View source for International Practical Shooting Confederation

{{Short description|International organization for the sport of practical shooting}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2021}}
{{Infobox sport governing body
|name         = International Practical Shooting Confederation
|abbrev       = IPSC
|logo         = Logo of the International Practical Shooting Confederation.png
|logosize     = 170px
|sport        = [[Practical shooting]]
|category     = [[List of shooting sports organizations|Shooting sport]]
|image        = 
|caption      = 
|jurisdiction = [[File:Emblem-earth.svg|23x23px]] [[List of international sports federations|International]]
|membership   = 108 regions<ref name ="regions"/>
|founded      = {{start date and age|1976|5|24}}
|aff          =
|affdate      =
|headquarters = [[Amsterdam]], Netherlands
|president    = [[Vitaly Kryuchin]]<ref>{{cite web|title=Minutes of the Forty-First IPSC General Assembly Chateauroux, France, Saturday, 26 August, 2017, 9:00 am|url=http://www.ipsc.org/pdf/genasm41.pdf|website=IPSC|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201030922/http://www.ipsc.org/pdf/genasm41.pdf|archive-date=December 1, 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><br />(2018–present)
|url          = ipsc.org
}}
The '''International Practical Shooting Confederation''' ('''IPSC''') is the world's largest [[shooting sport]] association, and the largest and oldest within [[practical shooting]]. Founded in 1976, the IPSC nowadays affiliates over 100 regions from Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania.<ref name ="regions">{{Cite web |url=https://www.ipsc.org/ipsc/regions.php |title=IPSC.org : Regions |access-date=October 21, 2014 |archive-date=August 2, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140802133704/http://www.ipsc.org/ipsc/regions.php |url-status=dead }}</ref> Competitions are held with [[pistol]]s, [[revolver]]s, [[rifle]]s, and [[shotgun]]s, and the competitors are divided into different divisions based on firearm and equipment features. While everyone in a division competes in the Overall category, there are also separate awards for the categories Lady (female competitors), Super Junior (under 14 years), Junior (under 18 years), Senior (over 50 years), and Super Senior (over 60 years).

IPSC's activities include international regulation of the sport by approving firearms and equipment for various divisions, administering competition rules, and educating range officials (referees) through the [[International Range Officers Association]] who are responsible for conducting matches safely, fairly, and according to the rules. IPSC organizes the World Championships called the [[IPSC Handgun World Shoots|Handgun World Shoot]], [[IPSC Rifle World Shoots|Rifle World Shoot]], and [[IPSC Shotgun World Shoots|Shotgun World Shoot]] with three-year intervals for each discipline.

In reaction to the [[2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine]], the IPSC cancelled all scheduled and future level 3 and above international competitions in Russia.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://ipscbc.com/ipsc-world-bodys-position-opposition-to-russias-invasion-of-the-ukraine/ | title=IPSC World Body's Position, Opposition to Russia's Invasion of the Ukraine | date=March 4, 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.tactical-life.com/news/ipsc-has-sanctioned-russia/ | title=IPSC Has Sanctioned Russia, Cancels all Major Matches in Russia | date=March 2022 | access-date=June 16, 2022 | archive-date=June 16, 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220616201601/https://www.tactical-life.com/news/ipsc-has-sanctioned-russia/ | url-status=dead }}</ref>

== History ==
[[File:Combat masters A1.jpg|right|thumb|Five of the most famous shooters from the beginning of [[practical shooting]] in California during the late 1950s. Left to right: [[Ray Chapman (marksman)|Ray Chapman]], [[Elden Carl]], [[Thell Reed]], [[Jeff Cooper]] and [[Jack Weaver]]. (The sixth "Combat Master", [[John Plahn]], is missing from this photograph.)]]
The sport of practical shooting originated from competitions in California in the 1950s intending to develop handgun skills for defensive use, but quickly evolved into a pure sport with little grounding in the original purpose. The sport soon expanded to Europe, Australia, South America, and Africa. IPSC was founded in May 1976 when practical shooting enthusiasts from around the world participated at a conference held in [[Columbia, Missouri]], creating a constitution and establishing the rules governing the sport.<ref>[http://www.uspsa.org/document_library/IPSC%201976%20Columbia%20Conference%20Minutes.pdf Columbia Conference Minutes]{{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080414152607/http://www.uspsa.org/document_library/IPSC%201976%20Columbia%20Conference%20Minutes.pdf |date=2008-04-14}}</ref><ref>"[http://ipsc.org/whatipsc.htm What Is IPSC] {{webarchive|url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20021019025941/http://www.ipsc.org/whatipsc.htm |date=2002-10-19 }}", accessed August 17, 2007.</ref> [[Jeff Cooper]] served as the first IPSC President. Today there are over 100 active IPSC regions,<ref name ="regions"/> making practical shooting a major international sport that emphasizes [[Gun safety|firearms safety]] highly. Through international rules concerning firearms, equipment, and organizing of matches one tries to unite the three elements of precision, power, and speed, which is also the motto of IPSC that is {{lang|la|Diligentia, Vis, Celeritas}} (DVC), Latin for "precision, power, speed". Only full-caliber firearms are used, i.e. for handguns [[9×19mm]] is the smallest caliber, and the competitors try to achieve the most points in the shortest time possible.

== Scoring system ==
[[File:Stage brief at the 2017 IPSC Rifle World Shoot.jpg|thumb|right|A squad of shooters get their stage brief by an [[International Range Officers Association|IROA]] Range Officer on stage 11 of the [[2017 IPSC Rifle World Shoot]] in Russia.]]
Accuracy and speed is reflected by the comstock scoring method, while power is reflected by the minimum [[Power factor (shooting sports)|power factor]] requirement. Competitors fire the stages one at a time, and the scoring system is based on achieving most possible points in the shortest time.

=== Comstock ===
The scoring method is called comstock, named after its inventor Walt Comstock, which means that the competitor has unlimited time to complete the stage and can fire an unlimited number of rounds.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://americanhandgunner.com/retro-remembering-competition/ |title=Retro-Remembering: Competition {{!}} American Handgunner |access-date=November 28, 2018 |archive-date=November 29, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181129054349/https://americanhandgunner.com/retro-remembering-competition/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> The time is measured from the start signal until the last shot fired using special [[shot timer]]s with microphones, and this way the competitor can influence the total stage time. Since the number of rounds is unlimited, the competitor can re-engage the same target to get more points, but at the cost of using more time. Usually, the two best scoring hits count for each target.

Competitors are ranked for each stage by their hit factor, which is the ratio of points per second. The hit factor is calculated by summing the points (target scores minus penalties) and dividing by the time used.

<math>hit\ factor={points \over seconds}</math>

For example, if a stage has 12 paper targets, requires two scoring hits per paper target, and since an A-hit gives 5 points, the stage will have 12 × 2 × 5 = 120 points available. If a competitor scores 115 points and uses 25.00 seconds he will get a hit factor for that stage of {{frac|115 points|25.00 s}} = 4.6. The competitor with the highest hit factor wins the stage and gets all the available stage points (in this case 120 stage points), while other competitors are given stage points based on their hit factor percentage compared to the winner. For the overall match score, stage points are added for all stages, which means that each stage is weighted by how many stage points that are available.

The scoring method allows for a precise gradation of performances across the match, but requires a computer and software to do in a timely fashion. Matches can either be scored on paper and manually transferred to the official IPSC Match Scoring System (WinMSS), or can be scored directly on electronic devices like [[smartphone]]s and [[tablet computer|tablets]] with the WinMSS Electronic Score Sheet (ESS) app or third party scoring systems like Shoot'n Score It or PractiScore.

=== Power factor ===
[[File:Bullet coming from S&W.jpg|thumb|right|A [[high-speed photography]] of a [[.38 Special]] bullet fired out of a [[Smith & Wesson Model 686]] revolver.]]
The [[power factor (shooting sports)|power factor]] is the [[momentum]] of the fired bullet as it's moving through the air, which contribute to the [[recoil]] of the firearm (together with the propellant gases stemming from the amount of gunpowder). Thus, the power factor in a way reflects recoil. The power factor must exceed certain thresholds, and is calculated by measuring the ''bullet speed'' using a [[Gun chronograph|chronograph]] and measuring another of the competitor's bullets on a [[weighing scale]] to find the ''bullet mass'', thereafter calculating the ''power factor'' by the formula:

:<math>{power \; factor} = {mass} \cdot {velocity}</math>

The official unit used for the power factor is the [[Imperial units|imperial]] unit ''kilo grain feet per second'' (kgr·ft/s), while [[newton-second]]s (Ns) is the metric equivalent. "Grain feet per second" (gr·ft/s) can be obtained by measuring the ''mass'' in ''[[grain (mass)|grain]] (gr)'' (equal to {{frac|1|7000}} [[pound (mass)|pound]]), and ''velocity'' in ''[[foot per second|feet per second]] (ft/s)'', but since their product yields a very large number it is common to multiply by a factor of {{frac|1|1000}}, obtaining the power factor in "''kilo'' grain feet per second" instead.

:<math>kgr \cdot ft/s = \frac{grain \cdot ft/s}{1000}</math>

To measure the [[muzzle velocity]] the competitor's ammunition must be fired in the competitor's firearm, since velocities can vary slightly from one firearm to another. In for instance handgun competitions, the ammunition must exceed 125&nbsp;kgr·ft/s ((2.47&nbsp;Ns)) for minor scoring, and at least 160 or 170&nbsp;kgr·ft/s (3.16 or 3.36&nbsp;Ns) for major scoring (depending on division). Extra scoring is not given for exceeding the threshold. A competitor declaring major, but who fails the threshold, have their score re-calculated at minor. A competitor who fails the threshold of minor is given a score of zero for the match.

;Minimum power factors:
{| class="sortable wikitable"
!Division
!Minor <br />scoring
!Major <br />scoring
|-
|''Handgun'' <br />production
| colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" |125&nbsp;kgr·ft/s (2.47&nbsp;Ns) <br />''Only minor scoring''
|-
|''Handgun'' <br />standard, classic, revolver
|125&nbsp;kgr·ft/s (2.47&nbsp;Ns)
|170&nbsp;kgr·ft/s (3.36&nbsp;Ns)
|-
|''Handgun'' <br />open
|125&nbsp;kgr·ft/s (2.47&nbsp;Ns)
|160&nbsp;kgr·ft/s (3.16&nbsp;Ns)
|-
|''Rifle'' <br />''all divisions''
|150&nbsp;kgr·ft/s (2.96&nbsp;Ns)
|320&nbsp;kgr·ft/s (6.32&nbsp;Ns)
|-
|''Shotgun'' <br />''all divisions''
| colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" |480&nbsp;kgr·ft/s (9.48&nbsp;Ns) <br />''Only major scoring''
|-
|}

=== Targets ===
[[File:IPSC Target.png|thumb|right|The IPSC paper target which is used in all disciplines.]]
{{multiple image
 | width = 180
 | footer = 
Poppers are used as falling [[steel target]]s. <br />'''Left:''' Drawing of a full size IPSC Popper (85&nbsp;cm).<br /> '''Right:''' A {{frac|2|3}}  scaled down IPSC Mini Popper (56&nbsp;cm) used to simulate greater distance.
 | image1 = IPSC Popper steel target.png
 | image2 = IPSC Mini Popper steel target.png
 }}
To achieve a varied, challenging and exciting sport there are no fixed target arrangements, distances or shooting programs, making every match unique. Paper and steel targets can be mixed in the same stage, and may be static, moving or partially covered by targets called no-shoots that give minus points if hit.

Paper targets have the three scoring zones A, C, and D with points per hit varying slightly depending on power factor. A center hit for both minor or major is five points, but hits in lesser scoring areas are rewarded more for major than minor with the A-C-D zones being scored 5–4–2 for major and 5–3–1 for minor (see table below). A competitor who has declared minor must therefore either shoot more "A" hits or shoot faster than one who has declared major to make up the scoring disadvantage.

Some typical examples of moving target setups are swingers, bobbers, clamshells, movers, and drop turners.

Scoring of the targets is done by the Range Officer. For the competitor to get the relevant scoring value or penalty points, the bullet hole must at least touch the line of the scoring area.<ref>[http://www.ipsc.org/pdf/RulesCombined.pdf 2019 IPSC Combined Competition Rules], {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120825184629/http://www.ipsc.org/pdf/RulesCombined.pdf |date=August 25, 2012 }}, 9.5.2 and 9.5.3</ref> (Breaking the relevant scoring line is thus not necessary.)

Steel targets score 5 points and must fall to be scored. (For rifle some steel targets may score 10 points).

{| class="sortable wikitable"
!style="text-align: center;" |Scoring <br />area
!style="text-align: center;" |Minor  <br />points
!style="text-align: center;" |Major<br />points
|-
|style="text-align: center;" |'''A'''
|style="text-align: center;" |5
|style="text-align: center;" |5
|-
|style="text-align: center;" |'''C'''
|style="text-align: center;" |3
|style="text-align: center;" |4
|-
|style="text-align: center;" |'''D'''
|style="text-align: center;" |1
|style="text-align: center;" |2
|-
|}

For paper targets, the octagonal IPSC Target in typical cardboard color is used throughout all the disciplines, and a {{frac|2|3}} scaled-down IPSC Mini Target is used to simulate a full size target placed at a greater distance. Additionally, the Universal Target can be used for rifle or shotgun, while the A3 and A4 paper targets are approved for shotgun matches only.

For steel targets, there are two standardized knock down targets, the IPSC Popper (85&nbsp;cm tall) and the {{frac|2|3}} scaled-down IPSC Mini Popper (56&nbsp;cm tall). Metal plates are often circles between 20–30&nbsp;cm in diameter or squares between 15×15&nbsp;cm to 30×30&nbsp;cm for handgun, and circles between 15–30&nbsp;cm in diameter or squares between 15×15&nbsp;cm to 30×45&nbsp;cm for rifle and shotgun.

== Disciplines and divisions ==
For many years IPSC was fired with whatever firearm the competitors chose, but as equipment became more and more specialized various equipment classes were introduced. The equipment classes in IPSC are called "divisions". All divisions fire the same stages, on the same days, as all other divisions, in a match. However, when calculating match standings, only divisional stage scores are compared. Thus, the top competitor in Open on a stage is the measure for all other Open competitors, the best Standard competitor is the measure for all other Standard competitors and likewise for all other divisions.

=== Handgun ===

{{multiple image
 | width = 180
 | footer = Example of handguns for different divisions, Open on the left and Standard on the right.
 | image1 = 2011 type handgun with red dot, compensator, thumb rest, slide racker and magwell.png
 | image2 = CZ Standard division handgun with magwell.png
 }}
In handgun, there is currently one division for optical sights and four divisions for iron sights. The minimum caliber is 9×19mm for all handgun divisions. During the competition the handgun must be worn in a [[handgun holster|holster]] securely attached to the competitor's [[Belt (clothing)|belt]]. The holster needs to cover the [[trigger guard]], the heel of the gun needs to be above the top of the belt and the belt has to be attached through at least three belt loops. Men must wear the holster, magazine holders, etc. in the belt at waist level, while female competitors may choose to wear their equipment either at hip or waist level. During the competition the position of the holster, magazine holders etc. can not be moved or adjusted from stage to stage. For all divisions except Open and Revolver the foremost portion of the handgun and all magazines must be placed behind the hip bone. Race holsters are permitted in all divisions.

; Open:
The Open division is the handgun equivalent to the [[Formula One|Formula 1]] race car where most modifications are permitted to achieve a faster and more accurate gun. It's the only division which permits optical and electronic sights (such as [[red dot sight]]s) and recoil reducing [[muzzle brake]]s (also called compensators).<ref name="HGdiv">[http://www.ipsc.org/rules/divlistP.php IPSC:: The Handgun Divisions List]</ref> The division facilitates the highest magazine capacity, placing a restriction of 170&nbsp;mm maximum overall length measured at the rear of any magazine. Shorter magazines, i.e. 140&nbsp;mm, are also popular because of easier handling and often more reliable feeding, leaving the competitor a choice of equipment according to the stage at hand.

Open and Revolver are the only two divisions where 9mm bullets (.355") can be used to achieve major scoring, and hence [[.38 Super]] (or some variant) or [[9×19mm Parabellum|9×19mm]] loaded to major [[Power factor (shooting sports)|power factor]] of 160&nbsp;kgr·ft/s are popular [[Cartridge (firearms)|cartridges]] for the pistols in Open. The 9mm caliber cartridges provides higher gas pressures and better magazine capacity over [[10 mm caliber|10&nbsp;mm calibers]]. Open handguns are often expensive custom builds with parts and features specifically designed for competition, and with the maximum magazine length of 170&nbsp;mm some 9mm/ .38 Super magazines can hold up to 28 or 29 rounds.<ref>{{cite web |title=Infinity Firearms |url=http://www.infinityfirearms.com/1101.php?indx=15 |website=americommerce.com |access-date=March 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160522180907/http://www.infinityfirearms.com/1101.php?indx=15 |archive-date=May 22, 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>[ Infinity Firearms – Magazines]</ref>

The Open division was formally adopted at the General Assembly following the 1992 [[IPSC European Handgun Championship|European Handgun Championship]] in Barcelona, Spain, and became a recognized division starting in 1993.<ref name = "CanadaNo2">[http://www.ipsc-canada.org/diligentia/Diligentia_1992_2.pdf Diligentia – Officiel Newsletter of IPSC Canada, No 2 1992] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304074000/http://www.ipsc-canada.org/diligentia/Diligentia_1992_2.pdf |date=March 4, 2016 }}</ref> Any handguns complying with the previous rules were included, for instance, there was no restriction placed on handgun size or type of sights. Later {{When|date=August 2016}} the 170&nbsp;mm maximum length was introduced.

; Standard:
Standard division allows any handgun that fits inside the IPSC box, and most modifications are permitted (except optical sights or compensators). Light match triggers are common, and modifications such as slide rackers, thumb rests ("gas pedals") and grip tape on the [[Pistol slide|slide]] can sometimes also be seen. The IPSC box has internal dimensions of 225 x 150 x 45&nbsp;mm<ref name="HGdiv"/> in length × height × depth with a tolerance of +1&nbsp;mm, −0&nbsp;mm (approximately 8.86 × 5.91 × 1.77 inches). The handgun must fit with the slide parallel to the longest side of the box and [[Hammer (firearms)|hammer]] cocked if applicable. The handgun must fit the box with any of its magazines inserted, which means that for instance on 2011 pattern pistols either 124 or 126&nbsp;mm magazines usually will give the maximum capacity and still fit the box.

Minimum caliber for minor scoring is 9×19mm loaded to a power factor of 125 kgr·ft/s while minimum caliber for major scoring is a 10mm (.40") cartridge loaded to a power factor of 170 kgr·ft/s, making for an interesting choice between minor and major scoring taken in mind the differences in recoil, magazine capacity and scoring points. An example of differences in magazine capacity depending on caliber can be seen when comparing stock 126&nbsp;mm STI 2011 double-stack magazines, which according to the manufacturer yields a capacity of either 12 rounds for [[.45 ACP]], 14 rounds for [[.40 S&W]] or 17 rounds for [[9×19mm]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://stiguns.com/mag-capacity/ |title=Mag Capacity « STI Guns |access-date=December 7, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170302103814/https://stiguns.com/mag-capacity/ |archive-date=March 2, 2017 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Magazine capacity can be further increased using aftermarket springs, followers and basepads as long as they still fit the box. For a 2011 pattern handgun, aftermarket parts and magazine tuning can increase capacity from 12 to 16 rounds for .45 ACP, from 14 to 19 rounds for .40 S&W and from 17 to 21 rounds for 9×x19 mm. It is a common belief that major scoring using the .40 S&W will give better scores for most competitors over the 9×19mm, but at the cost of more expensive ammunition.

The Standard division was formally adopted at the General Assembly following the 1992 [[IPSC European Handgun Championship|European Handgun Championship]] in Barcelona, Spain, and became a recognized division starting in 1993.<ref name="CanadaNo2"/> One of the intentions of the Standard division was to create a division for more "stock" firearms, which up until then had been no equipment divisions, and the sport had started to become dominated by custom-built race guns with compensators and optical sights. However, the Standard division was later criticized for also having become a "race division" somewhat like the Open division, which was dominated by custom built guns and specialized gear. Major caliber .40 S&W dominates, since it is seen as a much better alternative scoring-wise, but is more expensive than regular minor-scoring 9×19mm (price difference varies, but usually 50–60% more expensive{{citation needed|date=August 2016}}). Also, from a practical standpoint, the .40 S&W round can be difficult to obtain when travelling to international matches, while the 9×19mm round, on the contrary, is perceived as affordable and available all around the world. This made way for the Production division starting in 2000, which has minor scoring only, allows fewer modifications and has a common magazine limit of 15 rounds.

; Production:

The Production division is the most popular division as of 2016. The division allows very few modifications and is limited to typical "off the shelf" [[service pistol]]s which has to be explicitly approved and listed on the IPSC Production Division List. Maximum barrel length is 127&nbsp;mm (5 inches). The handgun must be double-action ([[Trigger (firearms)#Traditional double-action|DA/ SA]], [[Trigger (firearms)#Double-action only|DAO]] or [[Trigger (firearms)#Pre-set .28striker or hammer.29|striker]] fired), and is required to have a minimum trigger pull weight. Striker fired handguns have a minimum trigger pull of 1.36&nbsp;kg for every trigger pull, while DA/SA handguns are required to have a minimum trigger pull of 2.27&nbsp;kg only for the first double action trigger pull (no weight limit for subsequent single action trigger pulls).

Production is the only division with minor scoring only, which means that anyone can be competitive with affordable and readily available 9×19mm factory ammunition, without having to worry about [[handloading]] to provide significant savings. Together with (in general) affordable handguns, Production, therefore, makes for a popular division. Different models of handguns have variance in magazine capacity, but this is evened out by limiting competitors to load their magazines to a maximum of 15 rounds (15 in each magazine plus 1 in the chamber).

Permitted modifications are limited to the application of grip tape in limited areas around the grip, replacement of sights that do not require gunsmithing to be installed (i.e. [[Milling (machining)|milling]] to the slide) and the replacement of internal components only available as a factory option from the original manufacturer. After-market magazines are allowed. Minor polishing and fitting of trigger components is permitted. Note that there are differences in approved handguns for the IPSC Production division and the USPSA Production division, as well as permitted modifications.

From 2019, the Production division has been divided into '''Production''', '''Production Optics''' and '''Production Optics Lite'''. Production Optics is based on the Production rules, but with an optical sight mandated. The optical sight can only be mounted to the un-modified slide. Racking handles or other protuberances from the optical sight or its mounting is not permitted. Production Optics Lite is similar, except that the complete handgun must satisfy a weight limit of 1000 grams

The Production division was introduced at the General Assembly after the [[1999 IPSC Handgun World Shoot|1999 Handgun World Shoot]] in Cebu, Philippines,<ref>[http://www.ipsc.org/pdf/genasm23.pdf Twenty-Third IPSC General Assembly Cebu, Philippines, October 1999] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080828020323/http://www.ipsc.org/pdf/genasm23.pdf |date=August 28, 2008 }}</ref> and became a recognized division starting in 2000. Production Optics was accepted as a trial division in 2017,<ref>[http://www.ipsc.org/pdf/genasm41.pdf Forty-First  IPSC General Assembly Chateauroux, France, August 2017] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201030922/http://www.ipsc.org/pdf/genasm41.pdf |date=December 1, 2017 }}</ref> and both Production Optics and Production Optics Lite were definitively accepted in 2018.

; Classic:
Introduced in 2011, the Classic division was modelled after the USPSA Single Stack division and is limited to handguns visually resembling the single stack [[M1911 pistol|1911]] form. The handgun with any of its magazines inserted has to fit inside the IPSC box. The competitor can choose between maximum 8 rounds per magazine for major scoring or 10 rounds per magazine for minor scoring. Minor scoring can be achieved with a 9mm projectile loaded to a power factor of 125 kgr·ft/s, while major scoring requires a 10mm or larger projectile loaded to a power factor of 170 kgr·ft/s.<ref name="HGdiv"/>

Handguns must have a one-piece metal frame, slide with stirrup cuts and the [[Dust cover (firearms)|dust cover]] (with or without an [[Picatinny rail|accessory rail]]) can have a maximum length of 75&nbsp;mm from the leading edge to the rear of the [[slide stop]] pin. Magazine wells cannot exceed a maximum outside width of 35&nbsp;mm. Permitted modifications are shaped slides (i.e. flat-top or tri-top), shaped trigger guards (i.e. squared or undercut), bob-tail backstraps, bull or coned barrels, external extractors, finger-grooves (machined, add-on, wrap-around, etc.), custom magazine release buttons, triggers, hammers, single/ ambidextrous thumb safeties, any iron sights, extended slide lock levers and thumb shields provided they do not act as a thumb rest. Cosmetic modifications are permitted.

Prohibited modifications / parts are slide lightening cuts, weak hand thumb rests and slide rackers.

; Revolver:
In the Revolver division double action revolvers in caliber 9×19mm or larger of any capacity can be used. Muzzle brakes or optical sights are not permitted. Competitors may declare major with a 9mm (.355") bullet loaded to a power factor of 170,<ref name="HGdiv"/> but a maximum of 6 rounds can be fired before a reload is required. From 2017, there is no limit on the number of rounds fired before a reload is required, but revolvers with a capacity of 7 rounds or more will automatically be scored as Minor power factor. It is common to use [[moon clip]]s for faster reloads. The Revolver division was introduced at the General Assembly after the [[1999 IPSC Handgun World Shoot|1999 Handgun World Shoot]] in [[Cebu]], [[Philippines]], and was a recognized division starting in 2000, initially under the name "Revolver Standard" before it was renamed to "Revolver" around 2009.{{Citation needed|date=July 2016}}

; Modified:
Now obsolete, the Modified division was a mix between Open and Standard. Handguns were allowed to have compensators and optical sights as long as they would fit in the IPSC box with any of its magazine inserted. The Modified division was formally adopted at the General Assembly following the 1992 [[IPSC European Handgun Championship|European Handgun Championship]] in Barcelona, Spain, and became a recognized division starting in 1993.<ref name="CanadaNo2"/> The division saw some use in southern Europe, but was otherwise not very widespread, and was retired after the 2011 World Shoot XVI in [[Rhodes]], Greece. Competitors with Modified handguns would then afterwards compete in Open.

<gallery>
Open division master class competition shooter.jpg|An Open division competitor during a stage in USA.
Standard competitor at the 2013 IPSC Australasian Handgun Championship.jpg|Standard division competitor during a stage in Australia.
IPSC box.png|Measurements of the "IPSC box" used for compliance check with the Handgun Standard and Classic divisions.
Gun powder smoke at the 2013 IPSC Australasian Handgun Championship.jpg|Gunpowder smoke at the 2013 [[IPSC Australasia Handgun Championship|Australasia Handgun Championship]].
IPSC Revolver World Champion Ricardo López Tugendhat from Ecuador.jpg|Three times IPSC Revolver World Champion [[Ricardo López Tugendhat]] from [[Ecuador]].
</gallery>

=== Rifle ===
Important elements in rifle include the use of [[Prone position|prone]], off hand and supported shooting positions. Starting position is usually with the butt of the rifle touching the hip. Knowledge of the firearms [[External ballistics|ballistics]] is a key element to succeed at the [[Long range shooting|long range]] targets.<ref>[http://www.jprifles.com/bulletin/propost_july_2017_01_01.html JP Enterprises BULLETin – Know Your Basic Ballistics]</ref> The recommended balance of target distances is that 30 percent of the targets are placed closer than 60 meters, 50 percent of the targets between 60 and 150 meters and 20 percent of the targets between 150 and 300 meters. Most competitors zero their sights at 200 meters. Being an outdoor sport, the weather can have a profound effect on competitor scores due to wind or different lighting conditions, especially on long range targets. Therefore, top-ranked competitors are often squadded together to achieve the most similar conditions.

There is no minimum caliber, but the ammunition has to make a power factor of 150 kgr·ft/s for minor or 320 kgr·ft/s for major scoring (formerly 160 and 340 kgr·ft/s respectively).<ref>IPSC Rifle Rules 3rd Edition – October 1996, 7.25 Power Ratings: Major 340, Minor 160.</ref><ref>2002 IPSC Rifle Rules, Appendix J: Major 320, Minor 150.</ref> Since two hits per target is normally required, rifles with minor power factor calibers dominate on the shorter ranges in most of the divisions due to less recoil and shorter recoil impulse. Minor ammunition being most common means that anyone can be competitive with affordable and readily available .223 Remington factory ammunition, without having to worry about handloading to make major. Ammunition loaded to major power factor has more recoil and a longer recoil impulse, but have the advantage of better ballistics at [[Long range shooting|long range]] targets. Major scoring may be more competitive in the manual divisions since normally only one hit is required per target, lessening the importance of a small recoil impulse.

In the beginning, competitions were fired with whatever rifle the competitors chose, and while the type of rifles mostly has remained the same sighting systems have changed a lot. In 1990, [[Sverre Idland]] won the [[IPSC Norwegian Rifle Championship|Norwegian rifle championship]] using an Elbit Falcon [[red dot sight]]. Low-power scope sights have been used in competitions since at least 1994, when Bengt Larsson used a Schmidt & Bender 1.1–4x20&nbsp;mm to win the Norwegian Championship.<ref name="triggerfreeze">[https://web.archive.org/web/20160121051600/http://www.triggerfreeze.com/docs/2006/IPSC_Rifle_norway.htm TriggerFreeze.com – IPSC Rifle Norway]</ref> For a while rifles equipped with optics and iron sights competed side by side, but were divided somewhere around the 2000s{{Citation needed|date=August 2016}} into an Open division for optic sights and a Standard division for iron sights. Open and Standard were the only two rifle divisions until the 2004 season when similar divisions were introduced for manually operated mechanisms. The Open and Standard division was then renamed to Semi Auto Open and Semi Auto Standard, while the new manual divisions was named Manual Action Open and Manual Action Standard. Around 2011 a provisional division named "Manual Action Standard 10" was approved for evaluation as a testing ground for development of the Manual divisions.

[[Semi-automatic rifle|Self-loading rifles]] are used in the Semi Auto Open and Semi Auto Standard division, while the manual divisions are limited to manual [[Action (firearms)|action type]]s.

;Semi Auto Open (Open):
Semi Auto Open, usually simply referred to as the "Open division", is the most popular rifle division. Optical sights are allowed together with bipods and muzzle brakes.<ref name="Rdiv">[http://www.ipsc.org/rules/divlistR.php IPSC:: The Rifle Divisions List]</ref> Bipods can be taken on and off during a stage, and on some stages, it can even be advantageous to switch between different bipod sizes. Many top competitors use rifles with 46&nbsp;cm (18-inch) barrels to run the longer rifle length gas system and achieve a softer recoil impulse. An adjustable gas system is popular. Some also use low-mass bolt carriers and buffer weights, which may, however, cause reliability issues if not tuned correctly.

Low-power [[Telescopic sight|scope sights]] with a variable magnification starting at 1x (called [[low-power variable optic]]s, or LPVOs) are popular, with magnifications of 1–6x or 1–8x and daytime bright illuminated reticles are the most popular. Usually, only the center of the reticle is illuminated. Some [[reticle]]s have [[milliradian]]-based wind holds or holdover marks to compensate for wind and bullet drop on long-range targets, while others prefer reticles with a simple dot and crosshair and choose to dial long-range adjustments on the turrets instead.<ref>[https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2017/03/07/champions-opinion-swarovski-z8i-ld-brt-reticles/ A champion's opinion on the Swarovski Z8i LD-I and BRT-I reticles -The Firearm Blog]</ref> Turrets are often exposed and lockable, having ballistic drop compensation (BDC) and a zero stop, while some competitors choose to use capped turrets for the wind adjustment. Important optical characteristics<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.burrisoptics.com/blog/scopes/what-to-look-for-in-an-lpvo |title=What to look for in a Low Power Variable Optic {{!}} Burris Optics |access-date=November 9, 2018 |archive-date=November 9, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181109234652/https://www.burrisoptics.com/blog/scopes/what-to-look-for-in-an-lpvo |url-status=dead }}</ref> are true 1x or 1.1x low-end magnification, while on higher magnification it is important with a large field of view and a large exit pupil. Some other important scope qualities are weight and [[stray light]] performance.

To avoid having to adjust magnification up and down when transitioning between several long and short-range targets during the same stage, some combine a scope with a 45-degree side-mounted red dot optic, but the effectiveness of this is debated, and there are both top competitors who use it and not. For instance, [[Raine Peltokoski]] uses only one optical sight, and in such situations instead uses a technique called "[[occluded eye gunsight|Occluded Eye Aiming]]", where one blocks the objective (i.e. with a lens cover or by hand) so that one only sees the illuminated dot with one eye and the target with the other eye.<ref>[http://www.luckygunner.com/lounge/occluded-eye-aiming/ Lucky Gunner Lounge – Occluded Eye Aiming – Using Your Scope Like a Red Dot]</ref>

Rifles with non-magnified [[red dot sight]]s as the primary optic also compete in Open and are very competitive at short ranges, but the lack of magnification is a big disadvantage at longer ranges.

;Semi Auto Standard (Standard):
[[File:Target coverage by front sight width.png|thumb|right|Table of different front sight post sizes in [[milliradian|mil]] and at what distances the full width of a target would be covered. A sight post that appears wider than the target can make precise aiming difficult, but this can be solved by adjusting the sights up and aiming below the target.]]
The Semi Auto Standard division usually simply referred to as the "Standard division", tests the added skill of using iron sights only. Also, bipods are not allowed and muzzle brakes have to be within the maximum dimensions of 30x90 mm (approx. 1x3.5 inches).<ref name="Rdiv"/> A long sight radius is desirable as it helps even target and sight focus due to larger [[depth of field]], and thus iron-sighted rifles often have longer [[Gun barrel|barrel]]s with the front sight attached to the end of it. Many Standard top competitors use the longer 50&nbsp;cm (20") barrel over the 46&nbsp;cm (18") to achieve longer sight radius. Any [[iron sights]] can be used, and both "[[Globe sight|globe]]" and "post" front sights are popular, as well as [[Aperture sight|aperture]], ghost ring or [[diopter sight|diopter]] rear sights.

;Manual Action Open (Manual Open):
The manual divisions test the added skill of using a manual action, meaning that the rifles must be operated by physical manipulation, with some examples being [[bolt action|bolt]], [[pump action|pump]] or [[Straight-pull rifles|straight pull]] actions. Manual Action Open, usually simply referred to as the "Manual Open division", allows optical sights, muzzle brakes and bipods.<ref name="Rdiv"/> Turn bolt actions require the competitor to perform both rotational and linear motions during the loading cycle, while pump- and straight-pull actions can be cycled back and forward without rotation of the bolt handle by the competitor. This reduces the number of movements from four to two, but comes at the cost of often having either poor or no [[primary extraction]].<ref>[https://www.forgottenweapons.com/swiss-straight-pull-first-impressions/ Swiss Straight-Pull First Impressions – Forgotten Weapons]</ref><ref>[https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/2017/05/11/break-case-visceral-illustration-primary-extraction-bloke-range/ Break That Case: A Visceral Illustration of Primary Extraction, with Bloke on the Range – The Firearm BlogThe Firearm Blog]</ref> increasing the risk of malfunctions.{{citation needed|date=September 2018}} A turn bolt action on the other hand has a mechanical advantage used during chambering and primary extraction, which makes for more reliable feeding and extraction. Both types of mechanisms have won championships. Bolt action rifles usually also have a much shorter [[lock time]] than hammer fired pump and straight-pull actions, which can play a significant role in accuracy on long-range targets.

;Manual Action Standard (Manual Standard):
Manual Action Standard, usually simply referred to as the "Manual Standard division", is limited to iron sights only, and no muzzle brakes or bipods are allowed.<ref name="Rdiv"/> Manual Action Standard 10 (MAS10) (between 2012 and 2017) was a trial division that allowed iron sights only, a magazine capacity of 11 rounds (10 in the magazine plus 1 in the chamber) and factory-fitted muzzle brakes only.<ref name="Rdiv"/>

<gallery>
File:Ashley Rheuark at the 2017 IPSC Rifle World Shoot.jpg|Long guns (rifles and shotguns) must have a brightly colored [[chamber flag]] inserted when the firearm is not in use.
File:Open division competitor at the 2017 IPSC Rifle World Shoot.jpg|Rifles fitted with optics and bipods compete in the Open division.
File:Visierlinie.jpg|In the Standard divisions only iron sights are allowed, and bipods are not permitted.
File:Russian Manual Open competitor at the 2017 IPSC Rifle World Shoot.jpg|In the Manual divisions, rifles must be operated by physical manipulation. Examples are bolt (pictured above), pump- or straight-pull action.
</gallery>

=== Shotgun ===
[[File:Daniel Horner at a match in South Carolina 2017.jpg|thumb|right|[[Daniel Horner]] firing his shotgun at a flying clay target during a match in South Carolina, US in 2017.]]
Starting position is usually with the shotgun in one hand and the butt of the shotgun touching the hip. There is only one power factor of 480 kgr·ft/s, and all targets are scored as major which means that anyone can be competitive with affordable and readily available [[Gauge (bore diameter)|12 gauge]] 70&nbsp;mm ({{frac|2|3|4}}") ammunition. Different options on [[Choke (firearms)|shotgun chokes]]<ref>[http://www.practical-shotgun.com/chokes Chokes for Practical Shotgun – Practical-Shotgun.com]</ref> and [[Shotgun shell|ammunition]] (from different [[Shot (pellet)|pellet]] sizes and up to [[Shotgun slug|slugs]]) makes for interesting choke and ammunition choices based on the stage at hand where the competitor has to consider the spread of the choke relative to the distance. All divisions have limits of the number of shells loaded at the beginning of the stage, but the limits are removed after the start signal. For instance, some may choose to run 10 or 11 round tubes in the Standard division which is limited to 9 rounds in the tube at the start signal.

;Open:
The Open division allows optical sights, muzzle brakes, and is the only division that permits detachable magazines or the use of speed loaders for tube magazines. The maximum overall length of the shotgun is 1320&nbsp;mm (approximately 52 in) measured parallel to the barrel.<ref name="SGdiv">[http://www.ipsc.org/rules/divlistS.php IPSC:: The Shotgun Divisions List]</ref> Detachable magazines must not contain more than 10 rounds at the start signal, while shotguns with fixed magazines may have an initial load of 14 rounds. After the start signal detachable magazines can be loaded up 12 rounds, while there is no limit for tube magazines.

;Modified:
The Modified division allows muzzle brakes and optical sights, but is limited to internal tube magazines. The maximum overall length of the shotgun is 1320&nbsp;mm.<ref name="SGdiv"/> Modifications of the floor plate to facilitate loading is permitted, given that the modification doesn't exceed 75&nbsp;mm in length or protrudes more than 32&nbsp;mm from the shotgun frame in any direction. Maximum 14 rounds can be loaded at the start signal (13+1, 13 in the tube plus 1 in the chamber), but more can be loaded after the start signal. Until 2017 the division was limited to iron sights, but from 2018 optical sights are permitted.<ref>[https://www.practical-shotgun.com/proposed-shotgun-rule-changes-2017 Shotgun rule changes passed by vote at 2017 IPSC General Assembly – Practical-Shotgun.com]</ref><ref>[https://www.ipsc.org/pdf/RulesShotgun.pdf IPSC Shotgun Competition Rules – Jan 2018 Edition] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071030234154/https://www.ipsc.org/pdf/RulesShotgun.pdf |date=October 30, 2007 }}</ref>

;Standard:
The standard division is the most popular division as of 2017.<ref>[http://www.rem870.com/2016/11/26/practical-shotgun-shooting-for-beginners-part-1-divisions-ready-conditions-basic-upgrades/ Practical Shotgun Shooting (IPSC) for Beginners, Part 1 (Divisions, Ready Conditions, Basic Upgrades)]</ref> The division is limited to iron sights and internal tube magazines, and muzzle brakes are not allowed. The shotgun model has to be factory produced of at least 500 units.<ref name="SGdiv"/> Maximum 9 rounds can be loaded at the start signal (8+1, 8 in the tube plus 1 in the chamber), but more can be loaded after the start signal.

;Standard Manual (Manual):
The Standard Manual division, usually simply referred to as the "Manual division", is the only shotgun division limited to manual actions. Limited to iron sights, internal tube magazines, and no muzzle brakes, the shotgun model has to be factory produced of at least 500 units.<ref name="SGdiv"/> Maximum 9 rounds can be loaded at the start signal (8+1, 8 in the tube plus 1 in the chamber), but more can be loaded after the start signal.

<gallery>
File:Vepr-12 ARMS & Hunting 2012 01.jpg|Shotguns with detachable magazines, like this [[Vepr-12]], is only allowed in Open division.
File:ARMS & Hunting 2010 exhibition (331-04).jpg|Since this shotgun has an internal magazine, compensator and iron sights, it could be used in the Modified division.
File:ARMS & Hunting 2013 exhibition (529-27).jpg|The upmost pump shotgun is approved for Standard Manual division, while the semi Auto Shotgun in the middle is approved for the regular Standard division.
File:ShotgunAction.JPG|Double-barreled shoguns are also approved for Manual Standard division.
File:Shotgun choke.svg|Illustration of different [[Choke (firearms)|choke]] constrictions.
</gallery>

=== Other ===
* Tournaments are [[multi gun|2 or 3-Gun]] matches which can include any combination of the three disciplines handgun, rifle and shotgun in the same match. There are default Grand Tournament divisions, but match organizers may also declare their own specific Grand Tournament divisions. In addition to the main disciplines (handgun, rifle and shotgun) there are also some supplemental disciplines:
* Mini-Rifle is for small caliber rifles ([[.22 Long Rifle|.22 LR]] only) with minor power factor scoring only, and competitions are mostly held indoors in the winter as training in the off-season.
* Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC) is for pistol caliber rifles only ([[9×19mm Parabellum|9×19mm]], [[.40 S&W]], [[.45 ACP]], etc.,) with minor power factor scoring only. The Carbine division can be held up to level 3, and either as a standalone match or as a separate division in a regular Handgun, Rifle or Mini Rifle matches.
* [[IPSC Action Air|Action Air]] is for airsoft handguns, and enjoys popularity in countries where civilian ownership of firearms are restricted. Minor power factor scoring only. Action Air is also used in the off-season in other countries as an affordable and easily available training tool because there is no need for a [[shooting range]] (competitions can, for instance, be held at an ordinary gym)

== Safety ==
{{multiple image
 | width = 150
 | footer = [[Eye protection|Eye]] and [[Hearing protection device|ear protection]] is mandatory for both competitors and spectators.
 | image1 = ISO 7010 M004.svg
 | image2 = DIN 4844-2 D-M003.svg
 }}
The safety of all competitors, officials, and spectators are always of the highest importance in competitions. Eye and ear protection are mandatory for both competitors and spectators. Firearms are kept unloaded until on the firing line under the direct supervision of a Range Officer, and can otherwise only be handled in designated [[Safety area (shooting)|safety area]]s. The safety area contains a direction with a secure backstop where competitors can handle unloaded firearms for example for packing or unpacking, holstering, cleaning or repair, dry firing or training with empty magazines. Handling of ammunition is expressively prohibited within the safety areas, including any dummy rounds. Outside the safety area, ammunition can be handled freely to load magazines, but firearms may only be handled under the direct supervision of a Range Officer. The strict separation of firearms and ammunition prevents accidents like [[accidental discharge]] (AD). Violations result in disqualification from the competition.

== Matches ==
=== Types of courses ===
[[File:Shooting area for an IPSC stage at the 2017 IPSC Rifle World Shoot.jpg|thumb|right|Walls and Fault Lines on the ground are used to define the boundary of the shooting area used during the Course of Fire.]]

A match consists of a mix between short courses (lowest number of targets), medium and long courses (highest number of targets). The approved balance for a match is a ratio of 3 short courses to 2 medium courses and 1 long course (i.e. 6 short, 4 medium and 2 long courses for a level 3 match). Since the number of targets dictates the available points for that stage, and therefore Long courses potentially can have a have great impact on the overall standings. Short courses have fewer points available, and tend not to be as critical for the overall standings. Short courses are often more technical, offer many different stage solutions, or include challenging elements such as "empty chamber" or "empty magazine well" starts, or "non-freestyle shooting" elements such as strong or weak hand only. Medium courses are something in between, while long courses will have the highest round count. Long courses tend to be more freestyle and straightforward as far as different stage solutions. The shooting challenges may still not necessarily be easy, and a match can be lost or won at a long course since there are so many points available.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Discipline
! Short Course
! Medium Course
! Long Course
|-
| Handgun, can require up to minimum
| 12 rounds
| 24 rounds
| 32 rounds
|-
| Rifle, can require up to minimum
|10 rounds <br />(5 for Manual)
|20 rounds <br />(10 for Manual)
|40 rounds <br />(20 for Manual)
|-
| Shotgun, can require up to minimum
| 8 rounds, <br />maximum 12 scoring hits
| 16 rounds, <br />maximum 24 scoring hits
| 28 rounds, <br />maximum 32 scoring hits
|-
|}

=== Match levels ===
[[File:Opening Ceremony 2017 IPSC Rifle World Shoot.jpg|thumb|right|The opening ceremony at the [[2017 IPSC Rifle World Shoot]] in Russia.]]
Competitions are held at all levels from club matches and up to the world championships.<ref>[http://www.ipsc.org/matches/ratings.php IPSC:: IPSC Match Ratings]</ref> Level 3 matches and up require official IPSC pre-approved match level sanctioning in regards to courses, IROA-range official, etc.

* Level 1: Club matches
* Level 2: Matches open to participants from different clubs
* Level 3: Regional matches, i.e. [[national championship]]s or other large matches such as the [[Extreme Euro Open]]
* Level 4: Continental championships, i.e. the European or Pan-American Championship
* Level 5: The [[IPSC World Shoots (disambiguation)|World Shoots]]<!--intentional link to DAB page-->

The World Shoots are the highest level shooting matches within IPSC. Held since 1975,<ref>[http://www.ipsc.org/results/hoc.php IPSC:: History of Champions]</ref> it is a multi-day match where the best IPSC shooters from around the world compete for the World Champion title.

=== Match etiquette ===
''Walkthrough'' refers to being inside the fault lines of a stage when not shooting, and is usually done by competitors for finalizing stage plans. Walkthroughs are restricted for equity reasons. Competitors are not allowed to enter or walk on the stages on their own initiative, but must be invited to do so by the Range Officer first after having received the stage briefing. After the stage brief, the squad as a whole is normally given between 3 and 5 minutes to walk the particular stage collectively. Afterwards, the command ''Time's up'' is given, upon which the first shooter is asked to load and make ready.

''[[On-deck]]'' refers to the competitor first in line waiting to shoot. The shooter second in line is referred to as being ''in-the-hole''. During scoring of the preceding shooter, the shooter on deck is usually allowed to take a final walkthrough.

So as not to disturb, spectators and other competitors should be still and remain silent while a competitor is preparing to shoot as well as during shooting.

After a competitor has performed well on a stage it is common to receive soft applause. Such quiet clapping is the preferred form of applause for shooters; louder forms of applause are discouraged so as not to disturb other shooters who may be in the process of attempting a stage. Shoot-Off's are an exception to this.

After having completed a stage and received scores it is common for the competitor to thank and shake hands with the Range Officer.

Competitors are divided into Squads that rotate between the Courses of Fire. A Super Squad refers to a Squad of elite and top-seeded competitors who are among the favorites to win a match. They often consist of two or more national teams who are handpicked by their respective national sport directors. Match favorites are required to be placed in Super Squads so that they get the most similar conditions.

=== Shoot-Off ===
A Shoot-Off is an audience-friendly duel shooting organized as a [[Single-elimination tournament|knock-out tournament]] where the shooters compete 1-on-1 and the winners advance further towards finals. It is usually held at major events after the main-match, and the best shooters from the main-match are eligible to participate. It is often shot at falling targets such as poppers, and to win a shooter must knock down all their falling targets and reach their stop target before the other competitor. Dependent on schedule, quarter, semi, bronze and gold finals may be held.

Tournament bracket from the Shoot-Off at the [[2019 IPSC Rifle World Shoot|2019 Rifle World Shoot]]:
{{8TeamBracket
| sets = 1/1/3
| seeds = no
| RD1 = Quarter-finals
| RD1-seed1   = 1
| RD1-team1   = {{flagicon|Finland}} [[Jarkko Laukia]]
| RD1-score1  = 
| RD1-seed2   = 5
| RD1-team2   = {{flagicon|Sweden}} Olle Ackehed
| RD1-score2  = I
| RD1-seed3   = 2
| RD1-team3   = {{flagicon|Finland}} [[Raine Peltokoski]]
| RD1-score3  = I
| RD1-seed4   = 6
| RD1-team4   = {{flagicon|USA}} [[Tim Yackley]]
| RD1-score4  = 
| RD1-seed5   = 3
| RD1-team5   = {{flagicon|Russia}} Vadim Mikhailov
| RD1-score5  = 
| RD1-seed6   = 7
| RD1-team6   = {{flagicon|Sweden}} Marcus Madsen
| RD1-score6  = I
| RD1-seed7   = 4
| RD1-team7   = {{flagicon|Finland}} [[Teemu Rintala]]
| RD1-score7  = I
| RD1-seed8   = 7
| RD1-team8   = {{flagicon|USA}} Kyle Litzie
| RD1-score8  = 
| RD2 = Semi-finals
| RD2-seed1   = 1
| RD2-team1   = {{flagicon|Sweden}} Olle Ackehed
| RD2-score1  = I
| RD2-seed2   = 1
| RD2-team2   = {{flagicon|Finland}} [[Raine Peltokoski]]
| RD2-score2  = 
| RD2-seed3   = 1
| RD2-team3   = {{flagicon|Sweden}} Marcus Madsen
| RD2-score3  = I
| RD2-seed4   = 1
| RD2-team4   = {{flagicon|Finland}} [[Teemu Rintala]]
| RD2-score4  = 
| RD3 = Finals
| RD3-seed1   = 1
| RD3-team1   = [[File:Silver medal world centered-2.svg|20x20px]] {{flagicon|Sweden}} Marcus Madsen
| RD3-score1-1= I
| RD3-score1-2= 
| RD3-score1-3= 
| RD3-seed2   = 1
| RD3-team2   = [[File:Gold medal world centered-2.svg|20x20px]] {{flagicon|Sweden}} Olle Ackehed
| RD3-score2-1= 
| RD3-score2-2= I
| RD3-score2-3= I
}}

Shoot-Offs can be decided by small margins. At the [[2018 IPSC Shotgun World Shoot|2018 Shotgun World Shoot]], U.S. shooter Scott Greene and Russian Roman Anikin both fired their last shots almost simultaneously, but Greene had chosen a more constricted barrel [[Choke (firearms)|choke]]. This gave a tighter shot pattern and a greater risk of missing, but ultimately lead to his target falling faster to win the Shoot-Off.

=== Match officials ===
The [[International Range Officers Association]] (IROA) is a part of IPSC with the responsibility to train and certify their own dedicated range officials, who are responsible for conducting matches [[firearm safety|safely]], fair and according to the rules. In addition, each IPSC region have their own National Range Officers Institute (NROI) under the IROA. In a match range officials from IROA and NROI can work alongside in the ranks:

* '''Range Officer (RO)''' – The Range Officer gives the competitors stage briefings, issue range commands and follows the competitor through the conduction of the stage to monitor time, scores and safe firearms handling.
* '''Chief Range Officer (CRO)''' – In case there are several Range Officers, a Chief Range Officer will be assigned to have the primary authority over the particular course. Like the RO, the CRO will oversee fair and consistent application of the rules.
* '''Range Master (RM)''' – The Range Master has the overall authority over the entire range during the match, including all Match Officials and the overall safety.
* '''Match Director (MD)''' handles the overall match administration before and during the match, including registration, squadding, scheduling, range construction and coordination of the staff. The Match Director doesn't have to be an NROI or IROA Official. 
* '''Stats Officer (SO)''' is another important role with the responsibility to collect, sort and verify the final results.

Design of stages can be done with various tools such as pen and paper or digital software. There are also physical miniature models in 1:25 scale that can be used so that several persons can design and discuss stages and exercises by hand.

=== Coaches and instructors ===
The Main International Shooting Instructors Association (MISIA) is a part of IPSC with the responsibility to train and certify their own dedicated safety instructors and coaches,<ref>[http://www.practical-shotgun.com/ipsc-missia-accreditation-instructors IPSC MISSIA – accreditation for instructors – Practical-Shotgun.com]</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?client=2-1585-0-0-0&sID=280263&&news_task=DETAIL&articleID=62226995 |title=MASTER INTERNATIONAL SHOOTING SAFETY INSTRUCTORS ASSOCIATION (MISSIA) FIRST SEMINAR – AUSTRALIA – Shooting Association Fiji – S |access-date=December 20, 2018 |archive-date=December 20, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181220231004/http://websites.sportstg.com/assoc_page.cgi?client=2-1585-0-0-0&sID=280263&&news_task=DETAIL&articleID=62226995 |url-status=dead }}</ref> providing supervision and training for both team and individual players. Safety instructors conduct mandatory safety training programs, while coaches are involved in administration, athletic and shooting training, competition coaching as well as representation of practical shooting teams and players.

== Competitor ranking ==
[[File:IPSC Handgun World Champion Eric Grauffel at the 2007 IPSC European Handgun Championship.jpg|thumb|right|Six times IPSC Handgun World Champion [[Eric Grauffel|Éric Grauffel]] from France, pictured at the 2007 [[IPSC European Handgun Championship|European Handgun Championship]], [[Cheval-Blanc, Vaucluse|Cheval-Blanc]] in France.]]

The official '''ICS''' classification system ('''I'''PSC '''C'''lassification '''S'''ystem) allows athletes to be ranked both nationally and internationally based on previous results. Competitors are ranked from top to bottom as either Grand Master, Master, A, B, C or D.<ref>[http://www.ipsc.org/classification/ IPSC.org:: Classifications]</ref> This way, shooters can measure progress and compare themselves with other shooters of the same classification in the match results. A classification is division-specific, and an athlete may, therefore, have different classifications in different divisions.

To be classified, you must first register an ICS alias which must be used when signing up for matches. An athlete is then classified within a division after the 4 first classification results. A classification result can be achieved in three ways:
* By shooting a standardized '''CLS''' stage ('''Cl'''assifier '''S'''tage), for example on a club training.
* By competing in a match containing a standardized CLS stage.
* By competing in a "classification match", which means a level 3 match with at least 10 participants within the division, and where at least 30% of the participants in that division already are classified. (A classification match does not have to contain a CLS stage.)

Once initial classification has been achieved, the classification will be updated based on the average of the 4 best of the 8 last results. The ICS system is dynamic, and can change based on the results being reported. For example, a result from a CLS stage will at any given time be calculated based on the highest hit factor ever shot for that particular CLS stage. In order to maintain their classification, an athlete each calendar year at least have to achieve a result in either one classification match or two CLS stages.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Class
! Percent
|-
|'''Grand Master'''
|95–100%
|-
|'''Master'''
|85–94.9%
|-
|'''A'''
|75–84.9%
|-
|'''B'''
|60–74.9%
|-
|'''C'''
|40–59.9%
|-
|'''D'''
|2–40%
|-
|}

IPSC Rating.com is a third party multiplayer<ref>[https://cs.stanford.edu/people/paulliu/files/www-2021-elor.pdf Elo-MMR: A Rating System for Massive Multiplayer Competitions]</ref> [[Elo rating system|Elo rating]] service based on performance in actual competitions and advanced rating algorithms. Results from IPSC level 3, 4 and 5 matches plus major USPSA matches are processed, with the last IPSC World Shoot as the most trusted and representative source.<ref>[http://www.ipscrating.com/about IPSC shooters rating – About]</ref> Scores of competitors in other matches are compared to known "key competitors" who are already rated to achieve global rating percents. To be ranked one must compete in at least two level 3 matches, and old results will expire if they are not updated with following matches.

== See also ==
* [[List of shooting sports organizations]]
* [[Shooting sports]]

== References ==
{{reflist}}

== External links ==
* {{official website}}
* [http://www.facebook.com/IPSCWorld Official Facebook page of the International Practical Shooting Confederation]
* [http://www.scoringservices.org/Mobile/ClassByHgDiv.html#mainView ICS Ranking], the official IPSC competitor ranking service
* [http://www.ipscrating.com/ ipscrating.com], an unofficial third party ranking service

{{IPSC Championships}}
{{IPSC Regions}}

{{International Sports Federations}}
{{Portal bar|Sport}}

[[Category:International Practical Shooting Confederation| ]]
[[Category:International sports organizations]]
[[Category:Shooting sports organizations]]
[[Category:Handgun shooting sports]]
[[Category:Rifle shooting sports]]
[[Category:Shotgun shooting sports]]