Frequently Asked Questions

Is shooting an IDPA match safe?

Although the concept of shooting is inherently dangerous, the IDPA and its affiliated clubs pride themselves on their safety record. Safety is the first, last and middle rule of all activities associated with the IDPA. Each match is run by trained and certified IDPA Safety Officers. No one is allowed to handle their weapon during a match loaded or unloaded without being under the direct supervision of a Safety Officer. (Participants are allowed to handle their unloaded weapons at a designated “safe area,” but under no circumstances is the weapon allowed to be loaded or is ammunition allowed in the “safe area.”

Anyone witnessing an unsafe act, should immediately notify a safety officer, the Match Director, or an employee of the range where they are participating. There is nothing more important than everyone’s safety

Who can shoot an IPDA Match?

Anyone over the age of 21 who is a safe shooter and can legally obtain, posses and use a handgun is eligible to shoot in an IDPA match.  You do not have to be totally proficient with your weapon, just know how to use it safely!

Junior shooters (age 12 to 21) can also participate as long as their parent or legal guardian is participating in the match and is present while their charge is shooting. Shiloh range rules only allow shooters from 14 years old and up to enter the range, so the range rule supersedes the IDPA rule for this purpose.

The Shiloh Tactical Shooters will allow Junior Shooters to participate using small caliber handguns (.380 cal, 22lr, etc). Juniors who shoot the non-sanctioned calibers will be scored just at the other shooters are, but the scores will not be “official” in any capacity. The weapon must be in good working order, and the shooter must have an approved holster for the weapon they are using.

See the "New Shooters" section for more details.