To the International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) Executive Director and HQ team,
We, the undersigned members of the shooting community, respectfully submit this petition to request the inclusion of mini red dot sights (MRDS) in the Back-Up Gun (BUG) Division. The addition of MRDS would modernize the division and help align it with current trends in defensive pistol training and competitive shooting. Specifically, we request approval of one of the following options:
Option 1:
Add MRDS to BUG Division while leaving all other existing rules of the division unchanged.
OR
Option 2:
Add MRDS to BUG Division and change the round count to 6 in the first magazine, with 15 rounds in two subsequent magazines. The firearm must still fit in the IDPA BUG test box but with the smallest magazine inserted. This change reflects the way many shooters carry micro compacts for concealed carry, with a larger magazine as a secondary.
Rationale for the Proposed Changes:
• Modernization of Equipment: The use of MRDS has become increasingly common with defensive firearms for their ability to improve target acquisition and shooting accuracy. Allowing MRDS in BUG Division would bring the competition rules in line with modern defensive shooting practices.
• Fair Competition and Safety: By allowing MRDS, we are not changing the core nature of the BUG Division. The small size and concealability requirements remain intact, ensuring the division continues to challenge shooters in terms of both skill and equipment choices.
• Round Count Adjustment (Option 2): The proposed round count change addresses the balance between the compact nature of a BUG firearm and the capabilities of commonly carried microcompact firearms. The six-round first magazine and 15 round subsequent magazines would give shooters an interesting challenge and necessitate differing stage plans than either the 10 or 15rd capacity divisions. This change would add another dynamic to the sport.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, adding MRDS to the BUG Division, whether with or without the round count adjustment, would provide a modern and more competitive experience for all participants. We believe that the inclusion of MRDS will enhance the shooting experience while preserving the integrity and challenge of the BUG Division
We respectfully request the IDPA Executive Director and HQ team consider and approve one of the two proposed options for the enhancement of the Back-Up Gun Division. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Joe Bawden, A178788