What is IDPA?

IDPA competitions are designed to use practical equipment in 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.

 Prior to the formation of IDPA, there was no place to compete and hone one's skill with equipment designed for and suitable for self-defense. IDPA offers an exciting forum for practical shooters in which truly practical equipment, techniques and courses of fire are mandated. Prior to IDPA, there was no place at all to compete with common service pistols. When you come to an IDPA match, you can not only use your duty/CCW equipment, you can be completely competitive with it! Some other shooting sports have become equipment "races"; IDPA is not. If you're interested in using truly practical pistols to solve challenging and exciting defensive shooting problems, then IDPA is the sport for you.

IDPA 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.