JustBeginning
Beginner's guide

So you're getting into practical shooting

USPSA and IDPA are the fastest-growing competitive shooting sports in the US. The learning curve is steep, the gear costs real money, and the payoff is unlike any other sport: moving through a stage under the clock, reading targets, making decisions under pressure. Here's what you need to compete in Production class from day one.

By Colin B. · Published June 7, 2026 · Last reviewed June 7, 2026
Adult competitor shooting pistol at an outdoor practical shooting range

Photo by Joel Moysuh on Unsplash

The 60-second version

If you only buy 3 things to start:

  1. Walker's Razor Slim Electronic Ear Muffs — Buy these before your first range trip. Electronic muffs protect your hearing while letting you hear range commands.
  2. Safariland 014 Open-Class Competition Holster — The competition holster that serious Production shooters use, from first match to national champion.
  3. Blade-Tech Classic Double Stack Double Mag Pouch — Two extra magazines on your belt, positioned for a fast reload. Required for any real stage.
Budget total
$950
Typical total
$1500
Pistol ($500-800), holster ($150-300), belt ($80-150), mag pouches ($80-150), safety gear ($50-100). Buy it right the first time.

We earn commission on qualifying Amazon purchases — see our affiliate disclosure. Price tiers and budget totals shown above are editorial estimates; actual Amazon prices vary.

At a glance

Our top pick in each category

The fastest path through this guide — each best-starter pick by category. Scroll for the budget and upgrade alternatives.

CategoryTop pickPriceWhere to buy
PistolGLOCKGLOCK 34 Gen 5 MOS$$$ See on Amazon →
HolsterSafarilandSafariland 014 Open-Class Competition Holster$$$ See on Amazon →
Belt SystemDouble Alpha AcademyDouble Alpha Academy DAA Premium Belt$$ See on Amazon →
Magazine PouchesBlade-TechBlade-Tech Classic Double Stack Double Mag Pouch$$ See on Amazon →
Safety GearWalker'sWalker's Razor Slim Electronic Ear Muffs$$ See on Amazon →
Before you buy anything

A few things worth knowing first

Your first 10-20 matches will be more about safe gun handling than about score. Production class is the right division to start: no expensive modifications, no optics, and the rules are designed for box-stock pistols. Your GLOCK or M&P is already legal.

Visit a local club match before buying anything. USPSA and IDPA clubs hold monthly matches for $15-25 to enter, and every experienced shooter will let you watch, lend you gear, and tell you honestly what to buy. This is the shooting sports equivalent of open play.

Budget $1,000-1,600 to start properly. A reliable pistol ($500-800), competition holster ($150-300), competition belt ($80-150), and magazine pouches ($80-150) is what a complete Production setup costs. Cutting corners on the holster and belt leads to malfunctions during a stage.

The gear

What you actually need

man doing practice shooting

Photo by LOGAN WEAVER | @LGNWVR on Unsplash

Pistol

Production class is designed for the pistols most people already own or can buy off the shelf: GLOCK 17, GLOCK 34, Smith and Wesson M&P 2.0, CZ Shadow 2, SIG P320. The rules are minimal (10-round magazines, no compensators, no optics), which keeps costs focused on the pistol itself. Pick a 9mm striker-fired or DA/SA gun you can shoot well, and buy it at a local FFL dealer. Amazon does not sell complete firearms.

Pistol — what's the difference?

A few common shapes, each making a different trade.

Production

Iron sights, stock trigger, 10-round mags. The right starting division.

Optics
Iron sights only
Magazines
10 rounds max
Modifications
Stock or minor internal

Best for All new competitors; any Production-approved 9mm pistol

Tradeoff Reload-limited vs. Limited class; compensates with more available holster options

Carry Optics

Adds a red dot optic. Same 10-round limit and stock rules otherwise.

Optics
Red dot required
Magazines
10 rounds max
Modifications
Optic mount and internal mods

Best for Shooters comfortable in Production who want to add a red dot

Tradeoff Additional cost ($300-600 for a quality red dot) and new aiming system to learn

Limited

High-capacity magazines, external mods allowed. Skip for year one.

Optics
Iron sights only
Magazines
High capacity (140mm)
Modifications
External thumb rests, grip work

Best for Experienced competitors ready to invest in a purpose-built competition gun

Tradeoff Equipment cost jumps significantly; diminishing returns until fundamentals are solid

Best starter
GLOCK

GLOCK 34 Gen 5 MOS

$$$

The GLOCK 34 is the most popular Production class pistol at USPSA matches by a wide margin. The 5.31-inch barrel gives a longer sight radius than a standard G17, and the MOS variant is pre-milled for a red dot when you eventually move to Carry Optics division. Parts are everywhere, the platform is proven, and it was designed with competition in mind. Buy through a local FFL dealer.

What we like

  • Most popular Production class pistol at USPSA matches nationwide
  • 5.31-inch barrel delivers a longer sight radius than a standard G17
  • MOS pre-milled for a red dot when you move to Carry Optics

What to know

  • Not sold on Amazon; requires FFL dealer or FFL transfer purchase
  • Long grip prints noticeably if you also carry concealed off-range
See on Amazon → Also at GLOCK.com →
Budget pick
Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 5-Inch

$$

If you already shoot M&P, you're already Production-legal. The 5-inch barrel model runs under $600 street price and is genuinely competitive. The Gen 2 trigger is a real step up from the original, and M&P's aftermarket parts ecosystem is as deep as GLOCK's. A solid choice for anyone who finds the GLOCK grip angle awkward.

What we like

  • Under $600 street price, the most affordable serious Production option
  • Grip angle suits shooters who find the GLOCK angle uncomfortable
  • M&P ecosystem means parts and holsters are available everywhere

What to know

  • FFL dealer purchase only; no Amazon option
  • Trigger remains second-tier to a tuned GLOCK or CZ out of the box
See on Amazon → Also at Smith & Wesson →
Upgrade pick
CZ

CZ Shadow 2

$$$$

The dominant DA/SA choice in Production class worldwide. Its double-action first pull is smoother than almost any other out-of-the-box competition gun, the bore axis sits lower than a striker-fired pistol, and it has won Production class at multiple USPSA nationals. Expensive and worth it once you've shot enough to feel the difference.

What we like

  • DA/SA trigger is the most refined out-of-the-box action in Production
  • Low bore axis reduces muzzle rise for faster follow-up shots
  • Has won Production class at USPSA Nationals; the serious competitor's choice

What to know

  • DA first pull requires real dry-fire investment to master under pressure
  • At 46 oz loaded, demands a robust belt that won't sag during a stage
See on Amazon → Also at CZ-USA →
a man holding a gun in his pocket

Photo by seeetz on Unsplash

Holster

Your holster is mandatory safety equipment in every USPSA and IDPA match. It must hold the pistol securely while you sprint between positions and release cleanly every single draw. A regular concealed-carry holster is the wrong tool: it's built for concealment and retention, not competition speed and repeatability. Competition holsters (Safariland, CR Speed, Ghost) sit outside the waistband on the strong side and are adjustable for draw angle and height. Your pistol's first 500 draws should happen at home with an empty gun.

Best starter
Safariland

Safariland 014 Open-Class Competition Holster

$$$

The most widely used competition holster on the market, from first match to Grand Master level. ALS thumb retention requires a deliberate deactivation on the draw, which keeps your pistol secure through dynamic movement across barricades and obstacles. Mounts directly to any competition belt via MOLLE or direct-attach. Get your pistol-specific model number from the Safariland fit guide.

What we like

  • ALS retention keeps the pistol secure through dynamic movement and falls
  • Used by Production class competitors from first match to nationals
  • Pistol-fit database covers every major USPSA-legal production gun

What to know

  • Thumb deactivation adds a step; practice 500 draws at home before competing
  • Model-specific; confirm your exact pistol fit before ordering
Find on Amazon →
Upgrade pick
Blade-Tech

Blade-Tech Eclipse OWB Competition Holster

$$$

A popular upgrade once you've outgrown the Safariland's ALS system and want a lighter, more streamlined draw. The Eclipse uses a retention detent you release with your thumb on the draw, with an adjustable retention screw to dial in exact break-out force. Blade-Tech makes models for every major Production-class pistol and they're widely stocked at gun stores.

What we like

  • Adjustable retention screw lets you dial exact break-out force
  • Lighter and more streamlined than the Safariland ALS system

What to know

  • Thumb detent requires dedicated practice before competing
  • Less margin for error than ALS retention if draw technique is imperfect
Find on Amazon →

Belt System

A competition belt does two things a dress belt or duty belt can't: it holds your holster and mag pouches in the exact same position every single stage, and it's rigid enough to stay in place when you're sprinting, kneeling, and leaning around cover. Most serious Production shooters run a two-piece inner/outer system: a flexible inner belt threads through pants loops; a stiff outer belt clicks onto it via velcro. The outer holds gear. Do not show up to your first match with a leather dress belt.

Best starter
Double Alpha Academy

Double Alpha Academy DAA Premium Belt

$$

The inner/outer belt system that most Production class winners actually use. The flexible inner threads through pants loops; the stiff outer clicks on and locks your holster and pouches in the same position every stage. Holds a heavy CZ Shadow 2 without sagging after a 5-stage match. Available in 1.5-inch width, which is what most competition holsters and pouches are built for.

What we like

  • Inner/outer velcro interface locks gear in identical position stage to stage
  • Stiff outer keeps holster and pouches from shifting during sprints
  • 1.5-inch width fits all major competition holsters and pouches

What to know

  • Two-piece system adds 2-3 minutes to your gear setup each match
  • Velcro attracts range debris after a few matches; brush clean regularly
See on Amazon →
Budget pick
Blade-Tech

Blade-Tech Competition Shooting Belt 1.5"

$$

A single-layer competition belt that won't make you look like you showed up from work. Polymer-reinforced stiffener keeps your holster from drooping without the two-piece bulk. The right answer if you want something that works before you decide whether the inner/outer system is worth the upgrade.

What we like

  • Single-layer simplicity, faster to put on than an inner/outer system
  • Polymer stiffener keeps holster position consistent across a match

What to know

  • Less rigid than inner/outer under a heavy pistol; can shift mid-stage
  • Sizing in 2-inch increments; falls between sizes for some waist measurements
See on Amazon →

Magazine Pouches

Production class allows unlimited magazine changes and most stages are designed around them. Every competitor runs at least two double-stack mag pouches on the weak side, positioned for a fast reload draw. Position matters as much as the pouches themselves: most right-handed shooters run pouches at 8-10 o'clock, bullets forward, adjusted to their wrist height. Practice your reload draw at home before your first match so it's automatic.

Best starter
Blade-Tech

Blade-Tech Classic Double Stack Double Mag Pouch

$$

The standard entry-level competition mag pouch. Injection-molded Kydex holds magazines securely through dynamic movement while releasing cleanly on a practiced draw. Tension screws let you dial in exactly how hard the magazine releases. Compatible with all major 9mm double-stack magazines including GLOCK and M&P.

What we like

  • Tension screws let you dial the release from firm (practice) to fast (match)
  • Kydex holds magazine position through sprints, kneels, and barricade drills
  • Compatible with most 9mm double-stack magazines including GLOCK and M&P

What to know

  • Model-specific; order the exact fit for your magazine, not just your caliber
  • Kydex edge can scratch magazine basepads over hundreds of reps
See on Amazon →
Upgrade pick
CR Speed

CR Speed Double Magazine Pouch

$$$

The magazine pouch that production class nationals winners actually run. Dual polymer tension adjustment gives you precise control over release speed per pouch. Designed to position the magazine at exactly the right angle for a straight, consistent reload draw. Sold in pairs with a single UBL mount.

What we like

  • Per-pouch tension adjustment for precise release control in competition
  • Angle-adjustable mount positions magazine at ideal draw angle

What to know

  • Premium price over Kydex alternatives; more than most beginners need
  • Fewer retail stockists than Blade-Tech; may require a direct order
See on Amazon →

Safety Gear

Hearing and eye protection are mandatory at every USPSA and IDPA match, no exceptions. Electronic hearing protection is the meaningful upgrade here: it cuts out on gunshots (130+ dB for a 9mm) but amplifies normal conversation, so you hear range commands and coaching clearly between shots. Buy electronic ears once and keep them for years. Safety glasses need wraparound coverage; sunglasses with open sides don't count at most ranges.

Best starter
Walker's

Walker's Razor Slim Electronic Ear Muffs

$$

The most popular electronic ear protection in the sport for a reason: slim profile that fits comfortably under cheek weld, 23 dB NRR for meaningful suppression, and clear omni-directional microphones that amplify range commands. Battery life runs 30+ hours on a pair of AAAs. If you buy one piece of safety gear for practical shooting, make it these.

What we like

  • Slim profile fits under cheek weld during rifle stages without interference
  • Electronic suppression lets you hear range commands and conversation clearly
  • 30+ hour battery life on AAAs; won't die mid-match on a single charge

What to know

  • Electronic suppression adds a slight delay vs. passive muffs (imperceptible in practice)
  • Mic quality on voice amplification is functional, not audiophile-grade
See on Amazon →
Budget pick
Howard Leight

Howard Leight Impact Sport Electronic Ear Muffs

$

The other electronic muff that's everywhere at USPSA matches. Slightly more profile than the Walkers, but same electronic suppression concept at a lower price. A reliable first pair if you find the Walkers out of stock or over budget.

What we like

  • Lower price than Walker's with the same core electronic suppression feature
  • Familiar foldable design that stores flat in a range bag

What to know

  • Bulkier than Slim profile; cheek weld can be affected on rifle-stage crossover
  • Stereo amplification feels slightly less natural than Walker's mic placement
See on Amazon →
Specialty pick
Pyramex

Pyramex I-Force Sporty Dual Lens Safety Glasses

$

Wraparound coverage with ANSI Z87.1 impact rating. Dual-lens design reduces fogging by creating an air gap between lenses. Comfortable enough to wear for a 6-stage outdoor match in summer. Range regulations require coverage on all sides; standard sunglasses don't qualify at most clubs.

What we like

  • ANSI Z87.1 impact rating meets every USPSA and IDPA range requirement
  • Dual-lens gap reduces fogging during hot outdoor matches

What to know

  • Tinted lens limits visibility in shaded indoor bays
  • Foam gasket traps sweat in hot conditions; can fog lenses from inside
See on Amazon →
Going deeper

Your first season of practical shooting

USPSA and IDPA reward people who think fast, move efficiently, and stay composed under a running clock. Here's what actually happens between showing up at your first match and feeling like you belong on the range.

Read the guide →
Save your money

What you don't need yet

Beginners get pressured to buy a lot of stuff that doesn't help them play better. Here's what we'd skip on day one.

  • Custom trigger job — A stock Production-legal trigger is all you need for the first year. Wait until your draw and grip are consistent before changing the trigger feel under you.
  • Magwell — Speeds up reloads but Production class rules restrict which magwells are legal. Learn the standard reload first, then add one after year one if your reloads are your weakness.
  • Personal shot timer — Every club match provides a range officer with a timer. Borrow the club's for your first few months; buy your own only when you're doing structured dry-fire practice at home.
  • Red dot sight — Iron sights are mandatory in Production class. A red dot is what you add when you move to Carry Optics, which is at minimum your second year in the sport.
  • Match-grade ammunition — Production class requires minor power factor (125 PF in 9mm), which most bulk FMJ practice loads already meet. Save match-grade ammo for when you're running at regional or national level.
First week

Your first seven days

A short, real plan to get from gear-on-doorstep to actually playing.

  1. Attend a local USPSA or IDPA club match as a spectator. Most clubs welcome non-shooters to walk the bays and watch. Two hours of observation will teach you more than a month of YouTube. · Action
  2. Order ear and eye protection before anything else. These arrive in two days and you need them before you touch a firearm. · Buy
  3. Order your competition holster once you've chosen your pistol. Confirm the exact model number for your specific gun from the manufacturer's fit guide. · Buy
  4. Sign up for a USPSA membership. You need a USPSA number to enter sanctioned matches. The annual fee is $40. · Action
  5. Buy your pistol at a local FFL dealer and run 50-100 rounds through it before your first match to confirm reliability. · Action
  6. Start 15 minutes of dry-fire draw practice daily. The competition draw from a retention holster needs to be automatic before you're on a hot range with a loaded gun. · Action
  7. Read the USPSA Production equipment rules before your first match. The approved-gun list is at uspsa.org. Your pistol needs to be on it. · Learn
FAQ

Common questions

Do I need a special license to compete in USPSA or IDPA?

You need the same legal rights to own a handgun that any private citizen has in your state. USPSA and IDPA require no additional permits for the sport itself. Some states have specific transport rules for taking a pistol to a competition venue; check with your local club or an attorney familiar with your state's laws before your first match.

What's the difference between USPSA and IDPA?

USPSA scores on a combination of hit points and time (called hit factor), rewards movement strategy, and runs a wider range of equipment divisions. IDPA is more scenario-based, has simpler rules, and is generally more beginner-friendly at the club level. Both reward the same core skills. Try an IDPA match first; if you get hooked, add USPSA.

Can I use my everyday carry pistol?

Probably yes in IDPA's Stock Service Pistol (SSP) division, which was designed for standard-capacity service pistols. For USPSA, check the Production-approved gun list at uspsa.org before showing up. The list is updated regularly and your pistol's exact model and generation need to be on it.

How much does it cost per match?

Local club matches run $15-25 to enter and use 100-200 rounds of ammo. At $0.30-0.40 per round for 9mm FMJ, budget $50-80 per match in ammo plus entry fee. Regional and national matches cost more ($75-150 to enter). Stick to club matches for the first year.

Is this dangerous for beginners?

Practical shooting has an excellent safety record precisely because every match has range officers supervising every stage. An RO will stop the stage at any unsafe action. The rules feel strict the first time you encounter them; by match three they feel like common sense. Attend as a spectator first, then take a new-shooter orientation before competing.

What division should I start in?

Production class for USPSA, Stock Service Pistol (SSP) for IDPA. Both are designed for box-stock service pistols with standard magazine capacity, which keeps equipment costs manageable. Don't enter Open or Limited class as a beginner: the equipment is expensive and you can't leverage it until your fundamentals are solid.

Going further

Where to next

Related hobbies

Browse by category

Authoritative sources

  • USPSA — United States Practical Shooting Association. The sanctioning body for USPSA competition in the US. Find clubs, match calendars, and the official rulebook. The Production-approved gun list is in the equipment appendix.
  • IDPA — International Defensive Pistol Association. Simpler rules and a more beginner-accessible club environment than USPSA. A good first organization for new competitors.
  • Practiscore — The universal match registration and results platform for USPSA, IDPA, and most other shooting sports. Use this to find and sign up for local matches.
  • Brian Enos Forums — The main online forum for practical shooting competitors. The gear subforum is the most useful resource for Production class equipment questions from shooters who've actually run the gear.
  • Steve Anderson (YouTube / Dry Fire Reloaded) — The definitive dry-fire training resource. Anderson's focused approach to building a consistent draw stroke is the standard for new competitors. Watch before your first match.
  • Ben Stoeger (YouTube / Books) — 14-time US National Champion and full-time practical shooting coach. His books and YouTube channel are the practical reference for Production class competitors who want to understand the game, not just participate in it.
  • r/competitionshooting — Smaller than r/guns but far more focused on USPSA and IDPA. Gear questions, stage walkthroughs, and training discussions from people who actually compete.

As an Amazon Associate, JustBeginning earns from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commission from other affiliate programs linked on this page. Editorial recommendations are independent — we don't choose products based on commission rates.