want to shoot idpa need your help

[338winmag]

OK i just bought a new m&p 9 full size and want to shoot idpa with it can any one help me out as to where to shoot and a good holster for this and what Else i will need like the number of mags needed to compete thanks Matt

[RONNIE77]

Matt,
I just started IDPA myself and have shot the last three matchs already. I am addicted.
The M&P 9 is a great gun for IDPA, I have one myself that I shoot in the matchs and it has not let me down yet. As far as mags are concerned, you can take as many as you want to the matchs, but you can only carry three during your shoots.

Your first match you will be shooting unclassified, but certain matchs require a classification (find out about getting classified at one of the matchs) Thats what I did.
Rounds: Between 120 to 150 depending on the courses of fire (be safe and take more)
Three mags, 11 in one and 10 in the other two. (unless otherwise directed)
Holster - I have a fobus paddle holster ($30), but am looking to get the Bladetec stingray ($62) You will aslo need a double mag pouch.
There are specifications concerning you holster and mag pouch (check online rule book for details)
Vest or open shirt (must shoot from concealment during matchs and it must cover you firearm completley)
Of course, eyes and ear protection. And wear a hat (keeps you from squinting and protects from ejected casings)
You already have a great gun, and that is basically it.
There are matchs pretty much every weekend, it just depends on how far you are willing to drive.

To join: and you should, its a blast (check rule book online for details, they send you one when you join)
http://www.idpa.com/
For schedules and scores:
http://www.nepaidpascores.net/

I hope this was helpful, and I hope you have a blast.
Maybe we will run into each other. Good luck.

Ron,

[338winmag]

thanks for all the info i will drive up to an hour and a half if you know of any matches in this area thanks Matt

[RONNIE77]

I think I was just up your area this past weekend, not sure though. (blue ridge cherry valley rod and gun club) In Sciota, PA
Check this site, and you will see all of the matchs going on, but I am not sure where they are in distance from you.
http://www.nepaidpascores.net/

[LowFlyer]

I'm just getting info gathered up myself. This place is close to you. West Shore Sportsmen and has some IDPA. This has a listing in Lewisberry http://www.nepaidpascores.net/ that Ron already posted and references back to West Shore Sportsmen.

[IV_Warrior]

You could probably get to Lewistown Pistol Club in an hour and a half. We generally run out matches twice, once in the morning (approx. 9am start) and again in the afternoon. Afternoon start time depends on how close to 9am we got started in the morning and how long it took to get through the match and a lunch break. It's $10 for your first round and $5 to shoot again if you do both morning and afternoon. If you're going to do both, I'd bring 300 rounds, just to be safe. You'll likely go home with ammo. Our next match is July 27th.

[Lycanthrope]

You will shoot with 10 round mags or only 10 rounds loaded in the mag.

You need to make sure your holster meets criteria...most paddles do. Many belt holsters are illegal. See the IDPA manual for holster rules.

http://www.idpa.com/Documents/IDPARuleBook2005.pdf

LycanSOthrope

[lprgcFrank]

here's a good primer for IDPA

It would also be a good idea for new shooters to check out the
Easton Tactical Ops New IDPA Shooter web site at
http://www.eastontacticalops.com/manual.html

[reichebrown]

this one too:

http://www.nepaidpascores.net/misc/W...A_Shooting.pdf

[338winmag]

thanks to every one who has shared info so far it is greatly appreciated