BigGameHunt.net Hunting Forums

[BunnySlayer]

There are two schools of thought. Is competing with a handgun I.E.IPSC, USPSA, IDPA good training or does it instill bad habits? JIm Cirillo, the one time leader of the N.Y.P.D.'s famous stake out squad and veteran of something like 19 gunfights said the guys in his squad that did the best were either hunters or competition shooters. They both had experience shooting under pressure. I personally think it's great training as you get the pressure factor. Gun handling, marksmanship. Practice doing things like drawing smooth, fast and safe. Shooting on the move and reloading under pressure all within a framework of rules with consequences for breaking those rules.

There are those who think it instills bad habits such as moving too quickly through stages. Unrealistic scenarios and not utilizing cover and concealment. Do you compete? If so, what is your discipline and your thoughts?

[CVC]

I don't compete and have never thought about this before, so this is just my 2 cents. It seems that competition would help because you're having to shoot accurately under pressure.

I think anything that involves shooting accurately is going to help in a gunfight. Now, should would it help to add some realistic training - most likely, but even without it, competition has to help compared to no competition or training.

[ChesterGolf]

I shoot IPSC which is the equivalent to the USPSA and I truly believe that competing in action shooting is excellent training. Being able to rapidly fire accurate shots under pressure is a great lesson to learn. As well, you practice drills such as safe mag changing, shooting while prone/kneeling/through windows/doors/etc. which can relate to real world situations. Furthermore, competitive shooters usually practice more and that alone can't be bad. :thumbsup1:

[remington]

I'm LE and shoot IDPA. It is excellent training so long as you dont get to caught up in the GAME. I compete just like I training an train my guys. It may be a tad slower but they are good, solid proven fundamentals to keeping people alive as oposed to beating a clock. It's fun, great training, and put you under a differnt type of stress than normal training or qual.

[macro_grp02]

I always wanted to kick myself for thinking that I didn't compete in my earlier years. I can rate myself as a relatively experienced hunter but I have been with guys that have gone through competitive shooting and they can really shoot. I was impressed and even had trouble keeping up on what they can do. So if there's any chance of competing, grab the opportunity so that you can excel under pressure.

[BunnySlayer]

macro_grp02 wrote: I always wanted to kick myself for thinking that I didn't compete in my earlier years. I can rate myself as a relatively experienced hunter but I have been with guys that have gone through competitive shooting and they can really shoot. I was impressed and even had trouble keeping up on what they can do. So if there's any chance of competing, grab the opportunity so that you can excel under pressure.

Macro,

It's never too late! One of the regulars at our gun clubs monthly tactical pistol match is in his 80's and a veteran WWII paratrooper. I admit we use a sundial instead of a pact timer whan he's up but he gets out there and does it. The bottom line I guess is I truly wouldn't want him shooting at me it things were for real. He may not win but he can sure protect his home of need be. If you're above ground it aint too late.