Excuse me? You want me to go where?

Just an FYI…If you’re ever asked if you want to go shoot the IDPA Indoor Nationals at Smith & Wesson, the correct answer is “Yes!”. I know, it doesn’t happen that often, but I was fortunate enough to be able to attend.

The 2011 IDPA Indoor Nationals was held in Springfield, MA at the Smith & Wesson Shooting Sports Center. This is the 14th year S&W has hosted the match and with nearly 300 competitors there it took a facility the size of the Shooting Sports Center to fit all the stages.

Match Director, Frank Glover and his crew of experienced Safety Officers did a great job running the shooters through the match. The match consisted of 12 stages in 7 range bays. They incorporated low light, movement, moving targets and reloading as well as a no light stage with a pick up gun which was a S&W Bodyguard .38 Special with the integral Insight laser. I hadn’t shot a gun with a laser on the clock while using a hand held light before. Note to self…Practice more with your handheld light. Stages were challenging but not overly complicated which allowed a shooter’s IDPA experience and skills show through.

If you’ve got a carry type pistol, an approved holster and mag pouches, and some sort of concealment you’re ready to try IDPA. Take a look at the IDPA website http://www.idpa.com/ it will explain the different divisions and classifications available. You can also find a local club near you, if you want to shoot IDPA Nationals, you’ve got to start somewhere. Contact your local club, you’ll be glad you did.

As for me, it was one of those times when my shooting was alright for an ad guy, but just being there was great. If you look at the squad photo, we had good shooters and great shooters. These are incredible opportunities to watch some of the best shooters around and take mental notes on what you need to practice and practice, and practice some more.

Thank you to Smith & Wesson and all those involved in putting on the match.  Also, thank you to FMG Publications for sending me.

Now, it’s on to the 3-Gun Season. First stop, the 2011 Superstition Mountain Mystery 3 Gun in Mesa, AZ. I’ve been getting some new gear ready for the match, stay tuned!