hi All,

would like to try IDPA some day but for now just trying to become a consistant shot. Typically how far are targets in IDPA type matches....i'd like to become proficient at that range prior to trying to get involved.

thanks

IDPA never goes out past 15 yards, as most self-defense situations are within that range, and even all the way out to 15 is rare as most scenarios are set up at 10 yards and less.

The IDPA matches in our area have targets from 1 to 15 yards. I typicallly sight in my guns for point of aim at 50 ft. I also do all my practise at 50 ft. with the belief that the groups would be smaller at shorter distances.

I am an IDPA match director.

Some clubs are unfortunately calling their shoots "IDPA" but are not affiliated IDPA clubs nor do they use actual IDPA rules.
So what you find depends a lot on where you go.
Here is a link to actual IDPA clubs:
International Defensive Pistol Association - Affiliated Club State and Country List

The actual IDPA rules are on this link:
http://www.idpa.com/Documents/IDPARuleBook2005.pdf

IDPA allows both paper and steel targets, with a maximum range limit of 35 yards. 75% of all shots in a match must be 15 yds or less (pg 12 in rules). Most targets are the standard cardboard IDPA targets. Only 25% of the targets on a stage may be steel, and only 10% of the total targets in the match may be steel.
Scenario stages are limited to a maximum of 18 shots (not counting misses).
The dreaded standards stages are the exceptions to the scenario rules.

If you want to shoot IDPA, then find an affiliated IDPA club and GO SHOOT.

I get totally frustrated with people who wait and wait, trying to get the "perfect rig" and get "good enough."
IDPA people welcome beginners, and your first time is going to be a blur anyway. You will learn more in a few club matches than anything you read or hear secondhand.
1. Be safe.
2. Have fun.

thanks for the great info. much appreciated

The 15 yard rule of thumb is pretty good. The club level matches I shoot follow the IDPA rule pretty close. The first stage I ever shot with targets at 15 yards was at the outter range of my limit. Since then, I've worked the longer distance into the practice sessions and have gotten better. I did shoot a stage last month with a target at 25 or 30 yards. That pushed everyone's limits. Pretty fun.

That goes for any shooting events. It's also a pet peeve of mine. Don't wait. Best place to learn is at matches. Just be sure the range officer knows you are new so he can work with you to make sure you learn Right and are safe.

Just about every shooting event I've ever fired, the older shooters are more then willing to jump in and help new shooters.

I like anyone else have gone to differant events the first time, and was apperhensive. I always come away with three things:\

I learn something
I meet great people
and I have fun.

Never fails.