IPSC: The Nubilous World of Target Arrays

It's always been a murky subject, coming up with target arrays that are acceptable to IPSC. For example, the target below does seem to be impractical, however those that have had to find innovative ways to present targets indoors, find that it is a great space saver, and is easy to score.

I'm not arguing for the use of any particular target arrays, simply that it has always been a murky field, where you usually only find out after the fact that an array wasn't acceptable. Well, no longer.

As of July 2013, IPSC has issued a 13 page document entitled "IPSC Target Array Handbook - June 2013", which gives you clear guidelines as to what is an acceptable array. This is certainly a handy addition to any MD or RM's toolbox. For my USPSA readers, please note these arrays do not apply to you.,

USPSA: 2013 Utah State Championship

I spent the last weekend in Salt Lake City, Utah, competing in the USPSA State Championship. Some of you might wonder why, given that it is one helluva trip from Canada. Well, there are many reasons. I like the style of matches, I like the people, it's very affordable and, besides, I won my class the previous year.

This year I happened to be squadded with Christopher and Leighton Oosthuisen, who also happen to have a South African connection. Okay, it wasn't serendipitous. I had witnessed these two compete at the USPSA Area 1 Championship, when I was working as a match official, and when I saw that I could be squadded with them, I took the opportunity. I didn't regret it.

The match was it's usual style; fast, high round count, plenty of steel. I was amazed at how much better I shot, simply because I had a few hard charging competitors on the squad. I ended up achieving 80% of the winning performance, and winning my class again. Check out my video below.

   

While you're at it, also check out the match video of the Open Division Utah State Champion, Christopher Oosthuisen. Enjoy.

IPSC Rules: When To Cover Targets With Transparent Plastic?

The Canadian Nationals 2013 was a wet affair. We had to contend with a lot of rain. I don't know what it is with 2013; I've shot more in the rain and snow this year than ever before, and it's not without it's problems.

 

What is the rule regarding covering the targets with transparent plastic bags?

 

"Rule 2.3.5: During inclement weather, the  Range  Master  may  order  that  paper  targets be fitted with transparent protective covers and/or overhead shelters, and this order is not subject to appeal by competitors. Such items must be applied and remain fitted to all affected targets for the same period of time, until the order is rescinded by the Range Master."

 

The above rule applies to both IPSC and USPSA.

 

I raise this issue for a reason. I was the CRO on a stage, which meant that I was responsible for ensuring that targets were covered. One particular squad, consisting of top caliber competitors, was on the receiving end of the "call to cover" order.

 

 

The call to cover targets came through with the instruction, "Cover as soon as possible". I am fully aware that competitors do not like engaging targets with plastic covers, since it makes it more difficult to "see your hits". It was raining fairly heavily at the time, so I made the decision to cover the targets in the midst of a squad. One of the competitors was facing a reshoot, and was upset, as were the remaining squad mates. The verbal exchange, which is usually of the bullying variety in order to get you to respond in favour of the competitors, insisted that the rules specified I had to cover the targets between squads.

 

Of course this is nonsense. The key component of the rule is "for the same period of time". Let me explain why. In this particular event we had 16 stages. It is highly unlikely that any two stages start at the same time, let alone 16 stages. Actually, the probability of 16 stages starting at the same time is 16^2, or 1 in 256. It is for this reason that we cover when the order comes through, if we are to approximately cover all targets for the same period of time. So you cover as soon as possible. Naturally their whining was ignored.

 

Then, in conclusion, make sure you're equipped for the rain. Have a raincoat, umbrella, something to cover your gear, a towel, hand warmers and perhaps a change of shoes.

Benchmarking: Who do you benchmark yourself against?

How good are you actually? Do you benchmark yourself against your local peers? Do you strive for a Provincial/State ranking, or do you look further afield, like National or International?

 

 

I know we all strive to improve, and we do this by comparing ourselves to our immediate peers. It's important to know how we rank. That's why Qualifier and Slot matches always get a better turn out than regular club matches; rankings. But what about the 15% or so, of serious competitors? Is a Provincial ranking important? Not really, because you get to compete at a Provincial and National level anyway, regardless. And it's really your National ranking that counts, if you're interested in seeing how you stack up against the country's best. But what if you want to benchmark yourself against the world's best? Well, you could shoot a World Championship, and deduce your ranking from that. But if you're not talented enough to earn a slot at the World Shoot, don't panic, a new service is at hand.

 

Recently I came across a site that is attempting to rank IPSC and USPSA competitors, using past performance. It has potential, and certainly provides a service that has been lacking. It's called IPSCRating.com. Take a look, you may be humbled. If you don't find your name on the list, it means, quite simply, you don't shoot enough Level III matches.

IPSC Equipment: All The Other Stuff - Part II

Okay, so this is a continuation of an article I wrote some time ago. Since that time I've competed in easily 50 matches, in different countries, and at different levels. I've also officiated at everything from small local matches to large national competitions. So I have a better grip on what "other stuff" you may need. 

 

Range Bags

 

You may recall I started out with a conventional range bag. But it didn't accommodate my every growing list of stuff, like space for spare parts, paperwork, shoes, kneepads, liquids. Now there are two schools of thought; either you're a minimalist, and you basically walk between stages with nothing other than ammo in a small bag, and perhaps a few additional items; or you haul everything with you. I fall in the latter category. I like to have a chair, umbrella, rain gear, extra shoes, a cooler, food etc. I figure if I'm there for the day, I want to be comfortable. This meant that my range bag needed an upgrade, but I didn't enjoy hauling all this stuff around. What was I to do? Well, as far as range bags were concerned, there was only one option; the DAA Range Pack Pro. 

 

It is a great piece of equipment. It holds my belt, both guns, shoes, ammo, paperwork, water, spare parts, tools, magazines, rain gear, a chair, basically everything. But it is pricey at $200.00 plus shipping. Then you have to haul this thing around. At least it has shoulder straps. Personally I prefer an easier option.

 

Hand Carts

 

My first option was the DAA Foldable Hand Cart, which is $60.00 plus shipping. I actually acquired one from Canadian Tire for CA$70.00. It works a treat, but it a little short, if you are taller. It has great wheels, and otherwise does an excellent job. Costco sells a similar one for a lot less, but it is rubbish, and the wheels are simply too small to handle rough terrain.

 

The only hassle with the cart is that you have to offload everything at every stage, use what you need, and then pack it all up again. I continue to use my cart for indoor events, where you don't have to haul as much stuff, but I noticed a trend at the larger US matches, and switched for outdoor competitions; a wagon.

 

 

 

 

Wagons

 

Yes, the ultimate in gear hauling devices. I acquired mine from a sports shop somewhere, for about $70.00,  a bargain at the price. They are simply awesome, and I've never regretted the decision. These are available from various outlets, most commonly Costco. I was an early adopter and I've noticed many more of these things around. You can comfortably carry around your cooler, range bag, chairs, etc. They fold flat, and are very easy to use. You no longer have to unpack and repack, since everything is easily accessible. But beware of the lazy team mate that dumps his crap on your wagon.

 

Okay, I must admit, I did "upgrade" mine. I couldn't help myself, and it was for pure vanity reasons. It's the big daddy of wagons, which I acquired from Frontgate for $200.00. It isn't any better, or more functional. It is just more rugged looking and more spacious. Take your pick.

 

 

Rain Gear

 

It is surprising how many times you end up shooting, and working in the rain. Make sure you have an umbrella. A cheap golf umbrella will do the trick. Also, keep a raincoat handy. This helps with your working stints. For shooting, I use a DAA Shooting Vest. It fits in a way that allows me to still access my equipment, and also has a hoodie. It provides warmth and keeps me dry. But I notice they don't stock them anymore. Too bad. 

 

Finally, don't forget the bug spray and sun screen.

2013 Canadian IPSC Nationals: Successfully Concluded

This past week saw the successful conclusion of the Canadian IPSC Nationals. This was an event that attracted over 320 competitors. I was there, of course, but given the remoteness of the site (for Albertans at least) I had chosen to volunteer as a CRO for the week, which helped offset some of the costs. This meant that I shot the pre-match. Being a CRO, at an event of this size, isn't without it's issues, and shooting the pre-match is also something else. Both are stories for another time. The results are viewable here.

 

For those of you wondering what the stages were like, here is a good depiction, courtesy of one of the competitors. Enjoy.

 

 

And here we have a friend, test running my gun.

 

 

 

 

Part IV: Returning To Canada By Car

So you've successfully concluded your USPSA shooting matches in the US, and are returning to Canada. What can you expect? Well, it's similar to entering the US, except it has it's own documentation requirements. As they say in Thailand, "Same, same, but different." Don't be one of those folks that fixates on entering the USA, only to neglect your return home.

 

 

Just like travelling around Canada, domestically, you require paperwork. Here is the checklist for returning to Canada:

 

1. Passport

2. Authorisation To Transport (ATT or STATT)

3. Firearm license (PAL or POL)

4. Registration certificates for each firearm in your possession

 

Occasionally the Canadian authorities are skittish when you declare firearms, however the vast majority of times it is a relatively painless process, as long as you are prepared. Again, I hand over all documentation immediately. This gets the declaration out of the way, leaving no surprises. Quite often you will be required to have the firearms examined, which usually necessitates a visit to the inspection booth. 

 

Some other useful information:

 

You can travel with somebody else's firearm, as long as it was declared on your Form 6, and as long as you are in possession of the registration certificate.

 

Sometimes the Canadian authorities will ask you to present evidence that you attended a match. Naturally this isn't a precondition to returning, but compliance is easy, so simply present a copy of the Match Invitation.

 

You will find that the more frequently you travel, the easier the border crossings become, as you establish a track record.

 

Be familiar with the legislation, both US and Canadian, regarding returning with any firearm related purchases (parts, components, ammunition etc). These are heavily restricted. It is common practice for the US to hold check-stops just before the Canadian border. If you are caught in possession of unlawful items, there can be dire consequences. In this regard, be aware of any recent changes to the legislation, and keep copies of any paperwork to verify this.

 

You can return with the ammunition you originally entered the US with, in fact you must. This includes the spent brass, as these items are declared on your Form 6NIA.

 

You can use photocopies of your registration certificates. The originals are not required. I usually make multiple copies, and ensure I have copies in abundance, just in case I lose something.

Plan your trip, and ensure you use border crossings that are listed on your ATT, otherwise acquire a STATT to cover any alternative routes.

Part III: Crossing The USA Border By Car

Okay, so the day has arrived, you're all packed and ready to go. Make sure you not only have the paperwork to get into the USA, but that you also have the correct paperwork to get back into Canada, or wherever you're from. Also, make sure you have made the necessary prior arrangements.

 

You definitely need to get a Match Invitation from the Match Director. This can be in the form of an email, and it will be asked for at the border. It is also good practice to attach a copy of the match, if it is available, and to have the Match Director's contact details handy. Also, it's a good idea to research the firearm laws in the States you will be travelling through, so as to familiarise yourself with the various do's and don'ts.  

 

The checklist for entering the USA is as follows:

 

1. Passport

2. Approved Form 6NIA

3. Match Invitation

4. Match Copy

5. Accommodation Details

6. Match Director contact details

7. Ammunition not exceeding the amount specified on the Form 6

 

We probably all have ways in which we engage with the Border authorities. In my experience it is easier if you declare that you are travelling with firearms upfront. I do this by handing my passport to the Officer, together with the Match Invitation, Match Copy and Approved Form 6NIA. Make sure the Form 6 is on top. Usually this results in the conversation immediately centering on the firearms and the purpose of the trip. It is usually a painless process, but be prepared to have to park and go inside for further questions, and to have the firearms inspected.

 

Of course, it goes without saying that you should be courteous and don't travel with any forbidden products, like fruit, meat or Cuban cigars.

 

Part II: Documentation Requirements

First things first. You'll need to have an Approved ATF Form 6NIA. This is basically a document that you complete, and submit to the US Department of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), where they presumably conduct a background check. If you are approved, the same form is returned to you, with Approved endorsed thereon. You can get a copy of the Form 6NIA by following the link.

ATF Form 6NIA

 

Now, in order for your Form 6 application to be successful, you will need a few things. If it is for a specific match, you will need to submit a Match Invitation with the application. This you can get from the Match Director. But then be warned, your Form 6 may only be approved for the match. If you are a regular competitor, you would be better off submitting the appropriate support documents, to get approval for 12 months. What I do is submit my USPSA membership and credentials, as well as a hunting license from a US State. This allows me to get a 12 month approval. I know it has been suggested that the hunting license requirement has fallen away, but until the Form changes, I continue to follow the old process. The best place for an online hunting license is Alaska. A small game license is US$20. Of course, to shoot any matches larger than a club match, you will require a USPSA membership. This is easy to acquire, and can be done online.

Once you have your USPSA membership and your hunting license, you can submit your Form 6 application, along with a copy of your PAL (If you're Canadian). It is always better to submit enough supporting documents, to assist your application. Send the application via fax. The number is listed on the Form 6, and remember to provide a return fax number. The process usually takes a couple of weeks, but can take as long as 6-8 weeks. So plan in advance.

Part I: Ever Considered Competing In The USA?

So, you enjoy shooting IPSC, but there simply aren't enough matches to attend, and you're considering competing in the USA, but it seems daunting. Sound like you?

 

Well this is your DIY manual, which will cover everything, including ATF paperwork, match registration, how to find matches and clubs, match invitations, crossing the border, flying with handguns, and preparing your equipment. Follow closely.

IPSC Rules: Should No-Shoot Targets Be Listed In The Written Stage Briefing?

This has some background.

 

A recent Level II match had a competitor shoot a No-Shoot target. He argued that the WSB did not specifically highlight No-Shoot targets, and therefore how was he to know they were penalty targets. Something to that effect.

 

The match director responded by saying that a No-Shoot is not a target, and that it is not mandatory to list No-Shoots. This was confirmed by an individual who was involved in obtaining IPSC sanctioning for a Level III match.

 

I disagreed as follows:

 

"A No-Shoot IS a target, and the current IPSC rulebook specifically says this in the glossary. The only time one differentiates between the two, is where a specific rule makes mention of the two different types of targets.

 

Target(s) - A term that can include both scoring target(s) and no-shoot(s) unless a Rule (e.g.  4.1.3) differentiates between them.

 

Therefore, it is not unreasonable to expect the stage briefing to include a tally of no-shoots, given that Rule 3.2.1 does not differentiate between the type of targets [snip]"

 

I also took the issue to Global Village, to find some clarity. This is the response that I received:

 

"The RM was correct. It is not necessary to state the number of No Shoots in the Written Stage Briefing. We include regular targets, because they are things you are supposed to shoot, so you need to know how many to seek during your walkthrough. It also impacts the production of score sheets.

 

Under Rule 3.2.1, "Targets (type and number)" means how many paper targets, poppers and plates to shoot.

 

The Glossary definition of Targets is an overlooked remnant of a short period of time when No-Shoots were called Penalty Targets. We will remove the definition from the 2015 Rulebooks."

 

Fair enough, except this past weekend yielded an experience that makes me think that listing No-Shoot targets in the WSB should be considered good practice.

 

Whilst viewing the stages for the 32 Special, I noticed that the No-Shoots were the same colour (white) as the metal targets. This prompted me to suggest that I place a conspicuous X across the face of each No-Shoot, which I duly did.

 

Rule 4.1.3 No-Shoots must be clearly marked with a conspicuous "X" or be of a single, unique color different from scoring targets throughout a match or tournament (i.e. if no-shoots are yellow, they must all be yellow in a match or tournament).

 

You would think that was the end of it, but no.

 

 

 

I have included two pictures as examples. During the aforesaid match I was approached by more than one person, asking if the targets with "X's" were actually No-Shoots, or merely simulated hard cover. At the time I didn't respond with clarity because the rule is clear, but upon reflection I can see how competitors can become confused.

 

Firstly, we seldom shoot matches with No-Shoots marked with "X's". Secondly, the WSB did not list any No-Shoots. Therefore, I would contend that, even though it is "officially" not necessary to list No-Shoots in the WSB, it should be considered good practice. Will it? That's unlikely. It's likely that there will be as many opinions as there are Range Masters.

 

A Premier Match: The Brooks Annual 32 Special

If you are a regular competitor on the IPSC Alberta circuit, and you didn't choose to attend the Brooks Annual 32 Special, you need to have your head read, or you're just a party pooper, because this is a premier event.

Until recently, this was an event that was included in the "official" list of matches. But for reasons only known to them, our elected officials decided Brooks wasn't "playing ball", and so they were taken off the 2013 match schedule. It was a bullshit decision, no doubt, and everybody knows it.

 

However, the goods news is that Brooks has forged ahead, and continues to add value to the sport on there own. This past weekend they hosted their annual 32 Special, and it was fantastic (check out the video below), as usual. But they went even further than usual. There was a prize table on both days of the competition, consisting of all sorts of goodies, including handguns.

 

 



Also, a big plus is the addition of a "Shooting House"; a house like structure that we can use for all sorts of scenarios, and a first in Alberta. Excellent stuff, and I look forward to helping shoot it to pieces. Here's one that gets used extensively in Utah, which I thoroughly enjoy.

Anyway, guys, you make me proud. Keep up the good work. I also, very much, enjoyed the BBQ on the Saturday night, which gave us the opportunity to socialise. Nice stuff. Also, thanks to the hardworking crew, who kept the quality of the match high (I couldn't fault anything), as well as the sponsors.

 

If any of you want to know if my shooting skills have improved, just have a look at some of my earlier videos ... lol.

 

   

US Firearms Components Export Value Amended For Canadians

The fact that firearm enthusiasts couldn't import certain firearm components, merely because the value exceeded US$100, has always been the bane of their existence. This has always created the situation where you had to either pay exorbitant export licensing fees, or ludicrously inflated prices.

 

I mean, who hasn't been faced with a dealer restriction as follows:

 

"Overseas orders please note that firearm parts on orders over $100.00 may also require import and export licenses for overseas orders."

 

Well, things are about to change. The long awaited amendment is now official, and I have included links to the official paperwork to confirm this.

 

It would be in you interests to keep a copy of the paperwork, as I am sure it will take time for this amendment to filter through to dealers and border personnel alike.

 

ITAR Firearms Components Export Requirements - Specifically 123.17

 

ITAR Canadian Firearms Components Exemption Amendment - Effective 8 July 2012 

IPSC Equipment: Shoes

Perusing my older equipment articles, reveals that I haven't discussed shoes. Is this even important? Well, it depends. If you've invested a substantial amount in your equipment, in the continual search for improvement, why would you overlook your traction? I found that normal track shoes, or runners, weren't effective on wet grass or loose gravel, so I decided to explore what my options were.

 

Shoes aren't really marketed to the IPSC community. I found a single type, cleats, that were sold on an IPSC website, and observed what some of the local shooters wore, and bought my first pair.

Nike Land Sharks

 

 

Fairly common amongst IPSC competitors.

 

These are affordable, at anywhere between US$40 - 70. My first pair, black and white, lasted me two seasons, and certainly provided me with far more grip than I had experienced before. There are shortcomings, though. They are useless on hard, smooth surfaces. So if you are shooting indoors, or a stage has an obstacle, like a smooth ramp or stairs, then your traction is seriously compromised. Nevertheless, I liked them and eventually colour co-ordinated mine, to match my every growing red gear. However they are not comfortable for all-day wear, as they have a very rigid structure. So I found myself wearing running shoes, during my working stints, until I lost my footing severely, whilst RO'ing a competitor.

 

 

That being said, they remain part of my equipment, with me using them for muddy surfaces, so as to not ruin my more expensive shoes, or where solid traction is a must. They're also easier to clean.

 

Because of the nature of our climate, I find we tend to shoot a lot indoors, and cleats weren't a good option. Neither were traditional running shoes, which didn't handle standing on spent brass too well. This resulted in me looking for shoes that could be used for indoors; in other words, had a soft sole to handle smooth surfaces, but which were also aggressive enough to provide traction where spent brass was in abundance.

 

Salomon Speedcross III

 

Increasingly common amongst IPSC competitors, particularly at the larger matches. Receives good reviews on IPSC blogs.

These shoes are really nice, albeit a bit more expensive at US$120 - 150. They are also very narrow, giving you a tight fit. I like the lacing system. It's easier and more convenient than traditional laces. They seem well constructed and offer very good traction on smooth hard surfaces. I haven't used mine outdoors all that much, but because of the softer sole, you can expect these shoes to wear out faster. They are also comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time. The sole padding seems reasonable, and standing on brass isn't uncomfortable. They're really nice, and are available in all sorts of colours.



 

Inov8 Mudcaws

 

Not as common, but well reviewed on IPSC blogs. 

I've always known about these shoes, and have seen a growing number of people use them. When I saw them in my colour I couldn't resist. They look aggressive, and comfortable. They are also relatively expensive at between US$120 - 150. They are very light, which was surprising. Also, the construction is very thin, which gives you the impression that they are cheap. The lacing system is traditional, and the padding in the sole is barely existent, to the point that you can feel every pebble that you stand on. The traction is good, although I have slipped a few times on loose surfaces. I'm still new to these shoes, and have been somewhat disappointed, but that may change. They are comfortable for long wear, but I would have liked more sidewall support, and a more padded sole.

 

At the moment, I would say the Salomon's would be my top pick, and if you are more budget conscious, the Nike Land Sharks. These shoes are freely available online. I usually buy from Zappos USA.

Wow. I've Been Absent From Blogging For Ages - But I'm Back

I've been absent from blogging for two years, gosh I can't believe it. You might wonder why. Well, this sport evolves so quickly when you're a beginner, that you can't keep up blogging the changes. This creates a snowball effect, and eventually you don't know where to begin. So I'm just going to jump in. I'm back.