Posted: 7/21/2014 3:21:02 PM EDT
| I am looking into getting the sport but I torn at which direction would be the more fun route. I hear stories of IPDA being too rule driven now, and that 3 Gun has a higher entry cost. I have all the weapons I need but a shotgun, I have never been a huge shotgun guy except to qualify while active duty. Any advice or stories would be appreciated! |
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IDPA will be cheaper ammo wise, stages are limited to 18 required rounds (you can shoot more if needed). So a 5 stage match will need 100-110 rounds. 3 Gun will be more depending on the stages.
The safety rule violations that will get you DQed in IDPA will get you DQed in 3gun, plus a few extra rules re. grounding unloaded guns during the stage. I would say try IDPA for a few matches, and if it's not fun enough, ramp up to 3 Gun. Gringop |
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You could try both IDPA and 3gun, I wouldn't discount USPSA. IDPA is pretty fun, it has more of the tactical appeal as there are times when there are scenarios that cause you to slice the pie, etc. USPSA is a run and gun sport. 3 gun is really a blend of whatever your local MD likes or is pressured into setting up. 3 gun can be all about shotgun loading at one match, the next might be a bunch of hoser stages, and the last presenting lots of tight shots and no shoots everywhere.
Try them all, I have and I like them for what they are. I started in IDPA, then after a few purchases I went to USPSA and 3 gun. IDPA is almost like a gateway drug. Oh, for your shotgun, dual or quad loading is where it's going to now. Takes much less practice to get fast and not fumble shells, I suggest the TACCOM caddies as they are a little cheaper and mine have held up very well. |
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Get out and shoot something! I don't believe ANY of them have a "tactical" component to them, including IDPA. BUT, you will have to make accurate hits, fast, under pressure in all - which is the same thing you have to do in a gunfight. I started shooting IDPA, and then moved to USPSA and personally had a lot more fun. I also shoot 3-gun and run matches at Winnequah GC in Lodi. You can jump right into three gun, but it's expensive and there is a bit more of a learning curve and some safety issues because you are abandoning firearms, switching guns, etc. I always like it when new 3 gun shooters shoot a pistol match or two before showing up at 3 gun, so they are at least familiar with range commands, etc. Either way, get out and do something. I didn't know how much my training was lacking until I started shooting competitively. It is a entirely new realm and I think it should be part of everyone's training regimen. |