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View Full Version : Your Opinion on When to Do a Classifier



Bongo Boy
03-05-2009, 23:42
I've not yet started IDPA or USPSA shooting...just have the nifty membership cards.

From some web reading I got the impression (maybe wrongly) that it's common for new shooters to do a Classifier very early, even as their first 'match'. Afterward, I read comments from someone saying he felt a shooter should have *I believe* six months of match shooting experience before doing their first one--he could have said 6 matches or something like that.

The rationale there was that too much learning is happening and an earlier classifier is somewhat useless. I think I understand that, but, if someone is willing to conduct one and allow me to shoot it, why would I NOT shoot it? Is is quite a paperwork burden on the system?

Anyway, I'm curious about opinions on the topic, but also about how the decision is made that a Classifier needs to be held--is it just a matter of how many folks show interest and that's about it?

pickenup
03-06-2009, 00:09
There is a difference in USPSA and IDPA as far as the classifier goes. In USPSA there is usually one stage at every match, that is a classifier. You shoot it just like the rest of the stages.

With IDPA it is usually most of a match all in itself.

If that is what is set up, either way, shoot it.

Some people get nervous shooting them.
Especially new people, even though there is no reason to.
The more times you shoot them, the more comfortable you will be with them.

After a while, it is nice to be able to go back and compare your scores, as you get better.
JMHO

Sticks
03-08-2009, 04:13
FRIDPA - you do not get to pick when to do the classifier, only if you choose to shoot that day. They try to do one or two a year. The entire group shoots it, it is an all day event, and is not that exciting (borders on boring actually). The do try to have one stage that is set up as a blind to add a little fun to it.

My very first match was the classifier, and it was nice to know where I stand as a newbie, and then the next one will tell me how much I have improved (or gotten worse).