founded in 1996
International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA)
- IDPA is the use of practical equipment including full charge service ammunition to solve simulated “real world” self-defense scenarios using practical handguns and holsters that are suitable for self-defense use.
- The main goal is to test the skill and ability of an individual
- http://www.idpa.com/about/introduction
| International Defensive Pistol Association is the international organization governing a type of pistol events requiring practical handguns and holsters that are truly suitable for self-defense use. No “competition only” equipment is permitted in IDPA matches since the main goal is to test the skill and ability of an individual, not his or her equipment or gamesmanship. |
International Defensive Pistol Association
150 CR 4603
Bogata, TX 75417
(870) 545-3886
About IDPA
The International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) is a shooting sports organization built around practical, self-defense-style pistol matches. It was founded in 1996 by a group of well-known shooters and trainers, among them Bill Wilson, John Sayle, Ken Hackathorn, Dick Thomas, Walt Rauch and Larry Vickers, who wanted a sport that rewarded real-world carry skills rather than specialized race guns. The original rules were adopted on October 26, 1996. Stages simulate defensive encounters, and competitors must use practical carry pistols, concealment garments and holsters suited to everyday use, along with tactics such as shooting from cover and reloading behind it.
For gun owners, IDPA is one of the most accessible ways to test concealed carry gear and skills under the pressure of a timer. Matches are run by local clubs across the United States and abroad, and shooters compete within divisions that group similar guns, including Stock Service Pistol, Enhanced Service Pistol, Custom Defensive Pistol, Compact Carry Pistol, Carry Optics, Revolver, Back-Up Gun and Pistol Caliber Carbine. Scoring has grown stricter on accuracy over time: the penalty per point down rose from 0.3 to 0.5 seconds in 1997 and to 1.0 second in 2017. As of 2026 IDPA remains active, headquartered in Bogata, Texas, with its rulebook last amended in February 2025.
Key Facts
- 1996: IDPA founded by Bill Wilson, Ken Hackathorn and other shooters
- October 26, 1996: original rules adopted, with 0.3 seconds added per point down
- July 7, 1997: rulebook update raises the penalty to 0.5 seconds per point down
- January 1, 2017: 1.0 second per point down takes effect
- February 1, 2025: current rulebook version amended
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Sources
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