USPSA competition has a number of handgun divisions designed to ensure fair competition depending upon the type of handgun used. Each division has certain restrictions on how you can wear your gear. More information can be found at www.uspsa.com, or better still dont hesitate to give us a call.
Contrary to popular belief you dont need to spend a lot of money to start shooting USPSA competition.
For simplicity then lets just assume that you will be using a regular handgun with iron sights e.g Glock 17, or Sig 226. Guns with optics, red dots and compensators tend to be far from a budget option but can be used with "race" holsters/rigs.
To get started in you'll need a stout belt (worn through your pant belt loops), ideally four mag pouches (or two double mag pouches) a belt holster, ear protection (plugs, muffs) and eye protection, (glasses or sunglasses) or safety glasses. Be aware that inexpensive safety glasses are rarely optically correct so be cautious what you buy. Wearing eye protection is essential to protect your eyes from potential unburnt powder, brass or the occasion bullet fragment splatter from steel plates but you need not wear certified safety glasses. If you want safety glasses with good optical clarity ESS ICE is one of the best options available - the lens is so tough it will stop a 12 guage shotgun round at ten yds!
We'd suggest that you have at least four and ideally 5 magazines. For revolver shooters you'll need to carry 8 moon clips.
A match at your local club will normally be made up of 5 or six stages, so take no less than 200 rounds- its better to have more ammo rather than not enough! Talk to your local club or give your area coordinator a call. You can view a list of clubs in your area at www.uspsa.com.
A rugged sports bag will be needed to carry your ammo, spare mags etc. and large enough to carry your gun in a pistol slip to a safe table. Sooner or later though you'll want to buy a range bag to better organize your gear.
Again please dont hesitate to call us if you have any questions about practical shooting-we'll be happy help you get started.
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