IPSC HANDGUN: THE HEART OF DYNAMIC SHOOTING SPORTS

When people talk about IPSC, they usually think of handguns first. And for good reason: it was exactly here that one of the world’s most dynamic shooting sports was born.

The founding of the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) in 1976 in Hawaii laid the foundation for a new type of shooting discipline – realistic, practical, fast, and safe. What started with pistols and revolvers later expanded to include rifles, shotguns, PCC, and Mini Rifle – but the handgun remains the core of the discipline.

PRECISION UNDER PRESSURE – THE IPSC PRINCIPLE

IPSC means: shooting against the clock, tactical challenges, a variety of targets, and constantly changing courses. It’s not just about hitting the target – but also about doing it fast and efficiently. The key term: HIT FACTOR.

HIT FACTOR = POINTS ÷ TIME

The higher your accuracy and the shorter your time, the better your score. Penalties apply for misses or for hitting “No-Shoot” targets.

Competitors shoot at paper IPSC targets (Alpha, Charlie, Delta zones) and falling steel plates. Two scoring hits per target are required. The type of ammunition (Minor or Major Power Factor) influences the scoring – which allows for tactical decisions.

IPSC HANDGUN DIVISIONS – A CATEGORY FOR EVERY STYLE

OPEN DIVISION: the Formula 1 of IPSC. Almost anything is allowed – red dots, compensators, extended magazines. Dominated by custom-built 2011 pistols

STANDARD DIVISION: 1911/2011-style pistols with iron sights. No optics or compensators. A popular, versatile classic

CLASSIC DIVISION: only single-stack 1911 pistols allowed. A nod to tradition – no modern accessories

REVOLVER DIVISION: pure manual precision. Double-action revolvers. Demands technical skill

PRODUCTION DIVISION: factory handguns like Glock, CZ, SIG. Minimal modifications allowed. Max 15 rounds, Minor Power Factor only

PRODUCTION OPTICS: same rules as Production, but with red dot optics. Popular and accessible.

EQUIPMENT & AMMUNITION

You’ll need:

• At least 4–5 magazines

• An IPSC belt with mag pouches

• A secure holster

• Eye and hearing protection

Optional: shot timer, tools, suitable clothing.

Ammunition must be reliable, accurate, and cost-effective. Many shooters reload their own. GECO offers high-quality 9mm cartridges for Minor and components for reloaders.

CONCLUSION

IPSC Handgun is more than just shooting – it’s strategy, speed, and adrenaline. With the right gear and ammo, this sport is accessible and incredibly rewarding.