IDPA tactics that could get me killed?

[okgr8outdrs]

I guess this is my request to Michael Brown to point out any tactics or habits established by shooting IDPA that spell trouble in a real-life confrontation.

My main reason for trying IDPA is to build skills that would help me in a self-defense situation. The comraderie is fun, but I am more serious about the ultimate goal of surviving in a world that appears to be getting increasingly violent. If competition is detrimental to fighting skills, than I would like to know from someone I trust before I get too involved in it.

[Michael Brown]

I have a little bit different take on this than some people, but I have noticed that its a view shared by almost all the good IDPA/IPSC shooters that are also professional warriors like Scott Warren (FBI-HRT) and Larry Vickers (Delta Force) to name just two. If anyone believes that these guys are not some of the most expert tacticians and experienced warriors around, they obviously haven't faced them.

I think there minimal concern over IDPA tactics seeping into a real confrontation. If you have been properly trained and you train with self-defense in mind, that is how you will respond.

the problem occurs when someone has NO formal self-defense training and believes that by being an IDPA Master shooter, he is ready to take on all comers.

IDPA is just a game like golf or racquetball. It simply shares the fact that you are shooting a gun with issues regarding self-defense. From there the similarities end.

If you want to stay alive in a confrontation, you should train that way. Then go blow off some steam and have some fun at an IDPA match. :)

Michael Brown