Getting Started in pistol matches. Weapons?

[clrems77]

Looking to start shooting pistol matches and wanted to see what most guys are using as far as handguns go? Any advantages/disadvantages to a particular weapon?

[Mazdaspeed Jon]

They typically use the ones that go "bang" when you pull the trigger. Lol. But seriously, what type of pistol matches are you looking to compete in? USPSA, IDPA, GSSF?

[reckoner]

Looking to start shooting pistol matches and wanted to see what most guys are using as far as handguns go? Any advantages/disadvantages to a particular weapon?

You can use whatever, but striker fired pistols (Glock 17/19/34, S&W M&P9/Pro) and 1911s are the most common.

You don't see a ton of DA/SA guns out there, but there are some shooters at the top levels who do use them.

[XDmax]

I shoot in IDPA. I see mostly Glock and Springfield Armory.

[clrems77]

They typically use the ones that go "bang" when you pull the trigger. Lol. But seriously, what type of pistol matches are you looking to compete in? USPSA, IDPA, GSSF?

HA! Right now im looking at whatever is nearby that im allowed to enter. It something just for fun to better my skills at. Seems like most are USPSA and IDPA along with some little local matches.

Im looking towards a Glock 9mm or maybe a Sig 226 SAO or similar.

[Kurgan]

Do you own a handgun now? If so, I'd suggest you get some extra magazines, a holster, some mag holders and go out and shoot. I wouldn't buy a gun for competition, unless you decide what it is you really want out of it.

I've shot any number of handguns at either IDPA or USPSA matches. Everything from single action autos, to 1911's to striker fired pistols, to SA/DA autos. I'm not trying to win the match, so I shoot what I like, and sometimes what I carry regularly.

I'm old and fat (not super fat) though. It does take some athletic ability to run a course as fast as the top level shooters. The odds of me being truly competitive are fairly slim. I do it because it's fun, and it's a challenge.

[TopMCITWS]

Do not forget ICORE (International Confederation of Revolver Enthusiasts) to add to the list of shooting sports. I actively participate in USPSA matches and will frequently switch between shooting a 1911 (single stack) and a S&W 625 (revolver). In the same category as Kurgan, have no expectations of winning -- do it only for the entertainment value and as an opportunity to practice safe gun handling skills.

[Mazdaspeed Jon]

HA! Right now im looking at whatever is nearby that im allowed to enter. It something just for fun to better my skills at. Seems like most are USPSA and IDPA along with some little local matches.

Im looking towards a Glock 9mm or maybe a Sig 226 SAO or similar.

I'd stay away from the Sig. They are good guns but really pricey and not well suited for competition. If Glocks fit your hand well, I'd look at picking up a G34. It is well suited for either USPSA or IDPA. Then get yourself about 6 mags total, a sturdy belt, a Blade-Tech OWB holster and single mag pouches. Then it's just a matter of finding a match, coming out, asking questions, and having fun. Near you I'd look at both Prado Running Gun and Norco Running Gun. They run USPSA matches multiple times per month and shouldn't be too far of a drive. Pala is another place that wouldn't bee too far of a drive.

[XDmax]

There is a match this weekend at Prado. Right off of the 91/71 freeway. You can come check it out and watch a match.

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=1017878

[rmatt]

I too second the Glock 34 for as a first gun opinion! And if you reload I'd say Glock 35.

If you don't like Glock then i say S&W M&P line in 9mm.

[Mazdaspeed Jon]

I too second the Glock 34 for as a first gun opinion! And if you reload I'd say Glock 35.

If you don't like Glock then i say S&W M&P line in 9mm.

I'm an M&P guy so it pained me to recommend a Glock, but you also have to remember we are now living in the post-SSE republik of Kalifornia so there are no more M&Ps on the roster. I also wouldn't worry about getting anything other than a 9mm right now (G34 is 9mm, G35 is .40) since it is cheaper to shoot and you don't need the .40 cal to make major power factor since you will most likely be shooting Production Division with it.

[Ronin2]

if you are a new shooter just getting into shooting and have little experience... Id say get a striker fired weapon. Glocks are the most common, the M&P's are popular as are the Springfield's. The striker fired pistol will eliminate the added fine motor skill issues of a long DA pull on a DA/SA gun as well as decocking issues and on single action weapons, safety manipulation (both thumb and grip). Just remember to keep the finger straight and out of trigger guard unless you are looking thru your sights at your target and are preparing to fire.

[Caseless]

For newbies who seldom practice, start with a steel frame pistol like the CZ-75 series.
If you practice/dry fire frequently, get a Glock 9mm. G17, 19, or 34.

[Euphoria526]

I'm similarly interested in idpa. Got the holster and a few other mags.
Looking to start with action pistol matches.

[Ronin2]

I'm similarly interested in idpa. Got the holster and a few other mags.
Looking to start with action pistol matches.

I am a SiG guy and it pains me as well to say this but you cant go wrong with a 9mm G19 or the mid sized S&W M&P for your first IDPA gun.

I use my carry guns when I shoot IDPA... SiG P228 or a HKvp9 but I think that until you really start to drink the competition KoolAid, the Glock or M&P will serve as excellent first weapons for competition.