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Elements of IDPA

To be a good competitive shooter, as well as a good self-defense shooter, a person must master many separate shooting elements.  An IDPA stage consists of a number of these separate elements linked together. An element is any separate mechanic and includes everything from how to draw a firearm to how to shoot a swinging target.

We have all shot stages where we did really well until a certain point -- and then we messed up.  This resulted in a poor score on the stage.  How many times have you heard the following: “I shot all the static targets well, but then there was this swinger!” or “I thought I did well until I looked up and saw a DOWN 3!” or “I can’t believe I missed that shot!”  The truth is that we probably encountered a particular element at which we are not good.  We may not even be aware that shooting is actually made up of so many small separate elements.  (Did you know that the way you draw while standing still is different than the way you draw while turning or the way you draw while shooting on the move?)

This class will attempt to break down IDPA into its most basic elements and teach them.  Drills will then be used to practice the separate elements followed by shooting actual IDPA stages that will incorporate the elements emphasized in that night’s class.

This three hour class will begin with one to one and a half hours of instruction and drills.  The remaining class time will consist of shooting actual IDPA scenarios with critique by the instructors.  The participant will get a chance to shoot each stage more than once and to experience real “match pressure.”

Each class will be different and will concentrate on learning one or two elements of IDPA.  These classes will include elements such as:

VIDEO:  Each participant will have the option of having his stages videoed and made available for download.  We have found this to be an invaluable tool for critiquing your performance and improving your overall match score.

Prerequisite:  In order to attend these sessions a shooter must have completed Steps 1 and 2.

Required Equipment:  Please bring the following with you: 

  • Handgun with a minimum of 3 magazines (or speed-loaders for revolvers)

  • Practical-concealable hip holster (no small-of-back, fanny pack, or shoulder rigs)
    The holster must permit re-holstering with the use of ONLY one hand!

  • No soft nylon holsters are permitted

  • Straight-drop holsters (NO cant) are best

  • Belt-mounted magazine pouch(s) for two magazines or 2 speed-loaders

  • At least five snap-caps or dummy rounds

  • Vest, jacket or other open-front garment that will conceal your handgun

  • VERY sturdy shooting belt)

  • Eye and ear protection

  • Note taking material

  • Rugged, but comfortable attire and footwear

  • 200 rounds of ammunition

 

Time:  6:00 PM to 9:00 PM 

Reservations / Cancellation Policy:  To guarantee a spot in the class send us an e-mail (Shoot2Live@net) with your commitment to attend.  NOTE: We take you at your word.  We promise to be there.  We expect the same from you.  A reservation guarantees you space and it is therefore a promise to pay the class fee even if your plans change.

No Reservation Walk-ins:  We will accept shooters without reservations as long as there is room.

Late Arrivals:  The door to the range is locked at 6:00 PM.  If you arrive late, please call 919-741-8808 for entrance.  Due to range noise we will open the door as soon as possible after we “feel the vibration" of your call.

Class Fee:  $55.00 (For video of your scenarios please add $10. The videos will be yours to download.)

Duration:  Three hours

Ammunition:  200 rounds

Revised: 6/13/11