old black badge

[burkeg]

I got my black badge and shot IPSC for a couple years in the late '80's but have not shot handgun competitively since (still shoot lots of rifle, shotgun) and long ago sold all handgun shooting equipment. I am wondering if the qualification is still good (20 year lay off)?
One of the reasons I got out at the time was the wholesale equipment race to spend the most and I was "budgeted out". There was only one class at the time.
I wouldn't mind taking the course again but they occur relatively infrequently here in Manitoba.
I am partial to the 1911 so I would be leaning towards "standard" division but was thinking of changing (still have loading components) from 45 to 40 for capacity and cost of loading. I definitely want to stay "major". Any suggestions as to firearm? Cost and availability and parts are concerns...I know STI seems most popular but I am blown away at the initial cost of $3K. Is there a competitive Canadian 'smith that produces a comparable gun from a less expensive base? Is there another competitive product in the $1K range?

 

[Snow Dog]

Start here: http://www.ipscmanitoba.ca/ I think you can take a refresher BB course but don't quote me on that. As for guns, you might want to look for something used. If you are partial to 1911's then you could always run with a single stack - you may not be competitive with the top shooters but you'll still be out there having fun! If you get to a point where the gun is holding you back then you can start looking at investing in a high-end gun. If you are on a tight budget (like me!) then look at Production class - you can get involved and geared up for about a grand all in. Either way, don't worry too much about your gear to start with. Join up, shoot some matches, have fun and see where you're at in relation to the better shooters. When you get to know who the good shooters are in your area you can start chatting with them - they are usually happy to point you in the right direction regarding guns and gear.

 

[Freedom Ventures]

Like Snow Dog says - get hold of your section coordinator, Brad.
He'll get you into a Black Badge course - you will be required to take one again having been out so long. It's a good call on your part since the sport has evolved a lot since the 80s.

My general experience is that any pistolsmith that will build you a "competitive" double stack 1911 pistol will be as much if not more than the STI factory guns, since they do it from parts (and like a car, the sum of the parts is more expensive than the car) and add nice custom touches - but ymmv.

Sean - IPSC Canada RD.