CODeeno

If you already have something that you are comfortable with (9mm, .40, or .45) - my suggestion is to start with it in, Production or limited. When I got started, I thought, my Sig P220 would be a nice place to start - nope. .45 with a single stack mag and not in the Single Stack division. But, like you I asked questions before hand and did some research. I narrowed it down to an M&P Pro or Springfield XDM - either in .40. I shot them both and they felt and performed about the same to me. So it came down to the fact that the Springfield came with the basics to get me through a match. I added an extra double magazine carrier and that set up ran me for a few years, then I upgraded to a better holster and better magazine pouches. I ran a solid 4-ish years and that gun ran like a champ! Good luck! Dean

I also recommend House of Hearing - they have outstanding service! I shot for 4 years with silicone molded plugs. They were great, except when I started RO'ing more - then I would have to pop one loose to hear conversation and scoring could be a challenge. As an RO - I would also double up when I was running an open shooter with a comp. I'd use my molded plugs and a set of muffs. I just got my electronic ones from House of Hearing - but - haven't gotten to try them out yet this year - people say they are great Good luck Dean