooting at targets from different distances, under different time constraints and from a variety of shooting positions. In PPC, the shooter does not walk or run with the firearm. Typically, Smith & Wesson revolvers are used for PPC shooting. The focus is on accuracy within a defined time allotment.

The distance the shooter is from the target varies from 7 to 15 to 25 to 50 metres.

The time constraints the shooter faces in firing on the target vary from 12 rounds fired in 20 seconds to 24 rounds fired in two minutes and 45 seconds.

The various shooting positions are; kneeling, prone, point shoulder, shooting around a barricade (strong hand & weak hand) and sitting.

Course of Fire

A full "1500" PPC course of fire involves firing a total of 150 rounds of ammunition on 6 "B27" (paper or cardboard body silhouette) targets. The course of fire involves six matches outlined as follows;

Match 1

12 rounds in 20 seconds Point Shoulder From 7 metres

12 rounds in 20 seconds Point Shoulder From 15 metres

Match 2

18 rounds in 90 seconds Kneeling, left barricade, right barricade From 25 metres

Match 3

24 rounds in 2 minutes,45 seconds Sitting, prone, left barricade, right barricade from 50 metres

Match 4

12 rounds in 30 seconds point shoulder from 25 metres

repeat

Match 5A

12 rounds in 20 seconds Point shoulder from 7 metre line

18 rounds in 90 seconds kneeling, left barricade, right barricade from 25 metres

Match 5B

24 rounds in 2 minutes, 45 seconds sitting, prone, left barricade, right barricade from 25 metres

6 rounds in 12 seconds point shoulder from 25 metres

Minimum equipment required:

a handgun (usually a six-shot revolver of .32 caliber or above, but semi-auto's (of .35 caliber or above) are fine too)
a holster and sturdy belt (must be "strong-side", no crossdraw or shoulder rigs)
3 speedloaders or 4 magazines (3 is a bare minimum, the more the better)
a loading tray (unless you have 10 speedloaders)
a bucket or tray for your reloads and empty cartridge cases
belt mounted speedloader holders for at least three loaders
eye and ear protection
At least 60 rounds of ammunition, preferably light to mid-load wadcutters. Full metal jacket and magnum loads are specifically disallowed at most matches.