IPSC/IDPA

The topic has come up several times recently if the "combat handgunning" type of competitions are good training for self defense shootings. After shooting both IPSC and IDPA for many years, here are my observations:

First, both of these disciplines are good at teaching you how to run your gun. Drawing, sight alignment, trigger control and mag changes must be done correctly in order to do well.

After that, I have some huge heartaches. One thing I found myself doing out there in the real world was agonizing about my 180. In a law enforcement situation you must constantly be aware 360 degrees and my competition training was hampering that.

Another bad habit that the competition teaches you is to start on an auditory beep - something that doesn't happen in the real world.

Drawing with your hands relaxed at your sides (or in a surrender position) also is not likely. How about sitting in your car with the seat belt on? How about dipping your hand in water to simulate sweaty palms? Or drawing with your support hand because your strong hand is injured? Or pushing away your attacker so you even have room to draw your weapon?

The competitions use 2 dimensional targets (that are invariably broadside to you) and of course human targets are 3 dimensional and are often in contorted positions. You must develop the ability to see the depth of your adversary and place your shots so they hit the critical organs.

And lastly, my number one reason for not liking IPSC/IDPA for realistic gun training is that it teaches you week in and week out, month in and month out, year after year - that when you draw your gun you need to shoot. It's like that old cliche that if all you have is a hammer, then every problem looks like a nail. In these competions EVERY SINGLE TIME YOU DRAW YOUR GUN YOU ARE SHOOTING. Yes, I know that you are smart enough to know the difference but I'm telling you if you do it enough it becomes part of your psyche. I firmly believe that this affect your shoot/no shoot decision in the real world.

If you want to go out and have fun shooting, then by all means enjoy the competitions. Just don't think it will really help in a self defense shooting and will more likely hinder it.