Getting Started, with BJ Norris – Part 01 – Basic IDPA

This video documents the 2026 Arkansas State IDPA Championship, highlighting the shooter's experiences, mistakes, and lessons learned throughout the match. The shooter, using a MAC 9 DS, discusses challenges with grip, safety engagement, round count, and the impact of weather conditions like rain. Key takeaways include the importance of pre-stage planning, consistent grip, proper safety management, and adapting to environmental factors in competitive shooting.

This video details the experience of using a minimalist briefcase-style range bag for a local shooting match. The instructor demonstrates how to pack essential gear, including a 2011 pistol, and highlights the convenience of a smaller bag compared to a traditional large range bag. Key takeaways include the importance of engaging the grip safety on 2011 pistols and the practical considerations for carrying gear during competition.

This video documents the shooter's experience at the 2026 Texas State IDPA match, highlighting various stages and lessons learned. Key takeaways include the importance of consistent trigger engagement, managing equipment issues like a snagged string during a draw, and adapting to different target types such as movers. The shooter also reflects on the impact of environmental factors like cold weather and the learning curve associated with a new firearm.

This video details a competitive shooter's experience with a Kimber 2011 Pro during a USPSA match, focusing on troubleshooting a recurring 'not going into battery' malfunction. The shooter explores potential causes including magazines and hand placement, seeking to diagnose and resolve the issue for improved competition performance. The content offers practical insights into competitive shooting challenges and firearm reliability.

This guide details a competitive shooting stage technique demonstrated by Alyssa Seymour, focusing on efficient draw, movement between shooting positions, rapid target engagement with both steel and cardboard targets, and a dynamic reload while moving. The technique emphasizes smooth transitions and maintaining control for optimal performance in USPSA events. Instruction from an experienced competitor highlights key aspects of stage execution.

This video showcases a dynamic 2-gun competition stage at River Bend Gun Club, featuring a variety of shooting scenarios. The shooter demonstrates proficient transitions between rifle and pistol, engaging targets from diverse positions including a pickup truck, enclosed bays, and behind barricades. The content highlights practical application of competitive shooting techniques and gear.

This guide details the dangers of 'thumbing the hammer down' on a loaded firearm, a technique strongly advised against by experts. It emphasizes that this action, which involves pulling the trigger while manually lowering the hammer, carries a high risk of accidental discharge if the thumb slips. The expert instruction highlights safer alternatives like engaging the manual safety for 'cocked and locked' carry or clearing the chamber entirely.

This guide details the advanced technique of hand stippling a 1911 firearm frame for enhanced grip, as demonstrated by a master gunsmith. It covers the precise application of texture using a punch and hammer, followed by meticulous filing to refine the edges. This process requires significant skill and attention to detail for a professional finish.

This guide details the proper technique for cycling the slide on a semi-automatic pistol, specifically the 1911, as explained by Ken Hackathorn. It emphasizes avoiding "gun abuse" by not slamming the slide on an empty chamber, which can cause premature wear. The explanation includes the mechanical reasons behind this, focusing on how the cartridge rim stabilizes the extractor and cushions the slide's action.

Massad Ayoob, a renowned firearms instructor and legal expert, details the critical post-Defensive Gun Use (DGU) protocol. He emphasizes that the most common mistake is failing to immediately call 911 after a DGU, even if no shots were fired. This action is crucial for establishing oneself as the victim complainant in the ensuing legal aftermath.