Training for International Defensive Pistol Association
How to improve your IDPA skills with structured practice
About IDPA
Defensive-focused competition using concealment garments and cover. Emphasizes real-world scenarios with divisions like Stock Service Pistol, Carry Optics, and Compact Carry Pistol.
Why Use a Par Timer for IDPA?
In action pistol sports, speed and accuracy are equally critical. A par timer creates the same time pressure you'll face on the clock, helping you build the ability to perform under stress. Unlike a shot timer that only records what happened, a par timer challenges you to beat a specific time—pushing you to improve.
Training Plan for IDPA
1. Master Your Draw
Your draw is the foundation of every stage. A fast, consistent draw gives you a head start on every string of fire.
Practice these drills:
2. Build Reloading Speed
Fumbled reloads cost seconds. Drill your reloads until they're automatic—you shouldn't have to think about them during a stage.
Practice these drills:
3. Develop Target Transitions
Moving between targets efficiently is where many shooters lose time. Practice driving the gun aggressively while maintaining accuracy.
Practice these drills:
All IDPA Drills
Complete list of drills recommended for IDPA training:
Video
El Prez
Low ready facing away, Turn around, 2 shots on all (3) targets, Reload, 2 shots on all (3) targets
Video
Bill Drill
7 yards. 1 target. Draw and fire 6 shots. Should be able to cover all shots with a dollar bill. 3 second par for experienced shooter.
Video
Mozambique
Two shots to the chest, one to the head. Also called Failure to Stop. The classic defensive drill for stopping a determined threat.
Video
Draw to First Shot
Pure draw speed from holster to first accurate hit. The foundational drill for concealed carry and competition shooters alike.
Video
Tactical Reload
Reload while retaining the partial magazine. Essential skill for competition and defensive scenarios when you have a lull in action.
Video
Strong Hand Only
Shooting with your dominant hand only. Essential skill for injury scenarios and required in IDPA and USPSA competition stages.
Video
Weak Hand Only
Shooting with your support hand only. Critical skill for dominant-hand injury scenarios and competition stage requirements.
Video
Administrative Reload
Top up your magazine during a lull in action. Swap a partial mag for a full one while retaining the partial for later use.
Dry Fire Practice
Most top IDPA competitors dry fire far more than they live fire. Par Timer Pro is ideal for dry fire training—you get the same time pressure without spending ammunition.
Focus your dry fire on:
- Draw stroke consistency
- Reload mechanics
- Target transitions (use target stickers or marks on your wall)
- Trigger control at speed
Start Training Today
Download Par Timer Pro to access all 8 IDPA drills with built-in par times.
