What is IDPA

IDPA stands for “International Defensive Pistol Association”. As stated on the official IDPA website: “IDPA as a sport is quite simply the use of practical equipment including full charge service ammunition to solve simulated “real world” self-defense scenarios. Shooters competing in IDPA events are required to use practical handguns and holsters that are truly suitable for self-defense use. No “competition only” equipment is permitted in IDPA matches since the main goal is to test the skill and ability of an individual, not his equipment or gamesmanship”.

Who Competes in IDPA

IDPA membership and matches are open to all people who can legally own a handgun, regardless of occupation, race, gender or religion. Members come from all walks of life and represent all skill levels within the shooting sports.

Classifications

In order for shooters to be able to compete with their peers, IDPA competitors are divided into classifications within each division based upon their skill level. IDPA has a very quick and easy method of classifying shooters. As an affiliated IDPA club, Lake County IDPA runs frequent classifiers for you to shoot to help determine your skill level and initial classification. Learn more about IDPA classifications.

If you’ve never shot an IDPA match before, we strongly encourage you to visit the IDPA website and learn more about the shooting discipline and the necessary equipment needed to participate.