Thinking of joining USPSA

[Spartikus]

I have only been shooting for a couple of months and still need lots of practice but I thought what better way to improve shooting on the move then doing it! USPSA seems like a lot of fun and good practice. Anyone have any advice about getting into it? I have watched a few videos on how it works and what a course would look like but that's it.

[kend]

The uspsa.org website has a feature that will allow you to find a match in your area, I would suggest going to watch first and that will give you the opportunity to meet some of the shooters and find out what kind of equipment you'll need. Another very important thing it would allow you to do is attend the new shooters briefing. Every match I've been to has had one but it's not a requirement so on the off chance that particular match does not have one you can ask the Match Director to find a shooter that can explain the ins and outs to you so you'll be aware of the safety issues and understand how it all works.

Another excellent forum for USPSA shooters is brianenos.com/forums/
That site is full of information about the game and anything related to it.

[Airedale]

Find a local club, go check out a match, and dive in. If you happen to be a revolver shooter, see if there are ICORE matches in your area.

As Kend said, check out the Enos forum. Great USPSA info.

Dave

[zamboni_driver]

I brought my gun and showed up at a USPSA match two weekends ago for the first time. Everyone was happy to offer pointers and I had a great time. You need a holster, at least 3 mags and some mag holders would also be nice. Tell them you are a first timer. Don't waste your time going to watch. Go and Shoot!

[handgunner356]

We are blessed with two clubs that shoot at the same location which is only used by them. They've had as many as 8 courses of fire but usually just have 4 set up at any given time. Probably 2/3rds. of the shooters are not members of USPSA and have very little desire to join. They are just out to shoot and have a good time and not planning on attending any major matches. Unless the club is really pushing it don't worry about signing up right away. If you really get hooked on it you'll go through plenty of guns and gear before you settle in, shoot and enjoy it first.

[kend]

Originally Posted by zamboni_driver

Don't waste your time going to watch. Go and Shoot!

This is usually the advice I give but recently we've had new shooters that explaining which end of the gun the bullets come out of would have been a challenge. I hope it's not a trend.....

[Spartikus]

Originally Posted by kend

This is usually the advice I give but recently we've had new shooters that explaining which end of the gun the bullets come out of would have been a challenge. I hope it's not a trend.....

LOL, if it makes you feel better I am not one of those people.

Now I just have to decide if I want to start by buying a holster for my M&P or my 1911! I'm sure I'll eventually get both but to keep the cost low I'll just pick one. Any suggestions on holsters?

[kend]

Kydex holsters are the most popular as they're the easiest to draw from and don't bind on the gun like leather. Uncle Mikes is the cheapest (stay away from the Fobus ****) that is a decent quality but the better Kydex gear is the hand made stuff like CompTac, Blade Tech or some of the lesser known home Kydex guys. Let me know which one you'd prefer to use and I'll see what I have laying around that I don't need, free gear is the best regardless of the maker

[retarmyaviator]

Even if you do not intend to participate in matches requiring USPSA membership the magazine you receive each month is well worth the price of membership.

I also see membership as a method of supporting the sport.

["JJ"]

I definately suggest taking a gun when you go check out a match. If you get there and don't get a good vibe you can always just watch. I went and just watched before my first match and was asked 4 or 5 times "wheres you gun?". There are shooters of al skill levels there so you will fit in. I would suggest getting to the range about an hour before it starts. This way you can walk the course and meet the other shooters. As for equipment, you need a holster, 4 or 5 mags & mag holders like zombonie_driver mentioned. And, of course, eyes and ears. Most require a hat/cap as well. Some athletic shoes would be helpful! We have one this weekend. I just got a M&P9c & I am thinking about taking it to shoot. I guess it would help break it in! Most of all have fun & watch the 180 rule! Break it and you usually are asked to leave!

[Spartikus]

Originally Posted by "JJ"

Most of all have fun & watch the 180 rule! Break it and you usually are asked to leave!

What is the 180 rule?

[SurgicalShark]

Originally Posted by Spartikus

What is the 180 rule?

Keep your weapon pointed down range! Handle it in a safe manner.

S&W M&P.40 4.5, Ameriglo Night Sights, Apex DCAEK