I'm a brand new member to USPSA and as you-all can see this is my 1st post on this forum. I've skimmed over some of the posts on pg #1. This is my biggest concern.
I do have a USPSA Safety check card that was issued to me in the summer of 2009 after completing a ISPC 101 class hosted by the USPSA guys at my club.
I will be honest, the main reason I took the class with my then 19 yr old son was because he had enlisted in the ARMY and I wanted to become skilled in the use of a Beretta 92F. My son made it home safe and sound after a tour in Afghanistan. Like it or not - that's what I did.
Anyways, after that class I did not shoot any other matches. Now I'm returning to the sport and I have been working with a close friend to get in some range time before I just show up at a USPSA match with my brand new semi-shinny Glock 35, a bunch of mag pouches on my new velcro double belt, and a 7 1/2 yr old safety check card and say, "hi guys! remember me?" Know what I mean?
For people on my side of the fence - outside looking in - there is a measure of uneasiness and cautiousness in even showing up at a USPSA match.
What is leading me back to USPSA? My friend who is willing to mentor and encourage me. I have been going over all of the newbie intro info on this website and the NW Section website, taking the online exams and carefully studying the questions I get wrong. There has been more than one change to the rules since I "qualified". I'm trying not to drive my buddy bat shit crazy asking questions. I've read and re-read my new rule book plus I've done a lot of online studying.
My point being, you-all are ambassadors to this sport be it good or bad. And like my other hobby (ham radio) the best growth is thru one on one mentor-ship.
VR, Don