I originally showed up to the range to be a spectator but the fellas there said that if I had my gear with me that I could participate. Being a spectator is boring apparently.
So I just happened to have my XD 4" Service pistol in the car with a holster and a 2 mag pouch.
They explained the safety rules and the some of the basic IDPA rules. There were other new shooters too so it was a bit unusual. I think it was 7 regular shooters and 4 new shooters including myself.
We only did 4 stages although they had 6 setup. At the first stage, I was the 3rd to last shooter and just as the guy before me got with his stage, a downpour started that lasted a good 30 minutes. Which is why we only did the 4 stages.
First impressions:
I need to practice a lot more with my 4" XD. I don't fire that one regularly as I've been focusing on my carry pistol (XDs 45).
I got emailed the scores this morning, and in my division, SSP-UNC (don't ask me what that means), I was dead last. I'm naturally competitive so I couldn't help thinking of how much I SUCKED BUT I do always go back and think, that was fun!
The scenarios presented in the stages are actually kinda interesting. Sort of real world sight pictures that one might encounter although very unlikely I suppose. The downpour turned the stages into a slippery muddy mess which increased the difficulty. I did NOT want to get my mags dirty so between mag changes I took my time to ensure that I caught the mag. My focus was making sure I didn't get kicked off for a safety violation.
The folks were generally very happy folks and very nice with a relaxed yet, safe attitude.
They are having an competition match this Saturday. I may or may not go.
First IDPA Shoot last night...
1Everything is bigger in Texas
Texas LTC Holder
Postal Match Winner: 2017 Q1 Rimfire, 7 Yd Division, Glass, S&W Victory 22