[CWhitt]

I just recently graduated from college and moved back home to an area where IDPA is pretty strong. I've never shot competition before, and I'm really anxious to get involved in IDPA. However, I've got a few questions...

I currently own a S&W M&P .40.

**Using a completely stock M&P .40, what IDPA division(s) would I be eligible for?

**In IDPA, is there any advantage/disadvantage to shooting a certain caliber (other than your own proficiency with a different caliber)?

I'm in the market to purchase a new handgun anyway, and I've been leaning towards a Springfield XD.

So basically, I'm looking to get away from .40 due to the snappy recoil. If I was gonna buy an XD, and wanted to shoot IDPA, would it make any difference if I got a .45ACP or a 9mm? Are they scored differently?

**Also, what division(s) is a stock XD eligible for?

Thanks for any help you guys can provide.

[Hoser]

Using a completely stock M&P .40, what IDPA division(s) would I be eligible for?Stock Service Pistol


In IDPA, is there any advantage/disadvantage to shooting a certain caliber (other than your own proficiency with a different caliber)? Nope. There is no difference in power factors for scoring like IPSC has. Although many would like it to be that way to keep the 9x19 from being the caliber of choice for SSP and ESP.


would it make any difference if I got a .45ACP or a 9mm? Are they scored differently?Pistols in CDP must be 45 ACP. No other caliber can play there. No scoring diff in the other divisions.


Also, what division(s) is a stock XD eligible for?Enhanced Service Pistol. Go to www.idpa.com and check out their rulebook. Lots of info in there.

[.40-.45]

not sure on the M&P

XD will put ou in ESP (Enhanced Service Pistol)
9,40,45 are all the same

[jmorris]

For ESP and SSP 9mm has a few advantages, first in both factory ammo and reloads 9mm has the lowest recoil of the allowed cartridges in IDPA. Second 9mm is the least expensive again this counts for both reloads and factory ammo. Regardless, I would suggest starting with your M&P and not buy game specific equipment until you’ve learned the ropes. I would shy away from the XD as pointed out above that would place you in ESP shooting against (IMO) better choices like 9mm 1911s/STI/SVI.


EDIT:
According to the survey of participants at the 2006 national championship…
9mm 146
45acp 93
40s&w 34
357 16
38 super 5
38 spl 1
44 spl 1
45 gap 1

FWIW 82 of the 146 9mm were glock 17/34.

[Eljay]

The XD in 45 can be shot in CDP with 8+1 max loading