There were 7 shooters in the class using an interesting assortment of pistols; 1 Springfield XD, 1 Glock modified to Standard Div., 1 S&W M&P, 1 S&W revolver (left handed student, of course:), 1 Shadow and 2 Shadow 2’s, all in 9mm Luger. All right handers except the one lefty noted and 2 who reload. I suspect the others will follow suit soon and join the legions of those of us who do reload.

We shot over 2800 rounds in the course. I did find that the Shadow 2 slide is a challenge to operate with its triangular shaped slide. There is probably a different method and I will look to find how to manipulate the slide better.

Rob C and Kevin H helped with the group to share their combined knowledge and team involvement from not only qualifiers but also Provincial and National matches. Their input was greatly appreciated and the group was not stuck with just my stories :).

As always, thank you to our staff. Linda or Dave are always there to open gates, unlock doors, etc. so the classes run smoothly. Special thanks to Mike Mc who dropped by to say “Hi” and welcome the students to Abby.

Picked up my three guns from Dlask this week, photos attached. This is my broken slide Open gun. Joe fitted a new slide and ejector.

This used to be a Steve Nastoff built .38 Super used by former IPSC Ladies World Champion, Kerry Lathwell. Joe converted it to 9mm Luger(Major) with a new slide, barrel and one of his comps.

This is my Standard gun refinished in .40SW. As much as I liked the red frame and silver slide on the blue grip, I am certain the next owner prefers this colour scheme. And, yes, it IS for sale. Call and we’ll talk;) And, no, it would not be for sale if I could see the sights:)

After I get out and shoot these, I will report back to you on the outcome.

These classes certify the students for holster use anywhere holsters are used. That is a great testament to the quality and trust the IPSC TC provides. The class also provides a peek into the world of IPSC and, hopefully, intrigues the students to continue on. I was pleased, at the IPSC BC AGM, to learn my retention rate is 43%. I am coming to realize not everyone is an IPSC junky like me. 🙂

It was obvious this group got it that the TC first priority is SAFETY while learning to shoot a wide variety of skills; freestyle, strong hand, weak hand, reloads, kneeling, prone, movement and more that students may encounter in matches.

The IPSC BC 2017 schedule is up, no applications yet. Metro Van has 4 qualifiers at Poco, 3 at TMSA this year as well as Provincials. Opportunities to complete TC requirements can be a challenge to the students. My IPSC TC classes for 2017 are already booked. Take a look and contact me to be register in the one that works for you. Next scheduled class is Feb18/19.17.

If you can’t get into qualifiers, check out ISL on the Island. They host club matches that are good practice for qualifiers. These are held in Victoria, Nanaimo and Campbell River. And, of course, steel matches at TMSA and Mission. Chilliwack does IDPA for yet another exposure to pistol shooting challenges.

Students can, and should, shoot steel matches before their first qualifier. TMSA has a steel match Sat Feb04.17. Mission also shoots steel, check their site. I am hoping that Abby again puts on Steel Challenge matches as steel matches are THE way newbies can ease into our great shooting games. Even coming out to a qualifier just to watch is a good idea to get a feel for how the game is played.

I am very pleased that AFGC is now putting on club matches. See the web page and get involved.

I put out a “sorta” weekly email announcing matches of which I am aware, Abby courses and more. If you want to be on that email list, send me an email asking to be added. Anytime you want to opt out, just send another email asking and it will happen.

My next IPSC class is scheduled for Feb18/19.2017. Still lots of time to stop saying, “I really want to shoot IPSC and take the course” and ACTUALLY sign up to prove it. 🙂

You can join this fast growing dynamic shooting sport by being a class graduate. Classes and more information can be found at http://mdgardner.com/extreme-pistol.htm#SCHED

I look forward to having you involved.
DVC
Murray “DOC” Gardner