For what it's worth, here's the take of someone new interested in shooting some USPSA and IDPA matches. USPSA seems more geared toward specialized guns and gear, whereas IDPA leans more toward common, less modified guns and gear. The obvious resistance to a new Compact Class is quite evident here. As the OP stated new classes have been added as USPSA felt necessary. Were people as opposed to PCC and Carry Optics? These are fairly new classes, far as I can tell. It, also, seems they're well received. At least by those shooting these classes. Some have advocated for 3 classes. How many shooters would walk away if that were to happen? Some have said a Compact Class isn't necessary as these guns fit in existing classes. What about PCC and Carry Optics? I assume Carry Optic came about so people could shoot with an optic, but not be forced to shoot in Open. Some have said spend the money on equipment and guns to be more competitive. Not everyone is in a position to do so. To plow $2000. or more into a rig to shoot 1 class in USPSA is out of the question for many. I frequent a local gun shop that does a huge business (they have 5 stores). I see 10+ guns sold at any given time. I see no Q5s, G34s, etc being sold. Although I'm sure they do in lesser numbers. They stock these as well as STI 2011s. What I see being sold are Sig P320s, G19s & 17s, PPQs, CZ P10s, etc. If a small percentage of these buyers were inclined to shoot a match, they'd show up with their new compact handgun. When they find out IDPA has a class that their gun fits into nicely, I suspect they'll go there. Some here have said as much; "Go shoot IDPA". That seems to me to be a pretty condescending attitude. If you want to grow your sport you need new shooters. Even sustaining it requires new shooters. Push them away and you may find the USPSA shrinking, going forward.
So here's my big take away. If this thread is even remotely representative of the USPSA membership, you all don't seem to care if people choose to shoot with IDPA. You feel no need to accommodate anyone that may want to shoot their new, possibly first, compact handgun in your match. I understand the OP's point and forward thinking. More and more people are buying handguns these days, and may want to try competing. When they come to USPSA and are forced to compete against purpose built guns, many will turn away. Some will "suck it up". Some may even spend the money on "competitive equipment". But I suspect many more will walk away or turn to IDPA. If that's what you want, turn your backs on them and get your wish.
To ITrain7281, I applaud your thinking on this issue. You asked for suggestions. Possibly, at the very least, compact guns could be allowed to compete as a sub category, shooting minor PF, but be awarded major PF scoring?
