...bang, bang, bang... I shot an IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation) course last Thursday. The course consisted of 10 torso targets arrayed at various angles and distances (most less than 20yards), and a few metallic drop targets. On this course, the goal was to shoot each paper target twice, and the metallic targets once in the fastest time possible. Obviously this involved some reloading, so a few spare loaded magazines are necessary to complete the course... minimally 22 shots were needed. The course of fire starts with the gun holstered and the shooter standing behind a barricade. When the signal is given, the shooter draws, and procedes to shoot the course, reloading as necessary. The order in which to shoot the targets is left to the discretion of the shooter... Some strategy is required to solve more complicated target setups, especially when moving targets are involved. I was surprisingly accurate in my first few trips through the course... although I was quite slow (compared to good shooters.) My best time was about 35 seconds. The instant magazine changes as seen on TV are harder than they look. I bungled it the first few times. I can blame one of the slow times on someone tripping over the power cord that was powering the lights. I was merrily shooting away when it went almost pitch black. I looked back at the range officer and he indicated to keep shooting ("use the force"). I was finding targets with the muzzle blast from the previous shot... and wound up shooting nearly as well as I did with the lights on. What a hoot. I drove home as relaxed as I can remember being. I could see how someone could get really into this sport... it's like a video game with real bullets. Plus, I have to admit that a full sized 1911 holstered on your hip is quite the fashion statement.