KSTG Match at NRA Range Dec 27
Todd,
I enjoyed shooting the stages and classifier and here is my feedback:
1) I like the tape on the floor to indicate cover. However, I could see how this might limit stage design for targets that are at an acute angle to cover. Perhaps you could have different strips of tape for each target, but then stage setup gets more complicated.
2) I like the 3x5 white cards for the head shots...puts emphasis on getting into the brain chamber, but makes shooting fast much harder. OK by me, though.
3) I like the scoring system...it seems to put the emphasis where its needed.
4) I liked the simplicity of the classifier, but I actually missed the weak hand and strong hand only shots.
5) I kinda don't care about the mag drop rules...I can do it either way.
6) I like the rule about not crowding cover...that is the way I like to shoot anyway.
A) I like the consistency of an IDPA match where I know the gun is unloaded at the end of a COF. I do not like leaving the gun loaded and trying to remember how many I may or may not have in the mag. I recommend unloading the gun every time.
B) I don't like the 5" barrel restriction. The equipment rule should be like the IDPA rule: If it fits inside the box and weights less than X, where X is defined by Division, then its legal. If you want to make the box smaller or lower the weight, that is fine, but barrel length should not be a factor...size and weight should be. Beyond that, there are just too many Glock 34's in the hands of competitors. If you want this to catch on and gain political influence, you need to include Glock 34 shooters. Or, as I suggested, define a COMPACT DIVISION....which I still think is a huge opportunity.
C) For lowlight COF like the first stage, there should be a way to balance the advantage of gun-mounted lights with handheld lights or no light. Maybe add .5sec penalty for each target shot with a gun-mounted light?...don't know, but seems to be too much advantage there.
I think this experimental program is great, but in the end I think these ideas need to take root in the IDPA Tiger Teams and need to become a part of the changes coming to IDPA shooting sports. I just don't see KSTG being different enough that it can become a significant differentiator in competitive shooting. I do think it can act as a lab for trying out new ideas, which I am always willing to try.
But trust me on the Glock 34 thing.
CC