Competition
An IDPA match consists of one or more stages. A stage presents a course of fire for the shooter to complete. A course of fire consists of one or more strings of fire. A string of fire is a timed segment in a course of fire. The time to complete a string of fire begins with a start signal (typically audible) and ends with the last shot fired. Time is measured by a shot timer, which provides the start signal and records each shot fired. Since a stage presents a course of fire, the term "stage" is often used interchangeably with "course of fire." This is evidenced by section 6 of the rules, "Stage Design Rules." There are two types of stages: Scenario and Standards. A Scenario stage represents a self-defense situation that could happen in real life. A Standards stage tests shooting fundamentals. ==Scoring==
Scoring
Stage score is determined by adding the time it took to complete the course of fire (raw time), time added for points down, and, time added for penalties. Match score is determined by adding the total time of all the stages. Match placement is based on total time. The lower the time, the higher the placement. The 1997 rulebook increased the time added to 0.5 seconds per point down. On 9/29/2015, IDPA announced they would change the time added to 1.0 seconds per point down. This change became effective in the 2017 rulebook. Scoring methods There are two methods of scoring: Unlimited and Limited. Scenario stages must use Unlimited scoring. Standards stages may use either method, although Limited scoring is commonly used on Standards stages. Unlimited Scoring Unlimited scoring means that the shooter may fire more than the required number of shots at a target. The best of the required number of hits on the target are scored. Extra shots (makeups) are beneficial if they remove more points down than the time it takes to fire them. Limited Scoring Limited scoring means that the shooter may NOT fire more than the required number of shots at a target. Firing extra rounds on a limited stage will earn a procedural penalty. In addition to the penalty, for each extra shot fired at a target, the highest scoring hit will be removed (taped over) prior to scoring the target. For example: A Limited Scoring stage calls for two shots per threat target. The shooter fires one round into the "-0" zone and one round into the "-1" zone. The shooter then fires an extra shot, hitting the "-0" zone. Because the shooter fired an extra shot on a "Limited" stage, the highest scoring hit on the target--the "-0" hit--is removed, leaving the "-0" and "-1" hits. The final score on the target is "down 1." The shooter is also assessed a procedural error (PE) penalty (see below). Penalties Procedural Error (PE) A procedural error is a 3-second penalty given for violating the rules of IDPA or failing to follow the shooting actions specified by the course of fire. Shooting actions are attributes of shooting, e.g. Strong-hand only, weak-hand only, kneeling, sitting, prone, etc. Examples of procedural errors include: • Faulting a cover line while engaging a target at a Point of Cover. • Not engaging targets in tactical priority. • Not shooting strong-hand only as required by the stage procedure. • Leaving loaded loading devices behind after performing a reload. Hit on Non-Threat (HNT) Targets identified with two open hands are considered "non-threat" targets. A hit on a non-threat in any scoring zone will result in a 5-second penalty for each and every hit. Flagrant Penalty (FP) A flagrant penalty is a 10-second penalty given in place of a PE when the shooter knowingly commits an infraction and gains a competitive advantage that outweighs the 3-second PE penalty the infraction would normally earn. Flagrant penalties may be assessed by the Safety Officer for infractions such as: • Shooting with two hands when the procedure requires for one-handed shooting. • Engaging an entire array of threats while faulting cover. • Loading more rounds than allowed in the shooter's division. The examples provided in the rule book should not be considered automatic. The Safety Officer must use judgment to determine if the infraction warrants a Flagrant penalty. Flagrant penalties must be approved by the match director. Failure to Do Right (FTDR) A failure to do right is a 20-second penalty given for "gross unsportsmanlike conduct". "Gross unsportsmanlike conduct" includes unacceptable behavior as well as intentional gross violations of the course of fire. FTDR penalties must be approved by the match director. ==Equipment==
Equipment
Firearms IDPA currently recognizes nine divisions of competition, with each division having different limitations for the firearms. The Revolver (REV) and Back-Up Gun (BUG) divisions are further divided into two subcategories each. In the following table, note that "Max Rounds Loaded" is a general maximum for all competitions. Instructions for a stage may require a lower round count for that stage. In the semi-automatic divisions, this refers to the maximum number of rounds allowed to be loaded in the magazine. Unless stage instructions state otherwise, shooters may start with an additional round in the chamber. Also note that "Other Firearm Restrictions" only lists the most significant firearm restrictions for a division. Holsters • Holster must be attached to a belt worn through belt loops. All but two belt loops must be used • Holster must hold the firearm with enough tension to allow the wearer to complete normal daily tasks without fear of losing the weapon • Except for law enforcement officers competing using their duty equipment, the holster must be concealable • Shoulder, ankle, and cross-draw holsters are not allowed due to safety concerns ==See also==