IPSC or IDPA

**Castos** · 19-12-2014, 07:39

My plan is to join one of these organisations, but do not know which one. One has to do with practical pistol while the other is for defensive. During my military career I have done a lot of combat (urban) type shooting. I have also taken part in Bisley shooting.

Please guide me in the right direction with positive points about each.

Thanks in advance.

**Skaaphaas** · 19-12-2014, 07:47

Easiest would be to visit the Eeufees range when there are shoots and having a look at what you like.

**BigT** · 19-12-2014, 07:53

Both are games. Don't expect any reality in either. Both get you working the gun which is good. I shoot both but if I were to pick only one it would be IPSC.

**Dukren** · 19-12-2014, 07:54

I would suggest you have a look at both rule sets and some vids on YouTube. It will give you an idea of what both is about.

IDPA is built around the idea of practical and defensive scenarios using equipment that is practical for EDC. Well that is the idea...
Stages are shorter with lower round counts. You have to use cover and wear concealment.

IPSC is more competition orientated and the equipment reflects that e.g. speed rigs and race guns.
Stages are longer with higher round counts and is more about speed and being technically proficient with your gun.

Both will give you that little bit of shooting under pressure and trigger time on your gun.

As you are in PTA go to a clubshoot of both and see what you like. I would recommend a visit to Premier as you can often see both on one day.

**vo1ty** · 19-12-2014, 08:31

IDPA expensive but affordable
IPSC expensive Point

If I am not mistaken

**BigT** · 19-12-2014, 08:34

Originally Posted by vo1ty

IDPA expensive but affordable
IPSC expensive Point

If I am not mistaken

The only real difference in cost between eg Production and SSP is match round count. Seeing as that should only be a small percentage of your total round count it's pretty much irrelevant.

**Kayback** · 19-12-2014, 08:50

I like IDPA so would go that route again. What do they shoot at ranges near you? Neither one has any real advantage over the other in terms of "real world" application of shooting skill.

IMHO is is like the difference between Formula 1 and A1 racing. Both are very close with only marginal rule differences. IDPA tends to shoot less bullets per stage ao if you are buying factory ammo it will be cheaper if you are reloading it is marginal.

**Psychosis** · 19-12-2014, 08:55

Originally Posted by vo1ty

IDPA expensive but affordable
IPSC expensive Point

If I am not mistaken

You are mistaken.

**pdh** · 19-12-2014, 09:05

Not this again

**Castos** · 19-12-2014, 09:13

Thanks for the advice. Can you use a standard pistol for IPSC? The reason why I am asking is that i would like to join asap as I will be out of country for 8 - 12 weeks and then i want to go and shoot. I will be doing my own reloading and will later on purchase a 2nd pistol to do the shooting at either organisation.