Help with IDPA Divisions

[runway1]

Help me understand this:
8.1.1. Division Summary
8.1.1.1. IDPA is divided into five (5) divisions that are entirely separate. None of the following divisions compete against any other division: Stock Service Pistol (SSP); Enhanced Service Pistol (ESP); Custom Defensive Pistol (CDP); Enhanced Service Revolver (ESR); and Stock Service Revolver (SSR).
8.1.1.2. Double action, double action only and striker fired semi-automatic firearms compete in Stock Service Pistol Division (SSP). Any firearm that can be used in SSP can be used in Enhanced Service Pistol Division (ESP) or Custom Defensive Pistol Division (CDP), depending upon the caliber. Single action semi-automatic firearms compete in ESP or CDP, depending upon caliber. Revolvers are classified by loading method and ammunition power.

What does a DA/SA fall in to? Also, I've read that a Springfield XD-M puts you in the ESP Div. I thought the XD-M was a striker fire?

Lastly, what are the biggest differences between USPSA and IDPA?? Thanks all!

[ke6guj]

when they list Double-Action and then separately list Double-Action-Only, Double-Action means DA/SA

[runway1]

when they list Double-Action and then separately list Double-Action-Only, Double-Action means DA/SA

Thought so. Just wanted to make sure I assumed correctly. Thanks!

[HighLander51]

Lastly, what are the biggest differences between USPSA and IDPA?? Thanks all!

The difference USPSA and IDPA is 'The Rules', the round count and the equipment. Both are shooting games that are timed and scored which reward speed and accuracy. Keep in mind that IDPA was invented by one of the greatest ever IPSC shooters, Bill Wilson. So for example IDPA requires concealment and cover, USPSA does not. IDPA requires tactical or sequential priority engagement of targets, USPSA does not. USPSA allows as many magazines as you want, IDPA allows only 2 magazines. USPSA allows optics and extended magazines, IDPA does not. USPSA scores on hit factor, IDPA scores on time plus, etc,etc. Just find the nearest match to you and jump in. Tell the match director you are new to competition, some clubs require a safety class prior to a match.

Shoot fast, have fun.

Here is a good read.

http://www.uspsa.org/frontsight_archive/a/2006-03.pdf

[HighLander51]

Whichever game you decide to play you are going to need good equipment, so don't cheap out with an Uncle Mikes nylon holster and Walmart belt.

Get a BladeTech straight drop holster, bladetech single mag pouches, Wilderness Original Instructors belt, and electric ears, Peltor Tac 6's are $50 on Amazon.

[rmatt]

orignally xd's were in esp, but the rules changed this year and xd/xdm are in SSP now.

most da/sa guns like a sig p226 or berreta 92f are gonna be in SSP

[Gryff]

What does a DA/SA fall in to? Also, I've read that a Springfield XD-M puts you in the ESP Div. I thought the XD-M was a striker fire?

DA/SA guns are generally legal for SSP and ESP.

Originally, the XD family was not legal for SSP because the BATFE had ruled them as having single-action trigger mechanisms. The rules changed two months ago, and now ALL striker-fired guns are legal in SSP (assuming they meet all other division requirements).

So, an XD can be used in both SSP and ESP. If it is an XD45 (.45acp), then it can be used in SSP, ESP, and CDP.

Lastly, what are the biggest differences between USPSA and IDPA?? Thanks all!

At it's simplest level, USPSA is more about speed shooting, while IDPA is scenario-based competition. In USPSA, there is a mental component, since each shooter is allowed to engage the targets in the manner that they feel is most advantageous for them (usually). In IDPA, competitors almost always engage the targets in an identical manner since there are rules about how/when you can engage targets.

Additionally, IDPA has more-stringent rules regarding the amount of movement in a stage and the number of rounds you are required to fire. It is challenging for experienced shooters, but I find that it offers a less-intimidating entrance into gun games than USPSA might.

[runway1]

That answers a lot for me. Thanks all. Much appreciated!

[9mmepiphany]

DA/SA guns are pretty popular locally. The most common ones are SIG 220 (CDP) and 226/229 (SSP)...we even had a couple of Pro 2022 recently. Usually a couple of Beretta 92 or 96 (SSP) and H&K USP (SSP/ESP/CDP)

And it isn't just competing, the USP shooter is a pretty consistent Class winner

[9mmepiphany]

The rules changed two months ago, and now ALL striker-fired guns are legal in SSP (assuming they meet all other division requirements).

I'm thinking of trying out my H&K P7M8 in SSP this years...just have to shoot more carefully and reload faster to make up for the 2 fewer rounds

[Gryff]

How often do you see DA/SA guns in these competitions? I'd think not often.

Sadly, the DA/SA guns like the basic Sigs, HKs, and Berettas are at a mechanical disadvantage over the likes of Glocks and M&Ps (and now XDs) because of that heavy first trigger pull.

Personally, I think SSP should be for the DA/SA and hammer-utilizing DAO guns, while the striker-fired guns should run in their own division. I think it's unfortunate that guns of that quality and popularity are eclipsed by the plastic wonder pistols.

I'm thinking of trying out my H&K P7M8 in SSP this years...just have to shoot more carefully and reload faster to make up for the 2 fewer rounds

Even if you don't win, it will make you better with the pistol.

I've been shooting revolver a lot this year. Not winning any championships with it, but it a LOT of fun seeing my wheelgun skills develop.

[Scotty]

P7M8 is fun too shoot. I used to shoot it in SSP before they moved it to ESP. The only time it becomes a disadvantage is if there is a 18 round stage where you end up doing 2 reloads instead of one. But that doesn't happen that often anymore.

[USPSA GM]

The DA/SA guns are not at a disadvantage as proven by the fact that the USPSA Nationals have been won by a Beretta. They do however require a shooter that has put n the work to shoot the platform well.

[Bob Hostetter]

Success in any division requires putting in the work, some just require more work then others. I tend to shoot CDP because I think with the small mags and additional recoil it is the toughest division to win. That makes it the most rewarding to win, even better when you can win stages, or matches, outright against the other divisions.

[Gryff]

The DA/SA guns are not at a disadvantage as proven by the fact that the USPSA Nationals have been won by a Beretta. They do however require a shooter that has put n the work to shoot the platform well.

That was 10 years ago. I don't think SSP has been won by anything other than a Glock or M&P since then. BTW, Ernest Langdon (the guy who won SSP with a Beretta) has shot an M&P for the past seven years.

Of course, it is usually the Indian and not the arrow, but from a pure mechanical standpoint, the DA/SA guns are at a disadvantage when compared to the striker-fired guns.