I'm new to IDPA and I'm not sure how to go about finding a classifier. I've tried using the IDPA website but it sucks for finding anything specific. How can I go about this? I'd like to be classified ASAP so I can compete as much as possible this summer.

I only see one or two classifiers in the schedule here http://www.nepaidpascores.net/

Classifiers aren't necessarily labeled though

 

You know you can compete in local matches without a classification though, right? It's only P-Burg/Easton/Hellertown that require either a classification OR proof of training to participate.

Yes I'm aware, but that does limit my number of matches I can compete in, hence why I would like to be classified. I'd like to spend as many weekends as I can, shooting in competition format.

The match at Somerset next month will be a classifier.

 

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The match at Somerset next month will be a classifier.

 

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Awesome, thank you

OP - You may be laboring under a false impression about the need to be classified in order to compete. Have you shot any matches? You can shoot any number of club level matches without ever having a classification - you would simply compete as "unclassified".

 

As a "new to IDPA" shooter, a classifier as your first (or near to first match) may be ill advised. Shoot several club level matches before shooting a classifier. The matches that require an up to date classification are sanctioned matches. In this general area there may be six or so of those per year. Match fees for a sanctioned match usually run from $75 to $100 and matches may be held over more than one day.

 

At this point in your IDPA career you want to concentrate on learning the rules and honing your skills by shooting as many club level matches as possible. There are enough matches within driving distance, in this area, that you could shoot every weekend (sometimes twice at two different clubs). Club level match fees run $10 to $20 per match - most at the lower end of that scale.

 

Once you get some club level matches under your belt, then seek out a classifier - whether you intend to shoot sanctioned matches or not - but not right out of the gate. With all the clubs in the area, you will know who is holding a classifier and when.

 

I don't want to discourage you, but it would be best to hold off on Somerset. Being a classifier, and having limited space, the match is limited to 18 shooters. The MD requested that people that do not need to be classified, i.e.current classification still valid, or no intent to shoot in a sanctioned match, refrain from registering for this match to give those that need to classify a chance. Many classifiers from early this year were cancelled due to weather, so there are some who really need to take advantage of Somerset's match.

 

One of the match directors in this area - who acts as MD for Phillipsburg, Easton and Hellertown has stated that before you can shoot at one of his matches, you are required to present proof of classification in IDPA, USPSA, ICORE or proof of having taken an NRA course. This was done due to the recent IDPA rule changes that make the MD more personally liable than they were in the past. This MD is only being prudent, but he is a reasonable person. If you have shot matches at other clubs, let him know. If you have taken firearm safety courses, tell him which ones. These things can be decided on a case by case basis - so don't think you have to have an actual classification to shoot his matches - and other clubs don't require vetting like that.

 

Check out the schedule on this site and you'll see that you can be very busy every weekend as well as some days during the week...

 

http://www.nepaidpascores.net/cgi-bin/shooting_schedule.pl?req=all

 

I try to shoot four matches (IDPA/USPSA) per month and that keeps this old man plenty busy.

 

Have fun and I'm sure that we'll cross paths at a match, at some point down the road.

 

Adios,

 

Pizza Bob

Bob, I've seen you post many times answering questions about these sort of things, and I know that you know your stuff. I'll take your advice and hold off on classifying. As usual, great post and clarification. Thanks

May I suggest Guthsville, PA on Sunday, 6/1 as your initial outing. Nice club and a well run match. You can shoot one match before you join IDPA. You can do that on line.

 

Thanks for the kind words.

 

Adios,

 

Pizza Bob

Ask at the clubs you attend. Each IDPA club is required to hold 1 classisfer a year. The Match Directors will be able to give you an idea when the classifier will be.

Unless hes so damned good he'll rise quickly in the ranks. Maybe. ???

Unless hes so damned good he'll rise quickly in the ranks. Maybe. ???

Shhh, I can't hustle if my tactic is given away

 

Bob, I've already joined IDPA online. I won't be able to make 6/1 but thank you for the kind offer.