IDPA: Practical Training for Self-Defense and Church Security

If you conceal carry for the purpose of being ready to defend yourself or others in the event of a lethal threat—including while volunteering on your church security team—you should consider becoming a member of the International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA), the shooting sport that simulates self-defense scenarios and real life encounters.

[ Read articles in the SemperVerus category of Church Security ]

Regularly conducting drills at your local gun range by standing in a lane and firing at a static bullseye target is important and helps develop and maintain your shooting skill and marksmanship. But it doesn’t reflect real-world environments where you need to move, draw from your concealed holster, seek cover, and make on-the-spot “shoot” and “don’t-shoot” decisions against one or multiple targets.

[ Read the SemperVerus article, Church Security Training: Decision Decks Help You Think Through a Crisis Before It Happens ]

IDPA matches consist of multiple everyday scenarios you may encounter—such as walking into a convenience store during an armed robbery—involving moving targets, obstacles to maneuver, running to and shooting from behind cover, magazine changes, firing while seated, kneeling, prone, and more; all designed to help you become more proficient with your concealed carry firearm and make better, faster decisions when your life is literally on the line.

[ Read the SemperVerus article, Chart: The Spectrum of Potential Threat Personas in Self-Defense and Church Security ]

IDPA events are a fast and fun way to gain confidence with your defensive firearm of choice. Find a local club near you.

[ Read SemperVerus articles on the subject of Training ]


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