INTRO TO COMPETITION

The live fire portion includes micro-stages of IDPA and USPSA styles so attendees can get experience in the full range of these disciplines.

What to bring:

• A safe, operational handgun, preferably of a minimum caliber of .38 Special/9mm Parabellum.
• A minimum of three magazines will be necessary for semi-autos and four speedloaders for revolvers. However, we strongly suggest bringing more.
• A Holster & Gun Belt (see below)
• Magazine/speedloader carrier(s) able to hold at least two are needed; carrying four on the belt at a time will be helpful.
• About 100 rounds of ammunition, which may be purchased at GAT Guns.

Like the sanctioning disciplines we cover, we prohibit holsters that cause sweeping or other safety-related issues on the range, such as small-of-back, crossdraw, and shoulder. These types have their uses but in a crowded range we will insist on a belt-mounted strong-side hip holster. 

The holster must cover the trigger guard and trigger.

Nylon pouch-type holsters usually do not do well in heavy range use. Inside-the-waistband holsters are often slow or even difficult to reholster the gun and we recommend range-type holsters for the class.  Proficiency with range holsters easily translates to real-world holsters and makes the initial learning process simpler.
Synthetic (Kydex) ones are the most durable and serviceable. GAT Guns has a variety of holsters that fit this purpose from manufacturers such as Galco and Blackhawk.

A stiff belt is essential, the stiffer the better. Gun belts are usually 1½” or 1¾” wide and resist twisting, which allows the gear to move around uncomfortably.

The inner/outer competition-style belts such as CR Speed are the best in terms of equipment stability and comfort.