Gunshop IDPA Matches

I.D.P.A. at The Gun Shop, Inc. & Range, in Leesburg, Fl.

Our monthly IDPA match is held on the 4th Sunday of each month, sign-in is at 9:00am. We are never rained out and; since we can control the lighting, we normally shoot an "adverse light" stage, requiring a flashlight to identify and engage the targets. Bring your own "Super Ninja Tactical Illumination Device!" or we’ll supply a flashlight. The indoor range also allows us to conduct ‘blind stages’, where the shooter does not see the stage layout until they begin; and are required to: “Solve the Problem!” Much like in real life.

We hold Classifier matches on (usually!) a quarterly basis; normally on the month following each month that has a 5th Sunday.

The classifier matches are announced on The Gun Shop IDPA YahooGroups Announcement List, but are usually on the 2nd Saturday, beginning at 5pm.(email for details)So…

Just what is I.D.P.A. ???

The International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) is a shooting sport that simulates self-defense scenarios and real life encounters. It was founded in 1996 as a response to the desires of shooters worldwide. The organization now boasts membership of more than 14,000, including members in over 40 foreign countries.
One of the unique facets of this sport is that it is geared toward the new or average shooter, yet is fun, challenging and rewarding for the experienced shooter. The founders developed the sport so that practical gear and practical guns may be used competitively.
An I.D.P.A. member can spend a minimal amount on equipment and still be competitive. It is entirely possible to compete successfully with the 9mm/.40/.45 pistol or 6-shot revolver that one carries for personal protection on a daily basis. Many members do just that.

The main goal is to test the skill and ability of the individual, not equipment or gamesmanship. In fact; “Competition only” equipment is not permitted in I.D.P.A.

The firearms are grouped into five (5) divisions:

1) Custom Defensive Pistol (.45ACP semi-automatics only)
2) Enhanced Service Pistol (9mm or larger caliber single action semi-automatics)
3) Stock Service Pistol (9mm or larger caliber double action, double action only, or safe action semi-automatics)
4) Enhanced Service Revolver (.357 caliber or larger double action revolvers)
5) Stock Service Revolver (.38 caliber or larger double action revolvers).

Shooters are then classed by their personal skill levels with progression from Novice (NV); to Marksman (MM); to Sharpshooter (SS); to Expert (EX); and, finally, to Master (MA).

Most importantly, I.D.P.A. emphasizes safety!! Safety is always the first priority!

Shooters will always have an I.D.P.A. trained and certified Safety Officer right beside them anytime that their gun is loaded and while they are shooting a Course of Fire.

The Safety Officer’s job is to keep you, and others, safe. Their commands are the law!!

Shooters new to I.D.P.A. will be given a New Shooter Briefing prior to shooting their first match, and will receive special attention from the Safety Officers to ensure that their first experience shooting an I.D.P.A. match is a safe and enjoyable one.

If you have a Concealed Weapons License, carry a gun for personal protection;
and you are not an I.D.P.A. member… you’re missing out on a valuable venue for realistic practice!!

For information on other clubs hosting IDPA matches in Florida, go to: http://www.odpursuits.com/fla_idpa/

To learn all about IDPA and to download the rulebook, go to:
http://www.idpa.com/Documents/IDPARuleBook2005.pdf

Lance Biddle is the Florida Area Coordinator for IDPA;

and is available to answer any questions or concerns regarding IDPA in Florida. Email: onthebeep@yahoo.com Phone: 863-289-2288

IDPA Main Website
(The official IDPA website.)
(To join IDPA online, download the rulebook,
find major match information,or find IDPA clubs worldwide)

Florida IDPA Website
(Quick guide to IDPA clubs in Florida)

Florida IDPA Group at Yahoo.groups
(Florida Clubs Match announcements and IDPA related information
for Florida IDPA members)

The Gun Shop IDPA YahooGroups Announcement List
(Information and match announcements;
restricted to those who are involved in competition activities at
The Gun Shop, Inc. & Range, in Leesburg, Florida)