IDPA Equipment Survey

[zx6rpete]

I ran across this on another board and found it interesting.

International Defensive Pistol Association - Tactical Journal Article

Glock definitely has a much larger following than the XD or M&P.

[jnclement]

Not surprising, Glock has sold a buttload more pistols, for a substantially longer time. More aftermarket parts. Glock has been around since when, '85? Springfield 2002? M&P 2007?

[Myk9noseknows]

It's soooooo cheap and easy to modify a Glock, anyone can do it. The pistols are inexpensive, they are very accurate, and you can do over a thousand modifications yourself. I had a #3 trigger on mine and every bell and whistle that was on the market.

but remember, the glock has been around over 20 years, the XD and M&P need that much time to ''catchup''

I shoot my 1911 and my XD45C in IDPA. I'm usually the only one there with an XD, let alone in .45

[moosedan]

looking foward to sat am first time to shoot at one I was just going to take my xd9 I spoke with the guy incharge told me what I need to bring.
where can you get belts, mag holders and other stuff I'll need.
online store ? what brands dont work well?

[Myk9noseknows]

Originally Posted by moosedan

looking foward to sat am first time to shoot at one I was just going to take my xd9 I spoke with the guy incharge told me what I need to bring.
where can you get belts, mag holders and other stuff I'll need.
online store ? what brands dont work well?

First off, WELCOME to IDPA.

IDPA is a pretty open category as far as equipment. I would suggest a cheap "instructors belt". They can be found for $20-$25, there's no need to spend a lot on a leather belt unless you will wear it other places besides IDPA matches. I actually get a free one with every pair of 5.11 pants I buy from LA Police Gear Tactical Gear featuring 511 Tactical, Galco, Surefire and Blackhawk. But I would buy one that is
considered ''reinforced''. Basically that means that it holds the shape of a waist (not flat, but round), when you're not wearing it. It's a stiff belt that can easily hold a heavy pistol and magazines all day long and not pull your pants down.

I suggest you buy a holster and magazine pouch that you are actually going to carry your pistol in. That's the whole idea behind IDPA. It's an organization for people to learn and compete in everyday CCW situations.

Douche bags with $2000 pistols and who dress like a SWAT member will be seen at IDPA and it sickens me. But actually, 95% of the people there are friendly and helpful. ok, back on topic

Anyway, you will want a belt (instructor is cheapest), a sturdy OWB holster that you will carry CCW (kydex, leather, blackhawk CQC, etc...doesn't really matter), a double magazine pouch either kydex or leather and either attached to your belt or a paddle (i use belt attachments). You will need either a ''tactical'' or ''photographer'' vest or an overshirt that buttons down the front. The vests cost $45 easily, so I'd just start off with a short sleeve button up shirt (think Hawaiian shirt, but maybe without the flowers ) This is just used so you can conceal your handgun since all drills are considered CCW and you will be drawing from a conceal position.

Lastly, you will need the usual range stuff, ear protection, eye protection, and ammo (usually under 100 rounds per session).

You can find that stuff locally or online at places like:

Midwayusa.com
Brownells
pistolgear.com (XD sponsor)
TopGunSupply.com
Streichers police equipment
Bass Pro
Cabelas
Athletic stores like Academy or the Sports Authority

Remember to have fun, it's not really about competing as it is about becoming a better and more competant shooter.

[Lazarus]

I want to get into IDPA too but I have too much stuff on my plate right now.

[jdavionic]

We've got a guy that just bought and started competing with an M&P. The gun is just a PITA that constantly has problems with stove piping.

[jnclement]

Originally Posted by Myk9noseknows

Douche bags with $2000 pistols and who dress like a SWAT member will be seen at IDPA and it sickens me.

I sure haven't seen that at our club. Even our SWAT guys don't dress like SWAT guys. When you start, any heavy leather belt will work. And your XD gear will also work fine for a few matches, until you see if you like it or not.

[Lazarus]

Does the holster have to be OWB? I thought it could be IWB?

[Myk9noseknows]

Originally Posted by Lazarus

Does the holster have to be OWB? I thought it could be IWB?

Yes, it can be IWB or OWB, it's the shooters preference. My suggestion for OWB is for any IDPA newbie, it's much easier to draw from AND holster than a iwb.