brauchma wrote:I have heard that there is an IDPA league of some sorts in St. Cloud. I am interested in checking it out. Does anybody know much about it? I know they had some sort of winter shoot that somebody from the "other forum" told me about. I can't reall who told me about it though.
We (
Twin Cities IDPA) used to shoot at Del-Tone. Due to scheduling conflicts, we had to search out a new range for summer use and as the above poster posted, we landed at Beaverbrook, right outside of East Bethel. I don't think there's anyone shooting IDPA in the area. There is an IPSC/USPSA club that shoots up there (SCAPSA).
Minnetonka Game and Fish is another club, located in St. Francis. We cooperate on schedules and have no conflicts, many people shoot both leagues.
Are there things I can practice on my own that could make me somewhat prepared? I have seen some videos on youtube of some events...pretty cool.
Read the rulebook so you know what is expected. Twin Cities IDPA Club requires you take a basic competition class, have prior action pistol experience, or are active LE/mil before you can shoot with us. MGFC doesn't have such a requirement, but I suggest you seek someone out to work on the basic range commands with you so you know what to expect. You're also welcome to watch a match or part of one to get the flavor for it.
As for working at home, without giving away too many speed secrets (heheh) you should work on drawing from a holster, magazine changes, and dryfiring. Make sure you do it safely, IE empty gun and no ammo in the room.
If you are going to a range, our typical engagement distances are 7-20 yards. Many beginners have problems with 20 yards and are under the impression that you can double tap from back there and keep the rounds on paper. In IDPA, misses are penalized pretty severely, my suggestion is start at a speed where you can make your hits. At the range shooting standing but stationary, I try to keep all rounds inside an 8" circle at 20 yards. Work on that and see how fast you can do that. This will give you a good idea how fast you should be shooting at a match.
MGFC has a match in a week and a half. I would suggest coming out, and either watching or shooting. Get there a little early (9am should do it), and ask an SO or experienced shooter to walk you through what to expect. Bring a positive attitude, 100 rounds, at least 3 mags and a mag holder, a good strong side holster and a reliable firearm. You will enjoy yourself.