IPSC at Cranbourne Dandenong Pistol Club

IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation) is a dynamic form of competition where shooters solve constantly changing courses of fire using practical pistols and revolvers. The goal is to unite precision, power and speed in a safe, structured environment.

  • Multiple paper and steel targets in each stage
  • Moving, reactive and partially covered targets
  • Stages that require movement, reloads and problem-solving
  • Supervised by qualified Range Officers for safety and fairness

At CDPC, IPSC is open to suitably licensed shooters who enjoy fast-paced, competitive shooting and the challenge of planning and executing a stage under time pressure.

IPSC Shooting Team at Cranbourne Dandenong Pistol Club

What is IPSC Practical Shooting?

IPSC is the world’s largest practical shooting organisation, founded in 1976 and now active in more than 100 regions across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Oceania.

Competitions are held with pistol, revolver, rifle and shotgun, and competitors are divided into different divisions based on firearm and equipment. Within each division, shooters can also compete in categories such as Lady, Super Junior, Junior, Senior and Super Senior.

Core principles – Accuracy, Power & Speed

IPSC competitors try to unite the three core principles of practical shooting – precision, power and speed – by using firearms that meet a minimum power factor and by scoring as many points as possible in the shortest time.

Accuracy (Diligentia)

  • Hits on scoring zones are worth different points depending on placement.
  • Penalty targets and “no-shoots” apply additional score penalties.
  • Careful sight alignment and trigger control are essential under time pressure.

Power & Speed (Vis & Celeritas)

  • Firearms must meet a minimum power factor for the division.
  • Stage time is recorded for each shooter; faster runs score better.
  • Final scores balance points, penalties and total time to reward complete performance.

Stages & courses of fire

IPSC courses of fire – known as stages – are shot individually.

Shooters often need to move and shoot from several positions, engage targets around or through obstacles and use a variety of shooting positions (standing, kneeling, prone and more).

There are no standard target layouts – stages are designed to encourage creative problem-solving, so shooters may choose different paths and strategies to complete the same course.

IPSC stages & match structure

IPSC matches are made up of multiple stages, each with its own layout, round count and challenges. Time and accuracy are combined into a single score, with penalties applied for misses, procedural errors and hits on penalty targets.

Stage design

Stages can include a mix of paper and steel targets, movers, swingers, drop-turners and reactive plates. Some targets may be partially hidden behind cover or shoot-through barriers to increase difficulty.

Movement & positions

Shooters typically move between shooting boxes, ports and barricades, engaging targets from a variety of positions. You might have to shoot through windows, around obstacles or from low and unconventional stances.

Scoring & penalties

Your time to complete the stage is recorded, and penalties are applied for inaccurate shooting or breaking stage procedures. The scoring system rewards efficient movement, solid planning and accurate shooting under pressure.

“This is NOT static target shooting!”

Unlike many traditional target sports where competitors repeat the same course and distance, IPSC is designed to be varied and challenging.

Each match asks: “How difficult can we safely make this?” – while staying within strict international rules and range procedures.

Divisions, categories & range officials

IPSC recognises different divisions based on firearm type and equipment configuration, so shooters compete on a level playing field within their chosen setup.

Who competes in IPSC?

Firearm divisions

  • Pistol and revolver divisions
  • Rifle and shotgun divisions (at suitable ranges)
  • Equipment-based divisions to balance optics, magazines and modifications

Competitor categories

  • Lady (female competitors)
  • Super Junior (under 16) and Junior (under 21)
  • Senior (over 50) and Super Senior (over 60)
  • Separate awards in addition to Overall rankings within each division

Range Officers & safety

  • IPSC is governed by detailed rules and procedures to keep the sport safe.
  • Matches are run by trained Range Officers and officials, many accredited through the International Range Officers Association.
  • Strict muzzle, trigger and movement rules are enforced on every stage.

Safety is always the first priority. IPSC may look fast and exciting, but it is built on disciplined gun handling, clear range commands and careful match design.

IPSC at CDPC – what to expect

At Cranbourne Dandenong Pistol Club, IPSC stages are designed to be challenging but accessible, allowing new shooters to learn while still giving experienced competitors room to push their skills.

How a typical match runs

  • Shooters attend a detailed safety briefing before shooting.
  • Each stage is walked through so competitors can plan their approach.
  • Shooters run stages one at a time under direct RO supervision.
  • Scores and times are recorded after each stage for overall match results.

Is IPSC right for you?

IPSC may be a good fit if you:

  • Enjoy problem-solving and stage planning.
  • Like fast-paced, dynamic shooting rather than static benches.
  • Are committed to safe firearm handling at all times.
  • Want a sport that offers both personal challenge and strong club community.

See IPSC in action

Want a taste of what IPSC looks like on the range?
Watch a sample stage run and see how accuracy, power and speed come together.

Get involved in IPSC at CDPC

Interested in shooting IPSC at Cranbourne Dandenong Pistol Club?
New and experienced practical shooters are welcome.

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