Action Pistol Competiton?

[zeno1967]

Hi all, I am very new to handguns although I have plenty of experience with rifle and shotguns as they pertain to hunting.
I have an intrest in getting started in shooting competition somewhere down the road and have been checking out the different sites on the net.
My first question is this, I see that most post on the forum relate to IPSC or IDPA. First can someone explain to me in general what is the difference between these two and which if either is better for beginning shooters. I get the impression that unless you are willing to spend the dough you are not going to be able to compete in IPSC. Race Guns being the major factor here. Personally I dont see the thrill in winning because of your equipment. I would be much more excited having won against others based on my skills using little modified firearms.
The second thing I was curious about is Combat Action Pistol. I have seen this on the NRA website and was wondering is this a completely seperate enity from the other two. If so why doesnt anyone talk about that?Sounds intresting to me. Sorry for my ignorance on the subject and any responses and onpinions will be greatly welcomed.
Thanks Jim

[Walt-Sherrill]

IDPA was formed in response to the heavy "equipment" focus of IPSC.

Both are competitions where time is measured to complete a course of fire, and time penalties are added for improper techinque, non-observance of rules, or bad hits.

IDPA restricts the type of modifications allowed with guns, and generally requires a "street-ready" gun.  IPSC has new divisions that are very similar to IDPA, but others where there's a heavy emphasis on speed, rapid physical movement, large calibers, and high capacity magazines.  Run and Gun...

But believe me: you don't win because of your equipment.  You win because you are fast, accurate, willing to practice to excess (thousands of rounds a month), and highly focused.  All the other folks shooting against you have comparable equipment.  The standards are just different in IPSC.

I don't know anything about the new NRA type of competition, but suggest you go to the following websites for more information about IDPA or IPSC:

 www.idpa.com
 www.uspsa.com