9mmshtnggear
Member
Just purchased a S&W 9mm Pro and added a Apex tactical FSS flat faced forward set trigger kit. Looking for advice on a new belt and holster. Currently using a Wilderness instructors belt with Blackhawk Serpa holster.
Getting started in IDPA need advice.
- Thread starter 9mmshtnggear
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Tanners Owner
US Veteran
I've been using a 511 leather belt, very stiff that holds my gun laden holsters very well.
My initial holster choice would be a Blade tech OWB holster. I've have good success with them. Whole I prefer leather for carry, I like Kytex for my matches, as they are perfect for reholstering w/out any issues- such as collapsing.
Congrats on getting into IDPA. I do both IDPA and USPSA. Good fun.
Let us know how you enjoy your first couple of matches
My initial holster choice would be a Blade tech OWB holster. I've have good success with them. Whole I prefer leather for carry, I like Kytex for my matches, as they are perfect for reholstering w/out any issues- such as collapsing.
Congrats on getting into IDPA. I do both IDPA and USPSA. Good fun.
Let us know how you enjoy your first couple of matches
Ray1970
Member
I'll also throw out a recommendation for a Blade-Tech holster. Excellent holsters at a reasonable price. I've used them exclusively for years of IDPA.
I used a Wilderness belt for a brief time for competition and while it generally worked pretty well I found a belt from Safariland that was thicker and keeps my gear in place a little better.
Honestly, my recommendation would be to use the gear you already have and start shooting. You'll figure out what you want or need as you progress and other shooters will be glad to tell you which gear they use and why.
I used a Wilderness belt for a brief time for competition and while it generally worked pretty well I found a belt from Safariland that was thicker and keeps my gear in place a little better.
Honestly, my recommendation would be to use the gear you already have and start shooting. You'll figure out what you want or need as you progress and other shooters will be glad to tell you which gear they use and why.
Grayfox
US Veteran
My first recommendation is to ditch that holster. Several NDs have been attributed to the trigger finger push button release they use. Some IDPA clubs, including mine, have banned them.
The next question is what's your goal with IDPA? Serious competitor, fun shooter or CCW practice?
If you're serious, there are ways to "game" it and still stay within the rules. You'll learn as you go.
I shoot IDPA because its as close as you can get to real world practice for concealed carry. But then, at 63, I just ain't fast enough any more to be a serious competitor.
I use just normal everyday guns and carry gear just like EDC.
I also do it just for fun.
The next question is what's your goal with IDPA? Serious competitor, fun shooter or CCW practice?
If you're serious, there are ways to "game" it and still stay within the rules. You'll learn as you go.
I shoot IDPA because its as close as you can get to real world practice for concealed carry. But then, at 63, I just ain't fast enough any more to be a serious competitor.
I use just normal everyday guns and carry gear just like EDC.
I also do it just for fun.
OP
9mmshtnggear
Member
Semi serious would like to contend locally.
AS I said in another post today, a LOT of people are showing up at IDPA with gear that makes no sense with the new IDPA rules. Are you aware that the FSS mod is illegal in Stock Service Pistol and throws you into ESP, shooting against $3000 STI pistols?
I always recommend going to a match with what you have and learning the game and rules before spending $$$ trying to get the perfect rig.
I shoot the M&P Pro9 5" in SSP with a Blade Tech range pack of holster and mag holder on a Don Hume belt.
IDPA Match Director
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jimbo728
Member
Not to do with gun and gear but if you are starting in IDPA and want a head start, check the IDPA classifier course of fire.
You can practice the runs, three stages, 90 rounds total and gain some skills that will give you some confidence.
Good Luck
Jim
You can practice the runs, three stages, 90 rounds total and gain some skills that will give you some confidence.
Good Luck
Jim
crankyoldlady
Member
The Serpa has active retention...yes? A passive retention such as Blade Tech promotes a smoother draw.
IDPA is a blast. Don't get crazy with new equipment until you have a couple of matches under your belt and you find out what works for you and what does not. Also you can get a rule book downloaded from the IDPA web site, it has lots of good info on equipment rules and regulations.
OP
9mmshtnggear
Member
Thanks everyone for your advice.
YogiBear
Absent Comrade
Aloha,
I've always considered IPSC/IDPA a big boys GAME.
I competed with what I had as long as it met safety requirements
I competed strictly for my self improvement.
Accuracy, speed and Safe gun handling under stress conditions.
Why else would I run a M57 or 58 with heavy target loads when a M27/28
would do.
I had the Wife compete for the same reasons.
She is competent with a Beretta 92 or 96 that she qualified to be a NRA
handgun instructor and likes to teach other women Basic Handgun classes.
I've always considered IPSC/IDPA a big boys GAME.
I competed with what I had as long as it met safety requirements
I competed strictly for my self improvement.
Accuracy, speed and Safe gun handling under stress conditions.
Why else would I run a M57 or 58 with heavy target loads when a M27/28
would do.
I had the Wife compete for the same reasons.
She is competent with a Beretta 92 or 96 that she qualified to be a NRA
handgun instructor and likes to teach other women Basic Handgun classes.
Pizza Bob
Member
The new classifier is three 24 round stages for a total round count of 72. Not that running through the old classifier wouldn't also be helpful.
Adios,
Pizza Bob
Johnrh
Member
I also recommend the BladeTech holster. I use it for my Pro 40 and love it. Don't forget to get two magazine holders.
JamesArthur60
US Veteran
Aside from guns and gear, I tell new participants to begin competing (since it is a game) within their gun handing skills/experience. In other words, keep your manly testosterone in check. You will want to keep up with the more experienced shooters regarding speed. That will come with several matches under your belt. As a new shooter watch those guys and gals. Watch how they run the stage, where they reload, etc. Enjoy the game.
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