Thx all.
I shot my first IPSC match this Saturday and it was so fun it ought to be illegal.
One of the things that really helped, much as I hate saying it, was seeing a couple previous shooters in the squad miss repeatedly in the very first stage, which was a field of steel targets. And while my heart was still pounding at the line, there was some comfort in knowing I wouldn't shoot *that* badly, at least, and I didn't. After that I relaxed, and really had fun.
Some targets, for example some steel plates on one stage, were very tight, and after missing, I did have to suck it up, take some time, and get a 'real' sight picture; on other targets sometimes I "saw what I needed to see" to quote a previous suggestion.
I ended up exactly in the middle of my division (L10), and learned a great, great deal. The folks in the squad were extremely friendly, and I received plenty of advice. It was also fascinating to watch two GM shooters work the course, in the next squad over.
Oh, I did order "The Book", as well as a Dillon press from this sight. And joined USPSA. Unfortunately my d*mn Kimber is broken -- at least it waited until I cleaned it after the match(!). Thumb-safety broke right where it enters the frame, but a replacement is in the mail, and I look forward to practicing with a purpose. The truly appreciate the advice here -- this is quite a resource!