3913 in IDPA

[JamesArthur60]

Since I carry the 3913 I was wondering if anyone has shot it in IDPA. Since it only has the 8 round magazine, wouldn't that be a disadvantage? Or, would you shoot to slide lock everytime, dump it and reload fresh?

[OKFC05]

One neat thing about IDPA is virtually any carry gun fits into one division or another. While there are favorite models in each division in sanctioned matches, it does not matter much at club matches.

Just take whatever you have and go try it. Your inexperience will be the greatest handicap at first.
IDPA is more fun than you can imagine, and a constant challenge to improve.

[MATTHIAS]

The courses of fire are limited to a maximum of 18 rounds,so practically You need to reload twice,compared with 1 reload using a different pistol in SSP,you are in a little disadvantage...but try it and if possible try another gun and check your times..regards.

IPSC is even more impractical than IDPA, but I shoot that with my 3913 because what might happen on the street is far more important than taking home the blue ribbon. Keep on using your carry pistol - reload when the 'tactical' requirements simulated by the scenario being 'gamed' dictate. You will probably wind up shooting to slide lock sometimes and at other times will do a 'tactical' reload. Even if placing well proves difficult, you will certainly benefit from the greater proficiency at running the gun you derive from participating.

When you finally win a match, you will be able to enjoy the satisfaction of being a 'reverse equipment snob'...

[JamesArthur60]

I probably should have stated that I'm not new to IDPA. Currently I use my XD9 Tactical (it's my upgraded game gun) and have used a SigSauer 9mm in SSP. My concern is not where I place (who cares at my "senior" age) rather is the 8 round magazine impractical regarding reloads. I've always heard the stages were designed for a minimum 10 rounds and the low round count mag guns don't do well. Too many reloads required.

[BILL]

JamesArthur, Your 3913 will be OK to use. The CDP guys are limited to 8 rounds per mag and some of us are silly enough to use 6-shooters.

You should have at least 3 mags.

You should check out these guys if you don't already shoot there. They're good people. CODPL: Home

Bill N.

[OKFC05]

I've always heard the stages were designed for a minimum 10 rounds and the low round count mag guns don't do well. Too many reloads required.

USPSA stages are supposed to be designed for 8 rounds max at each firing point, max 32 rounds per stage. USPSA Single-stack uses 8-round 1911 .45, revolvers can only fire 6.

IDPA stages are supposed to be "revolver neutral" for a 6-round revolver, with a maximum of 18 rounds per stage.

I don't know where the idea of "designed for 10 rounds" came from, but if anyone is doing that, it's just wrong.

I'm an IDPA Match Director, and usually have several people shooting revolvers, 1911's and a couple that use the steel-framed S&Ws at my matches. I design my stages for a minimum of 12 rounds, so everybody has to reload at least once. It's all good practice and good fun.

I think I'm hearing a common perception that one must have the "perfect" gun, ammo, and rig to shoot competition, which is not the case. I've had people call me over and over about their equipment for months before they got up the courage to just come try it.