What's the difference?

[stubbicatt]

All: Went to Aurora yesterday to watch a USPSA match. The rifle range was closed down early for undisclosed reasons, so I didn't get to observe that part of the match.

There seems to be 3 organizations doing similar things: IPSC, USPSA, and IDPA.

My question may be big, but I'm a nooby, so: What's the difference?

Thanks.
Stubb

[pickenup]

USPSA - IPSC - same thing.
IDPA is kind of an IPSC light.

Quick definition.
IPSC = offence.
IDPA = defense.

There are other differences.

[cheapo]

I can load more than 10 rounds in a production gun by IPSC rules but not by USPSA rules.

[Hoser]

I can load more than 10 rounds in a production gun by IPSC rules but not by USPSA rules.

True. However you might only find a handfull of matches run under IPSC rules in the US.

[Hoser]

What's the difference?

I think what you saw last Saturday was a 3-gun match. Most of their safety rules and scoring is run just like USPSA/IPSC.

For the most part, USPSA is how many points per second can you shoot, with just about any type of handgun. There is no thought given to tactics.

Like USPSA, IDPA is a game/competition. It is focused on carry type guns only and "tactics." The list of allowable handguns and gear is more restrictive.

I shoot both and both have good and bad points. I made up an IDPA FAQ and posted it here.

www.uspsa.org

www.idpa.com

This Saturday there is a USPSA match in Aurora. Second Sundays is Pueblo West. Go here for more info. www.ecouspsa.com