If you are brand new to guns, then spend some time shooting and getting to know your guns. If you are already a competent and safe shooter and feel ready to compete, first step is to get your Black Badge qualification. That is a prerequisite to shoot IPSC in Canada in any discipline. Check with your province’s IPSC section online about Black Badge courses in your area…alternatively, if your club is affiliated with IPSC, check with your IPSC Rep or just show up at a match or practice and ask how to participate…Hopefully your club calendar lists these events.
Next is gear…any pump or semi shotgun will do for starting out. If you want to be competitive, for semi’s the Beretta 1301 or Benelli M2 SP are my faves. The M2 SP is IPSC ready out of the box, you will probably want to do some mods on the 1301. As for pump, the Benelli Nova Speed was specifically designed for IPSC and is an awesome gun for competition. As for shell caddies, lots of options there but remember for IPSC, chest rigs and bandoliers are not allowed. Caddies and carriers must be at waist level so a good belt and whatever caddie system you prefer or can afford. I started with Safariland 6 ups, later moved to Invictus Practical 8’s and now use Magload Nexus 32. These are vastly different price points so you want to be prudent…for starting out, the Invictus are a good mid range option - you can always upgrade later.
Like everything with guns, competitive shooting can be a rabbit hole…While I am always encouraged and excited to see new shooters at our Black Badge courses and IPSC and 3 Gun matches, I always caution it’s best to try the sport with as much gear as you have already as possible rather than wait until your gear is perfect…Take it from those of us who have been doing this for many years…you will always be looking for that next piece of kit to make your setup perfect.
Just jump in and enjoy the ride…