A little over a year since I got into firearms that I finally took the plunge and participated in my first IDPA match, albeit at the club-level.
Well, I actually got into IDPA late last September when I participated in "practice matches/clinics" at the Piru Range (once every 1- or 2-months).
Unfortunately when the IDPA matches were retired from Piru, so were the clinics. And then it got really hectic at work and at home; I was left with nothing else but live fire at indoor ranges and dry fire at home. Oh yes, there were a couple of tactical-specific classes with ITTS in Angeles; and a GSSF match (with a G19) last April.
So, about a couple of weeks back - I finally took the plunge and bought a G34 with a Blue Label coupon. And over the weekend, participated in my first match at the Prado range:
YouTube playlist of ALL stages (in the order I had to take them):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAsx...LZ1ls6&index=1
Yeah, in spite of properly cleaning and lubing the G34 the night before the match, it went through several malfunctions (I had to do a quick strip & clean & lube mid-stages). Could it be my technique? Or, the lube wasn't enough for conditions (WAY HOT at Prado over the weekend)...? Or, it was just a "new" pistol?
Anyways, I finished with a result of 50/92 for Combined, 27/54 for the SSP division and 8/31 for Unclassified shooters. There were a couple of stages where I ranked in the Top #10 (#2 and #4). I would believe that this is a decent finish for a "new" shooter; but then, I try to be diligent in my practice (dry fire / dot torture drills) - is this the usual expectation? Or should I make changes to my routine, either because they are NOT effective enough (or I might not be athletically-inclined)...?
... Regardless, looking through footage, I believe there are lots that need work:
- First shot from draw at distance (say 10-yards) - too long for me to get a sight picture
- NPA (Natural point of aim) constrant transition from target back to front sight
- Fine-tuning the grip i can't seem to get the firm/stable grip when compared from low ready
Regardless, this indeed way more FUN than static shooting...!!! Except for the heat, I think I'm hooked!
That said, early this year I told myself I'd make Marksman by the EOY, but then someone from another forums commented that I shoot aim for something higher. He adds that if someone is breathing and have some familiarity with firearms - Marksman would be a given. Thoughts?
Cheers!!!
_