New Event for Me

I "competed" in my first Practical Pistol event this weekend. I say "competed" because I seriously doubt the top 40-50 shooters have anything to fear from me beating their scores. There were 70+ shooters from what I understand.

The match took place at a club about 30-35 minutes from my house, so the drive wasn't too back for an early weekend morning. The match was modeled on IPSC rules, which as I understand them, are a bit more lax than IDPA rules and regs. I arrived early and had plenty of time to listen and learn. After sign-up, group assignment, a new-shooter orientation and full gear and ammo load-up, we were off to our first stage.

I immediately noticed that I was nearly the most "green" competitor in terms gear - gun, holster, bag, clothing, etc. I had no logos, no tricked out gun w/ over sized scope, cleats, hi-tech glasses, head-mounted camera, etc. I do wish I'd had the bag, more appropriate clothing and possibly the cleats. I was by no means the youngest shooter. Two kids in the group ahead of us appeared to be 12 and 14/15. They seemed to do pretty well for their age, but I have no idea how long they've been shooting. One needed to step down from the caliber and sized gun he was shooting. Just my opinion.

On the advice of my safety trainer, I asked the group's scorer to move my sheets farther down in the group so I'd have some time to watch and learn. (I'd be regretting this on the last stage of the day, when I just wanted to shower and eat a meal.)

I noticed quickly that the strategy you choose to take to engage the targets can make all the difference and taking the route others take isn't wise if you don't' have the skills.

The first scenario / stage we had to conquer, required the shooter to start w/ palms on a wall, 4'W X 8' H, then upon buzzer engage 3 targets on either side of wall w/ double-taps and 2 steel poppers w/ one mandatory reload. I showed my inexperience and nervousness by yanking my magazine holder off my waist (new equipment that held the mags pretty tight and was on my jeans, not belt) then nearly broke the 180 degree rule during my reload as I had to use two hands. Left hand on the new mag, right hand, with pistol, grabbed the mag pouch, and muzzle points left, nearly 180 degrees. Not a good move to make if you want to stick around, but I made it through - probably because I was a newbie and the RO (Range Offiers) cut me a break.

So 4+ hours later, 5 stages, 120 rounds, 3-4 mag jams (all my fault for not seating them fully), 2 granola bars, a sense of accomplishment and the realization that my active shooting skills are somewhat lacking, I was glad to be heading home.

There were some pretty good folks involved and with all levels of skill, competitiveness, reasons for being there, etc. I was invited to go to another competition in the area this next weekend, but think I'll take some time to practice. I had previously scheduled another match in Oct. that follows the IDPA rules, so I think I have some rules studying to do to get ready for that one.

All in all, it was a good time. The competition aspect was refreshing and reminded me of shooting archery back in college. I'll be back at in the near future.