IPSC Newbie - Entry Level Gear

[TwinMustang]

So I'm planning to start IPSC, and I've already spoken to the Black Badge instructor at my local range.

I wanted to know what an affordable entry-level kit would look like?

Is there a requirement to have those separate magazine pouch things that I see from DAA? Does having cloth, paddle type, or molle type mag pouches disqualify me. Do I need one of those fancy stiff inner/outer belts or can I start with something less perfectly suited? I know I have to drop a bunch on a proper holster, but am I able to participate with mag pouches and belts that aren't purpose built for IPSC?

For rifle, can I use an SKS if I really want? Not "will it be competitive," but is it technically doable? I'm finding it difficult to find a decent PCC or semi-auto that doesn't break the bank, since both of the rifles I bought for IPSC in the past are now banned. I've read through the rules book, but there's a lot that just isn't included there.

I don't have a huge budget for updating my gear to participate, so I'm looking at what I can use to start and upgrade later. At the moment, I'm simply not going to be able to buy a non-prohib PCC, so I have to go with buying a new manufacture (like the Akdas Alcor 223) or going with the rifle I have.

On the other hand, is there .22 IPSC? Like, where the rifles and pistols are all .22lr?

Thanks in advance!

 

[RJS 800]

So I'm planning to start IPSC, and I've already spoken to the Black Badge instructor at my local range.

I wanted to know what an affordable entry-level kit would look like?

Is there a requirement to have those separate magazine pouch things that I see from DAA? Does having cloth, paddle type, or molle type mag pouches disqualify me. Do I need one of those fancy stiff inner/outer belts or can I start with something less perfectly suited? I know I have to drop a bunch on a proper holster, but am I able to participate with mag pouches and belts that aren't purpose built for IPSC?

For rifle, can I use an SKS if I really want? Not "will it be competitive," but is it technically doable? I'm finding it difficult to find a decent PCC or semi-auto that doesn't break the bank, since both of the rifles I bought for IPSC in the past are now banned. I've read through the rules book, but there's a lot that just isn't included there.

I don't have a huge budget for updating my gear to participate, so I'm looking at what I can use to start and upgrade later. At the moment, I'm simply not going to be able to buy a non-prohib PCC, so I have to go with buying a new manufacture (like the Akdas Alcor 223) or going with the rifle I have.

On the other hand, is there .22 IPSC? Like, where the rifles and pistols are all .22lr?

Thanks in advance!

Any mag pouches you already have will work to get started. ( Am”””n has cheap CR speed knock offs )
A stiff inner and outer belt makes getting your mags out of them easier thou. Double tap or Freedom ventures will have lots of belt and mag pouch options instock.
IPSC rifle isn’t super popular these days, at least in ontario but a lot of the handgun matches have a mini rifle ( .22lr ) division

 

[TwinMustang]

I have a paddle-type dual mag pouch and matching holster, and 3 mags for my Glock. I know the paddle holster is unacceptable, so I'll source another one that's acceptable. Actually, on that point, do you know if anyone is running a leather holster? I am a leatherworker, and I would happily build a holster for this if it's allowed.

I have an outer belt that holds the pouch and holster no problem. I use it for Airsoft as well, so I know it sits where it's supposed to and doesn't make drawing or changing mags difficult. It is of "real steel" design, so it's not some knock-off garbage for airsoft. I also have a dual mag molle pouch I haven't used yet, but should fit on the belt no problem too.

I just got back from the membership meeting at my local gun club, and I get the impression they're trying to push for a major recruitment campaign for youth. We're a major hunting town, so I suspect we'll see an uptick in IPSC interest too.

I know Alberta considers IPSC an olympic sport for the purpose of exemptions to the transfer ban, but do you know if BC does too? I'll use my Glock if I have to, but I have had my eye on a replacement for several years. If it's possible.

 

[OkayShooter]

You dont need a fancy belt, pouches etc to start IPSC. I started on fobus. Holster for a Glock are not $$$. Padle holsters and pouches can be switch over to belt. Ive seen ppl use their belt holding up their pants. I started IPSC when I was under 18.

They want a holster that will retain if you jump or bend over. They dont like serpa or those style holsters. Or foppy universal..

You will need min 5 magazines.

 

[Sniffer]

So I'm planning to start IPSC, and I've already spoken to the Black Badge instructor at my local range.

I wanted to know what an affordable entry-level kit would look like?

Is there a requirement to have those separate magazine pouch things that I see from DAA? Does having cloth, paddle type, or molle type mag pouches disqualify me. Do I need one of those fancy stiff inner/outer belts or can I start with something less perfectly suited? I know I have to drop a bunch on a proper holster, but am I able to participate with mag pouches and belts that aren't purpose built for IPSC?

For rifle, can I use an SKS if I really want? Not "will it be competitive," but is it technically doable? I'm finding it difficult to find a decent PCC or semi-auto that doesn't break the bank, since both of the rifles I bought for IPSC in the past are now banned. I've read through the rules book, but there's a lot that just isn't included there.

I don't have a huge budget for updating my gear to participate, so I'm looking at what I can use to start and upgrade later. At the moment, I'm simply not going to be able to buy a non-prohib PCC, so I have to go with buying a new manufacture (like the Akdas Alcor 223) or going with the rifle I have.

On the other hand, is there .22 IPSC? Like, where the rifles and pistols are all .22lr?

Thanks in advance!

For gear I use Double Alpha (think I purchased from Fast Toyz), I got the more budget friendly plastic mag pouches and honestly I couldn't see a reason to spend any more.

A lot of folks (most folks) use the DAA Alpha X holster. It is geared for competition and with switchable insert blocks you can switch between pistols and have the same holster / setup for all (although with the Liberals in power this is no longer an issue for many people).

I feel your pain around PCC, I was late to the party after a bad experience years ago with a crappy 9mm rifle that was heavy and unreliable so my PCC sat around for 18 months before I used it (literally). When it was setup / dialled in with a few parts it was awesome and fast became my favourite discipline. But then Liberals. Damn I miss that rifle.

For rifle options now in 9mm at least there is really only the Sterling Arms (which I know zero about except it is black and scary and I know what typically happens to them.....). What I have decided to do is pick up a chassis for my handgun to turn it into a PCC (I got the Kidon version from Zahal). Haven't used it yet but the upsides are that it lets me use gear I already have / am familiar with (ie pistol / belt) and it feels compact / light.

As mentioned this setup allows me to run one belt for everything as I will be using the same mags etc. When I had a dedicated PCC rifle it used different mags (Glock mags) so required different mag pouches which meant a different belt (yes they adjust to accommodate larger / smaller mags but it is a ball ache I couldn't be bother with hence the two belt setup)

 

[Sniffer]

You dont need a fancy belt, pouches etc to start IPSC. I started on fobus. Holster for a Glock are not $$$. Padle holsters and pouches can be switch over to belt. Ive seen ppl use their belt holding up their pants. I started IPSC when I was under 18.

They want a holster that will retain if you jump or bend over. They dont like serpa or those style holsters. Or foppy universal..

You will need min 5 magazines.

This is accurate.

IPSC stages are max 32 rounds which suggests 4 mags would work but I would advise against that (sometimes depending on the stage it makes more sense to dump a part mag while moving or similar and should you have a mag failure or handling whoopsie an extra mag gives you options).

 

[OkayShooter]

But check out the EE or GP. Many are getting out, so they're selling their gear.

Another reason why some run inner and outer belts. Is easier to remove the gun and gear, encase they need to use the bathroom. There has been some ####ter dropped guns.

I say 6 mags are ideal. As one can go in your back pocket to strip, so you can start the stage with 10+1. Then still have 5 mags. As said above, there are stages it quicker to do mag change in between dropping a half full mag, so you can finish without changing mags.

You'll see people mock running thru stages, and planning their moves and mag changes.

I enjoyed shooting IPSC when I was younger.

 

[TwinMustang]

You dont need a fancy belt, pouches etc to start IPSC. I started on fobus. Holster for a Glock are not $$$. Padle holsters and pouches can be switch over to belt. Ive seen ppl use their belt holding up their pants. I started IPSC when I was under 18.

They want a holster that will retain if you jump or bend over. They dont like serpa or those style holsters. Or foppy universal..

You will need min 5 magazines.

I'll need to buy a couple more mags then. I'm looking at the fobus now. Is it just the holsters with the button over the trigger that aren't allowed? Is the retention on a Fobus purely compression, like a water-formed leather holster would do? Does anyone use leather?

For gear I use Double Alpha (think I purchased from Fast Toyz), I got the more budget friendly plastic mag pouches and honestly I couldn't see a reason to spend any more.

A lot of folks (most folks) use the DAA Alpha X holster. It is geared for competition and with switchable insert blocks you can switch between pistols and have the same holster / setup for all (although with the Liberals in power this is no longer an issue for many people).

I feel your pain around PCC, I was late to the party after a bad experience years ago with a crappy 9mm rifle that was heavy and unreliable so my PCC sat around for 18 months before I used it (literally). When it was setup / dialled in with a few parts it was awesome and fast became my favourite discipline. But then Liberals. Damn I miss that rifle.

For rifle options now in 9mm at least there is really only the Sterling Arms (which I know zero about except it is black and scary and I know what typically happens to them.....). What I have decided to do is pick up a chassis for my handgun to turn it into a PCC (I got the Kidon version from Zahal). Haven't used it yet but the upsides are that it lets me use gear I already have / am familiar with (ie pistol / belt) and it feels compact / light.

As mentioned this setup allows me to run one belt for everything as I will be using the same mags etc. When I had a dedicated PCC rifle it used different mags (Glock mags) so required different mag pouches which meant a different belt (yes they adjust to accommodate larger / smaller mags but it is a ball ache I couldn't be bother with hence the two belt setup)

For gear I use Double Alpha (think I purchased from Fast Toyz), I got the more budget friendly plastic mag pouches and honestly I couldn't see a reason to spend any more.

A lot of folks (most folks) use the DAA Alpha X holster. It is geared for competition and with switchable insert blocks you can switch between pistols and have the same holster / setup for all (although with the Liberals in power this is no longer an issue for many people).

I feel your pain around PCC, I was late to the party after a bad experience years ago with a crappy 9mm rifle that was heavy and unreliable so my PCC sat around for 18 months before I used it (literally). When it was setup / dialled in with a few parts it was awesome and fast became my favourite discipline. But then Liberals. Damn I miss that rifle.

For rifle options now in 9mm at least there is really only the Sterling Arms (which I know zero about except it is black and scary and I know what typically happens to them.....). What I have decided to do is pick up a chassis for my handgun to turn it into a PCC (I got the Kidon version from Zahal). Haven't used it yet but the upsides are that it lets me use gear I already have / am familiar with (ie pistol / belt) and it feels compact / light.

As mentioned this setup allows me to run one belt for everything as I will be using the same mags etc. When I had a dedicated PCC rifle it used different mags (Glock mags) so required different mag pouches which meant a different belt (yes they adjust to accommodate larger / smaller mags but it is a ball ache I couldn't be bother with hence the two belt setup)

Are there any restrictions to mounting and unmounting your pistol from the frame during a match? I'm looking at a couple chassis options that are far cheaper than buying a PCC. I'm a little shocked at the overall cost of just a holster. I suppose it's pretty niche, but still. $240 CAD for just a holster? NUTS!

But check out the EE or GP. Many are getting out, so they're selling their gear.

Another reason why some run inner and outer belts. Is easier to remove the gun and gear, encase they need to use the bathroom. There has been some ####ter dropped guns.

I say 6 mags are ideal. As one can go in your back pocket to strip, so you can start the stage with 10+1. Then still have 5 mags. As said above, there are stages it quicker to do mag change in between dropping a half full mag, so you can finish without changing mags.

You'll see people mock running thru stages, and planning their moves and mag changes.

I enjoyed shooting IPSC when I was younger.

Understood, I'll check the EE. I have guns to post for sale anyway, and I believe I need at least a couple good purchases on there before CGN will allow me to post. Thanks for the tips! I would likely have a regular belt under my duty belt anyway, but I'll look into an inner belt too.

 

[OkayShooter]

Yeah just the retention over the trigger ones. You can use a leather holster but has to be able to hold the gun without falling out and if required a thumb strap to hold it in. It needs to be secured before stand by. So you cannot un clip it before.

You can find the rule book online.

But the black badge teacher you talked to, should be able to answer any questions you have. Might even have gear to lend you.

If you dont want to do inner or new belt setup. Just get keepers. Wear it over your pants belt. What I do with PPC.

 

[JBD]

Just run what you brung. It was years before I had all the Gucci gear and that is only because I won it in a door prize. When I was setting up my children I just bought some knockoffs from Aliexpress

 

[DiMP]

I took my BB last year with a guy running an old 1911 in a homemade leather holster. I can't remember the exact number, but there needs to be a certain amount of retention "strength" required so your pistol can't fall out while running. As far as mag pouches, they are much less picky. Whatever you have should work. A dropped mag isn't a penalty (careful picking it up though as you don't want to break 90 or flag yourself while doing so), and dropped mags can get gritty with sand/dirt and malfunction possibly.

 

[Sniffer]

I'll need to buy a couple more mags then. I'm looking at the fobus now. Is it just the holsters with the button over the trigger that aren't allowed? Is the retention on a Fobus purely compression, like a water-formed leather holster would do? Does anyone use leather?



Are there any restrictions to mounting and unmounting your pistol from the frame during a match? I'm looking at a couple chassis options that are far cheaper than buying a PCC. I'm a little shocked at the overall cost of just a holster. I suppose it's pretty niche, but still. $240 CAD for just a holster? NUTS!


Understood, I'll check the EE. I have guns to post for sale anyway, and I believe I need at least a couple good purchases on there before CGN will allow me to post. Thanks for the tips! I would likely have a regular belt under my duty belt anyway, but I'll look into an inner belt too.

Never tried mounting and unmounting but it is pretty easy and so long as it is done in the designated safety area you should be good to go.

 

[AlphaCharlieDelta]

Traditionally any bucket holster as long as it is not a Serpa will do. Having it connected directly to the belt helps with your draw, and the belt needs to be a 2 piece belt with the inner belt must go through your belt loops, the second outer belt attaches with velcro to the inner belt. As for mag pouches, I would recommend staying away from the cloth pouches, plastic double stack blade tech pouches work and are pretty affordable. Blade tech is a good place to start for the holster and mag pouches, and get one of the Double Tap Sports belts.

 

[cptseawolf]

DoubleTap is your friend. Check for sales and discount codes around holidays etc.

I'm running their belt system and some black scorpion pouches that I got on sale.

I'm running a normal gray fox holster.

5 mags is fine.