Handgun

Handgun Equipment

It should be emphasized that complex and expensive modifications are not needed to start IPSC shooting. Most pistols out-of-the-box are quite adequate and most competitors strive to reach the limits of even a box stock standard pistol.

Changes and modifications can always be made as you need them. Don’t let yourself get caught up by the current fads and fashion. Competitors may enter any one Division depending on the style of firearm they use.

Nothing is more important than reliability. A reliable government model 1911 with standard sights and a standard trigger pull that functions 100% will win every time over a full-house race gun that doesn’t work. If the handgun functions correctly with your ammo then all is well. If not, your first concern is to make the handgun reliable.

Modifications which improve accuracy are good sights and a good trigger. Modifications which increase comfort, control, handling, and speed are items like beavertails, extended magazine releases, checkering, extended thumb safeties, enlarged magazine wells, etc.

Power Factor

Major and Minor factor are the two power factors floors recognized in IPSC. The power factor of a firearm is calculated using the formula of Bullet Weight (grains) times Velocity (feet/second) divided by 1000.

IPSC Handgun Divisions

The dominant pistol that was used in IPSC when it was first started was the Colt 1911 in .45 ACP. Over the years, as firearm technology and calibres improved, the choice for the competitor has increased. Now there are many different models and manufacturers of firearms used in IPSC. The 1911 style of firearm still makes up a large segment of the equipment that competitors use.

It is common practice for most competitors to have their pistols modified to suit their personal needs. Make sure that you check the rulebook to determine what modifications are allowed in each Division.

To be successful in IPSC competition you need to have a firearm that is reliable. It is strongly recommended to have a qualified gunsmith do any or all modifications to a firearm that involve the internal workings.

Magazines / Speedloaders

A competitor will need a minimum of five magazines, or six speedloaders (more is better). Magazines and speedloaders are the heart of a firearm and without good quality, properly cared for magazines or speedloaders the firearm will malfunction sooner or later. All the magazines should drop easily when the magazine catch is depressed.

When buying spare magazines or speedloaders purchase the best ones that are available. Aftermarket magazines usually come with better features such as extra round capacity, larger base pads, quick releases etc. Check the rulebook to determine what extra features are allowed for each Division.

Firearms Legislation in each Australian State or Territory limit the capacity of magazines used in IPSC Handgun competitions to 10 rounds maximum.

Ammunition

The majority of IPSC competitors load their own ammunition. The primary reason for this is that the cost savings are significant and the ammunition can be tuned to the firearm. This will allow the firearm to perform at its maximum potential. Extreme care must always be taken in the reloading of ammunition. It is not necessary to load ammunition beyond safe levels. All that is required is to achieve the necessary power factor.

When loading for competition it is essential to use the best components. Reliability is the key factor, for even the most expensive firearm will not function properly if it is fed sub-standard ammunition.

If you decide to load your own ammunition, it is strongly recommended that you purchase or have access to a chronograph. A chronograph is used to measure the speed a bullet is travelling. This will allow you to calculate your power factor. In most competitions, it is required that the ammunition is chronographed to determine if the ammunition is Major or Minor.

Belt, Holsters, Magazine Pouches

A well-designed belt is a necessity. It will aid a competitor in the draw and allow consistent access to competitor’s firearm and magazines.

The belt must be securely fastened at hip level. The belt should be stiff enough to hold the holster and magazine pouches in the same position at all times.

There are many different holster and pouch manufacturers. Whatever holster you choose it should be constructed in such a manner that it will retain the firearm correctly during vigorous activities yet allow you an unimpeded draw. The holster must cover the trigger guard and keep the firearm close to the competitor’s body.

The holster should be designed so that the competitor can obtain a firm grip on the firearm with the strong hand without moving it in the holster. If possible, it is recommended that competitors try on a number of different holster designs to determine which one suits them best.

Magazine pouches are worn on the belt usually on the opposite side of the holster. The pouches must hold the magazines securely yet allow the competitor unimpeded access.

Pouches should be cut low enough to ensure that a proper grip can be obtained on the magazine. Most competitors wear a minimum of three pouches on their belt.

There are individual rules for each Division in regards to holster and equipment. Please refer to the rulebook for more information.

Other Related Equipment

A good shooting bag will allow you to carry the necessary accessories, ammunition, etc. to the range. It is recommended that it have compartments that will keep items separate.

Items that should be included in your range bag would be eye and hearing protection, cleaning equipment, lubricant, spare parts, rag or towel, scoring overlays, and current rulebook.

When going to practice, other items may aid you in training. These include but are not limited to: targets, target patches, target stands, staple gun, chronograph, and timer.

Uncasing is when an athlete wants to remove a firearm from a carry case. When uncasing a firearm you should know which direction the firearm is pointing when the case is closed. That way when the case is opened the firearm will be pointing in the designated safe direction. This can only be done in the designated safety area or under the direct supervision of a Range Officer. It is always recommended to verify the firearm is unloaded.