IDPA Pistol Tuesdays
The Durham County Wildlife Club is now an authorized IDPA (International Defensive Pistol Association) club.
The
International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) is the governing body of 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 13,500, including members in 36
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 interested person can spend a minimal amount on equipment
and still be competitive.
The main goal is to test the skill and ability of the individual, not equipment or gamesmanship. “Competition only” equipment is not permitted in this sport.
Like its name suggests, IDPA is a defensive style of shooting competition. Drawing from the holster, the competitor engages one or more targets in a prescribed "situational" course. There may be "hostages". There may be a "barricade" to seek cover, and shoot from behind. The shooter may have to fire (and reload) while advancing or retreating. Shooters are scored on both accuracy as well as time through the course. (Hint: Hitting a "hostage" does NOT help your score!). The "situation" (and course) will change from match to match, keeping the event challenging, but still fun.
Weather permitting, try to arrive by 6:00 PM, shooting starts at 6:30 PM and ends before 9. Help setting up the course is always appreciated and all shooters are expected to help paste targets. Regarding weather, if it’s warmer than 45 degrees at 4:30 PM and it’s not raining, we’re having a match. We maintain a mailing list for match announcements, including cancellations. To be added to the mailing list, click the following link to open the form in a new window or scroll down to the bottom of this page and fill out the form.
Subscribe to the Pistol Tuesday Mailing List
In the interest of keeping things moving quickly, our matches are lost brass events!
Equipment wise, all you need is your handgun,
a pistol, 9mm or better, or revolver, .38 or better. At least one, preferably
two spare magazines (or speed loaders), magazine holders, a belt type holster, a
good solid belt, and a box or two of ammo. Don't forget your eye and ear
protection! Check at the IDPA website for complete rules, equipment lists, and
approved firearms. You may wish to come watch a match and check with our regular
shooters before investing in equipment.
Our IDPA matches tend to be ‘old school’ with
simpler scenarios that put an emphasis on safety and building skills. We are
fortunate to have other ranges in this area that have world class IDPA matches
every month, like
The Range in Oxford and
PDHSC in south Raleigh. Our matches are a great opportunity for beginners to
learn new skills and old hands to sharpen theirs. Many of our beginner shooters
have gone on to win awards at the Carolina Cup, the NC State Match and other
major matches in nearby states.
DCWC IDPA MATCH SAFETY RULES – PLEASE READ BEFORE COMING TO A MATCH!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a member of DCWC or IDPA?
- No. These matches are open to the public.
What does the match cost?
- $5
How many rounds do I need for a match?
- About 60 typically. We shoot 4 stages, each stage is 12 to 18 rounds. We suggest bringing 100 rounds in case a reshoot of a stage is required. Reshoots may be necessary because of a prop failure, if your score was not recorded, or an RO stopped you in error.
What do I need to have for a match?
- Eye and ear protection. Hat suggested.
- Pistol
- Holster. Appropriate strong side holster that covers the trigger guard completely and holds the pistol securely.
- Three magazines
- 100 rounds of ammo
What time should I arrive?
- 6pm.
When do you usually finish?
- We strive to complete all 4 stages and end the match by 9pm.