1 Course Design
1.1 General Principles
1.1.1 Safety - Practical Shooting matches must be designed, constructed and
conducted with due consideration to safety.
1.1.2 Quality - Courses of fire must be designed primarily to test a competitor’s
Practical Shooting skills, not their physical abilities.
1.1.3 Balance - Accuracy and Speed are equivalent elements of Practical Shooting.
A properly balanced course of fire will depend largely upon the nature of the
challenges presented therein, however, courses must be designed, and Practical
Shooting matches must be conducted in such a way, as to evaluate these elements
equally.
1.1.4 Diversity - While it is not necessary to construct new courses for each match,
no single course of fire must be repeated to allow its use to be considered a definitive
measure of Practical Shooting skills.
1.1.5 Freestyle - Competitors must be permitted to solve the challenge presented in
a freestyle manner, and to shoot targets on an "as and when visible" basis. Courses of
fire must not dictate a shooting position, location or stance. However, conditions may
be created, and barriers or other physical limitations may be constructed, to compel a
competitor into shooting positions, locations or stances.
1.1.6 Difficulty - No shooting challenge may be appealed as being prohibitive.
1.2 Types of Courses
1.2.1 General Courses of Fire
1.2.1.1 “Short Courses” must not require more than 12 rounds to complete and no
more than 2 shooting locations.
1.2.1.2 "Medium Courses" must not require more than 24 rounds to complete and
no more than 3 shooting locations.
1.2.1.3 "Long Courses" must not require more than 42 rounds to complete.
IAPS Practical Shooting Rules – 2008 Edition 5/52
1.2.1.4 Course design and construction must not require more than 8 scoring hits
from any single location or view, nor allow a competitor to shoot all targets in the
course of fire from any single location or view.
1.2.1.5 The recommended balance for a Practical Shooting match is a ratio of 3
Short Courses to 2 Medium Courses to 1 Long Course.
1.2.2 Special Courses of Fire
1.2.2.1 Courses may include mandatory reloads and may dictate a shooting
position or stance. They may specify shooting with the strong hand or weak hand.
The specified hand must be used exclusively from the point stipulated for the
remainder of the string or stage.
1.3 IAPS Sanctioning
1.3.1 Match organizers wishing to receive IAPS sanctioning must comply with the
general principles of course design and course construction as well as all other current
Practical Shooting Rules and regulations relevant to the discipline. Courses of fire that
do not comply with the Practical Shooting basic principle must publish their rules and
must not be publicized or announced as IAPS sanctioned matches.
2 Course Construction and Modification
2.1 General Regulations
2.1.1 Physical Construction - Safety considerations in the design, physical
construction, and stated requirements for any course of fire are the responsibility of
the host organization subject to the approval of the Range Master. Course design
should prevent inadvertent unsafe actions wherever possible. Consideration must be
given to the operation of any course of fire to provide suitable access for officials
supervising the competitors.
2.1.2 Safe Angles of Fire - Courses of fire must always be constructed taking into
account safe angles of fire. Consideration must be given to safe target and frame
construction and the angle of any possible ricochets. Where appropriate the physical
dimensions and suitability of backstops and side berms must be determined as part of
the construction process.
2.1.3 Minimum Distances - Whenever metal targets are used in a course of fire,
precautions must be taken so that competitors and Match Officials maintain a
minimum distance from them while they are being shot in case of BBs return.
2.1.4 Target Locations - When a course is constructed to include target locations
other than immediately downrange, organizers and officials must protect or restrict
surrounding areas to which competitors, officials or spectators have access. Targets
must be arranged so that shooting at them on an “as and when visible” basis will not
cause competitors to breach safe angles of fire.
2.1.5 Range Surface - Where possible, the range surface must be prepared prior to
the match, and be kept moderately clear of debris during the match, to provide
reasonable safety for competitors and officials. Consideration should be given to the
possibility of inclement weather and competitor actions.
2.1.6 Obstacles - Natural or created obstacles in a course of fire should reasonably
allow for variations in competitors' height and physical build and should be constructed
to provide reasonable safety for all competitors, Match Officials and spectators.
2.1.7 Common Firing Lines - Courses of fire where multiple competitors are required
to fire simultaneously from a common firing line, must provide a minimum of 1.5
meters of free space between each competitor.
2.1.8 Target Placement
2.1.8.1 Care must be taken with the physical placement of a paper target to prevent
a “shoot through”.
2.1.8.2 Target placement should be clearly marked on the target stands for target
replacement and target stands should be securely fixed or their locations should be
clearly marked on the range surface to ensure consistency throughout the entire
match. Furthermore, target types should be specified and identified on the target
frames or stands prior to the start of the match to ensure that a scoring target is not
interchanged with a penalty target after the match has commenced.
2.1.8.3 When paper and metal targets are used in close proximity in a course of fire,
care must be taken to minimize the risk of splatter from metal targets.
2.1.8.4 When metal targets are used in a course of fire, care should be taken to
ensure that the location or foundation area is prepared to provide consistent
operation throughout the match.
2.2 Course Construction Criteria
2.2.1 Fault Lines - Competitor movement should preferably be restricted through the
use of physical barriers, however, the use of Fault Lines is permitted. Fault Lines
should be constructed of wooden boards or other suitable material and should rise at
least 2 centimeters above ground level. This will provide both physical and visible
references to competitors to prevent inadvertent faulting. Fault Lines must be fixed
firmly in place to ensure they remain consistent throughout the match.
2.2.1.1 Fault Lines are used to force the competitor to shoot at targets from behind
physical barriers. They may be positioned at any angle extending to the rear of these
barriers. Fault Lines should be a minimum of 1 meter in length and unless otherwise
stated in the written stage briefing, they are deemed to extend rearwards to infinity.
2.2.2 Obstacles - Courses of fire may include the use of barriers or major obstacles
to be surmounted by competitors. Obstacles used in this way must not exceed a
height of 2 meters. Obstacles over 1 meter in height must be supplied with scaling
aids to assist competitors and must be constructed to provide for the competitor’s
safety in the following ways:
2.2.2.1 Obstacles must be firmly anchored and braced to provide adequate support
when in use. Wherever possible, unduly sharp or rough surfaces must be removed to
reduce the possibility of injury to competitors and/or Match Officials.
2.2.2.2 The descending side of any obstacle must be clear of obstructions or natural
hazards.
2.2.2.3 Competitors must be allowed to test such obstacles before the course of fire
and should be given a short period to do so.
2.2.2.4 Competitors must not be required to holster their handgun before ascending
these obstacles.
2.2.3 Tunnels - A tunnel that a competitor is required to enter or pass through must
be constructed of suitable material and to any length. However, sufficient ports must
be provided to allow Match Officials to safely monitor competitor action. Tunnel mouth
edges must be prepared to minimize the possibility of injury to competitors and Match
Officials.
2.2.4 “Cooper” Tunnels - These tunnels are comprised of braced uprights supporting
loose overhead materials (e.g. wooden slats), which may be inadvertently dislodged
by competitors (see Rule 10.2.5). These tunnels may be constructed to any height, but
overhead materials must not be heavy enough to cause injury if they fall.
2.2.5 Stage Props - Where these items are intended to support a competitor in
motion or while shooting targets, they must be constructed with the safety of the
competitor and match officials as a priority. Provisions must be made to allow match
officials to safely monitor and control competitor action at all times. Props must be
strong enough to withstand use by all competitors.
2.3 Modifications to Course Construction
2.3.1 Match Officials may, for any reason, modify the physical construction or stage
procedure for a course of fire, provided that such changes are approved in advance by
the Range Master. Any such physical changes or additions to a published course of
fire should be completed before the stage begins.
2.3.2 All competitors must be notified of any such changes as soon as possible. As a
minimum, they must be notified by the official in charge of the course of fire during the
squad briefing.
2.3.3 If the Range Master approves any such action after the match begins he must
either:
2.3.3.1 Allow the course of fire to continue with the modification affecting only those
competitors who have not already completed the stage. If a competitor’s actions
caused the change, that competitor must be required to reshoot the altered course of
fire; or
2.3.3.2 If possible, require all competitors to complete the course of fire as revised
with all previous attempts removed from the match scores.
2.3.3.3 A competitor who refuses to reshoot a course of fire, under this or any other
Section, when so ordered by a Range Official, will receive a zero score for that stage,
irrespective of any previous attempt.
2.3.4 If the Range Master (in consultation with the Match Director) determines that
the physical or procedural change results in a loss of competitive equity and it is
impossible for all competitors to attempt the revised stage, or if the stage has been
rendered unsuitable or unworkable for any reason, that stage and all associated
competitor scores must be deleted from the match.
2.4 Safety Areas
2.4.1 The host organization is responsible for the construction and placement of a
sufficient number of Safety Areas for the match. They should be conveniently placed
and easily identified with signs. Safety Areas should include a table with the safe
direction.
2.4.2 Competitors are permitted to use the Safety Areas for the activities stated
below provided they remain within the boundaries of the Safety Area and the handgun
is pointed in a safe direction. Violations may be subject to match disqualification.
2.4.2.1 Casing, uncasing, and holstering unloaded handguns.
2.4.2.2 Practice the mounting, drawing, "dry-firing" and re-holstering of unloaded
handguns. The competitor must prove their handgun clear of propellant and pellets to
a Range Officer prior to entering the safety area to carry out dry firing. The
competitor must also maintain muzzle awareness particularly when sharing the
safety area with a fellow competitor.
2.4.2.3 Practice the insertion and removal of empty magazines and/or to cycle the
action of a handgun.
2.4.2.4 Conduct inspections, stripping, cleaning, repairs and maintenance of
handguns, component parts and other accessories. Loaded magazines and BBs
must not be handled in a Safety Area under any circumstances.
2.5 Gas Discharge Areas
2.5.1 Match organizers must provide Discharge Areas to enable competitors to
safely unload their handgun. The Discharge Area should be conveniently located to
safely remove propellant and pellets from the magazines and it should be clearly signmarked.
2.6 Vendor Areas
2.6.1 Vendors are solely responsible for the safe handling and security of their
products. Magazines must be clear of propellant and pellets.
2.6.2 Vendors private shooting range is forbidden.
2.6.3 Competitors may handle unloaded vendor's handguns while remaining wholly
within the vendor areas, provided reasonable care is taken to ensure that the muzzle
is not pointed at any person while being handled.
2.6.4 Competitors must not draw or re-holster their competition handguns in the
vendor area (see Rule 10.5.1). Competitors seeking gunsmithing services for their
competition handguns must firstly place them in a gun bag or gun case, in a
designated safety area, before passing them to a vendor in the vendor area.
3 Course Information
3.1 General Regulations
3.1.1 A written stage briefing approved by the Range Master must be posted at each
course of fire prior to commencement of the match. This briefing will take precedence
over any course of fire information published or otherwise communicated to
competitors in advance of the match, and it must provide the following minimum
information:
● Start position
● Procedure
● Scoring Method
● Minimum number of rounds and maximum score
● Targets (type & number)
● The handgun ready condition if different from standard condition
● Time starts: audible or visual signal
● Time stops: Last shot or Stop Plate
3.1.2 The Range Officer in charge of a course of fire must read out the written stage
briefing verbatim to each squad.
3.1.3 The Range Master may modify a written stage briefing at any time for reasons
of clarity, consistency or safety (see Section 2.3).
3.1.4 After the written stage briefing has been read to competitors, and questions
arising there from have been answered, competitors should be permitted to conduct
an orderly inspection ("walkthrough") of the course of fire. The duration of time for the
inspection must be stipulated by the Range Officer, and it should be the same for all
competitors. If the course of fire includes moving targets or similar items, these should
be demonstrated to all competitors for the same duration and frequency.
4 Range Equipment
4.1 General Principles
4.1.1 Only targets approved by IAPS and which fully comply with the specifications
are to be used for Practical Shooting matches.
4.1.2 No-shoots must be clearly marked or be of a single color different from scoring
targets.
4.2 IAPS Approved Paper Targets
4.2.1 Paper targets must comply with IAPS recommendations. Both paper or card,
scoring zones must be clearly defined.
4.2.2 Paper targets must have scoring lines and non-scoring borders clearly marked
on the face of the target, however, scoring lines and non-scoring borders should not
be visible beyond a distance of 10 meters.
4.2.3 Paper targets must never be required to receive more than 12 hits before being
scored and patched.
4.2.4 When the scoring area of a paper target is to be partially hidden, course
designers must simulate hard cover in one of the following ways:
4.2.4.1 By actually hiding a portion of the target.
4.2.4.2 By painting or taping the portion of the target deemed to be hidden by hard
cover a single and visibly contrasting color.
4.2.4.3 Hard cover (and overlapping no-shoots) must not completely hide the
highest scoring zone on a partially hidden paper target.
4.3 IAPS Approved Metal Targets
4.3.1 Metal targets for use in IAPS matches are as follows:
4.3.1.1 Various sizes of metal plates may be used (see appendix).
4.3.1.2 Metal Poppers and Plates must be calibrated to control their usability by all
the Divisions.
4.3.1.3 Frangible targets are not authorized targets.
4.3.1.4 Scoring metal targets must be shot and fall or overturn to score. At the
Match Director discretion a target can be declared hit if it moves from the designated
position.
4.3.1.5 If a metal target has been adequately hit but it fails to fall or overturn, a
Range Officer may declare range equipment failure and order the competitor to
reshoot the course of fire, after the faulty plate has been rectified.
4.4 Rearrangement of Range Equipment or Surface
4.4.1 The competitor must not interfere with the range surface, natural foliage,
constructions, props or other range equipment (including targets, target stands and
target activators) at anytime. Violations may incur one procedural penalty per
occurrence at the discretion of the Range Officer.
4.4.2 The competitor may request that Match Officials take corrective actions to
ensure consistency in respect of the range surface, the presentation of targets and/or
any other matter. The Range Master will have final authority concerning all such
requests.
4.5 Range Equipment Failure and Other Issues
4.5.1 Range equipment must present the challenge fairly and equitably to all
competitors. Range equipment failure includes, but is not limited to, the displacement
of paper targets, the premature activation of metal or moving targets, the malfunction
of mechanically or electrically operated equipment, and the failure of props such as
openings, ports, and barriers.
4.5.2 A competitor who is unable to complete a course of fire due to range
equipment failure, or if a metal or moving target was not reset prior to his attempt at a
course of fire, must be required to reshoot the course of fire after corrective actions
have been taken.
4.5.3 Chronic malfunction of equipment in a course of fire may result in the removal
of that stage from the match results (See Rule 2.3.4).
5 Competitor Equipment
5.1 Handguns
5.1.1 Handguns are separated and defined by Division, however, courses of fire
must remain consistent for all Divisions (see external Divisions Rules).
5.1.2 Competitors must use the same handgun and type of sights for all courses of
fire in a match. However, in the event that a competitor's original handgun and/or
sights become unserviceable or unsafe during a match, the competitor must, before
using a substitute handgun and/or sights, seek permission from the Range Master
who may approve the substitution provided he is satisfied:
5.1.2.1 The substitute handgun satisfies the requirements of the relevant Division.
5.1.2.2 In using the substitute handgun the competitor will not gain a competitive
advantage.
5.1.3 A competitor must never use or wear on his person more than one handgun
during a course of fire (see Rule 10.5.6)
.
5.2 Holsters and Other Competitor Equipment
5.2.1 Carry and Storage - Except when within the boundaries of a safety area, or
when under the supervision and direct command of a Range Officer, competitors must
carry their handguns unloaded in a gun case, gun bag or holster.
5.2.2 Holsters must comply to external Holsters Rules.
5.2.3 Competitors carrying their handgun in a holster must have an empty magazine
well, and the hammer or striker must be de-cocked
.
5.3 Dress code
5.3.1 Camouflage or paramilitary clothing, or shirts with controversial slogans or
sayings WILL NOT BE ALLOWED. Anyone wearing these items will be asked to leave
the range. It is critical that this sport stay as media friendly as possible and avoid
possible controversy.
5.4 Eye Protection
5.4.1 Eye protection for all shooters and spectators are required. Individuals
observed without eye wear will be required to leave the shooting area.
5.4.2 If a Range Official notices that a competitor has lost or displaced their eye
protection during a course of fire, or has commenced a course of fire without them, he
must immediately stop the competitor who will be required to reshoot the course of fire
after the protective device has been restored.
5.5 Ammunition and Related Equipment
5.5.1 For outdoor shooting, outside a shooting range, biodegradable BBs must be
used.
5.5.2 Spare magazines, speed loading devices or ammunition dropped or discarded
by a competitor after the start signal may be retrieved, however, their retrieval is, at all
times, subject to all safety rules.
5.5.3 In the event that a competitor's handgun malfunctions after the start signal
including insufficient gas, the competitor may safely attempt to correct the problem
and continue the course of fire. During such corrective action, the competitor must
keep the muzzle of the handgun pointing safely downrange at all times. The
competitor may use rods, or other tools to correct the malfunction.
5.5.4 In the event that a handgun malfunction cannot be corrected by the competitor
within 2 minutes or before the end of the Comstock programmed time, he must point
the handgun safely downrange and advise the Range Officer, who will terminate the
course of fire in the normal manner. The course of fire will be scored as shot including
all applicable misses and penalties.
5.5.5 Under no circumstances is a competitor permitted to leave a course of fire in
the possession of a handgun with a chambered round, even if the magazine or
propellant has been removed.
6 Match Structure
6.1 General Principles
6.1.1 String - A separately timed and scored component of a Stage. Scores and
penalties are recorded following completion of each string, and results achieved in
each string are then tallied to produce a final stage result (also see Rule 9.5.6).
6.1.2 Stage - A separately timed and scored component of a match.
6.1.3 Match - Consists of a minimum of 2 stages. The total sum of individual stage
results will be accumulated to declare a match winner.
6.1.4 Shoot-Off - It's an event conducted separately from a match. Eligible
competitors compete directly against each other by simultaneously shooting at
separate but equal target arrays in a process of elimination (see J-ladder Appendix).
6.2 Match Divisions
6.2.1 Each match must recognize at least one Division. When multiple Divisions are
available in a match, each Division must be scored separately and independently, and
match results must recognize a winner in each Division.
6.2.2 For a Division to be valid, there must be a minimum of 5 competitors for that
Division.
6.2.3 For a Category (Lady, Senior, ...) to be valid into a Division, there must be a
minimum of 3 competitors for that Category (Senior is the default Category). Division
status must be achieved before Categories are recognized.
6.2.4 Prior to the commencement of a match, each competitor must declare one
Division for score, and Match Officials should check competitor equipment compliance
with the declared Division, prior to the competitor making an attempt at any of the
courses of fire.
6.2.5 A visible mark may be applied on competitor equipment to valid the
compliance.
6.2.6 Subject to the prior approval of the Match Director, a competitor may enter a
match in more than one Division. However, the competitor may compete for match
score in only one Division, and that must be the first attempt in all cases. Any
subsequent attempts in another Division will not count for match recognition.
6.3 Competitor Scheduling and Squadding
6.3.1 Competitors must compete for score according to the published match and
squadding schedule. A competitor who is not present at the scheduled time and date
for any stage may not attempt that stage without the prior approval of the Match
Director, failing which the competitor's score for that stage will be zero.
6.3.2 Range Officials (as defined in Section 7 of these rules), match sponsors, IAPS
Members (as defined in the Statutes) and other persons may compete for score in a
"pre-match", subject to the prior approval of the Match Director. Competitors in the
main match must not be restricted from viewing the pre-match.
7 Match Management
7.1 Match Director
7.1.1 Match Director ("MD") - handles overall match administration including
squadding, scheduling, range construction, the coordination of all support staff and the
provision of services. His authority and decisions will prevail with regard to all matters
except in respect of matters in these rules which are the domain of the Range Master.
The Match Director is appointed by the host organization and works with the Range
Master.
7.2 Stats Officer
7.2.1 Stats Officer ("SO") - collects, sorts, verifies, tabulates and retains all score
sheets and ultimately produces provisional and final results. Any incomplete or
inaccurate score sheets must be promptly referred to the Range Master (under direct
authority of the Range Master).
7.3 Range Officer
7.3.1 Range Officer ("RO") - issues range commands, oversees competitor
compliance with the written stage briefing and closely monitors safe competitor action.
He also declares the time, scores and penalties achieved by each competitor and
verifies that these are correctly recorded on the competitor's score sheet (under the
authority of the Range Master).
7.4 Range Master
7.4.1 Range Master ("RM") - has overall authority over all persons and activities
within the entire range, including range safety, the operation of all courses of fire and
the application of these rules. All match disqualifications and appeals to arbitration
must be brought to his attention.
8 The Course of Fire
8.1 Handgun Ready Conditions
8.1.1 The ready condition for handguns will normally be as stated below. However, in
the event that a competitor fails to load the chamber when permitted by the written
stage briefing, whether inadvertently or intentionally, the Range Officer must not take
any action, as the competitor is always responsible for the handling of the handgun.
8.1.2 Self-loading pistols
8.1.2.1 "Single action" - chamber loaded, hammer cocked, and the safety engaged.
8.1.2.2 "Double action" - chamber loaded, hammer fully down or de-cocked.
8.1.2.3 "Selective action" - chamber loaded with hammer fully down, or chamber
loaded and hammer cocked with external safety engaged (see external Divisions
Rules).
8.1.3 Courses of fire may require ready conditions which are different to those stated
above. In such cases, the required ready condition must be clearly stated in the
written stage briefing.
8.1.4 Unless complying with a Division requirement (see external Divisions Rules), a
competitor must not be restricted on the number of rounds to be loaded or reloaded in
a handgun. Written stage briefings may only stipulate when the handgun is to be
loaded or when mandatory reloads are required.
8.2 Competitor Ready Conditions
This designates when, under the direct command of a Range Officer:
8.2.1 The handgun is prepared as specified in the written stage briefing, and is in
compliance with the requirements of the relevant Division.
8.2.2 The competitor assumes the start position as specified in the written stage
briefing. Unless otherwise specified, the competitor must stand erect, facing
downrange, with arms hanging naturally by the sides.
8.2.3 A course of fire must never require the competitor to draw a handgun from the
holster with the weak hand.
IAPS Practical Shooting Rules – 2008 Edition 21/52
8.2.4 A course of fire must never require the competitor to re-holster a handgun
during a course of fire. However, a competitor may re-holster provided this is
accomplished safely, and the handgun is either unloaded or in a ready condition
stated in Section 8.1.
8.3 Range Communication
The approved range commands and their sequence are as follows:
8.3.1 "Load And Make Ready" - This command signifies the start of "the Course of
Fire". Under the direct supervision of the Range Officer the competitor must face down
range, or in a safe direction as specified by the Range Officer, fit eye protection, and
prepare the handgun in accordance with the written stage briefing. The competitor
must then assume the required start position. At this point, the Range Officer will
proceed.
Once the "Load and Make Ready" command has been given, the competitor must not
move away from the start location prior to issuance of the "Start Signal" without the
prior approval, and under the direct supervision, of the Range Officer. Violation will
result in a warning for the first offense and may result in a disqualification (see Rule
10.6.1) for a subsequent offense in the same match.
8.3.2 "Are You Ready?" - The lack of any negative response from the competitor
indicates that he fully understands the requirements of the course of fire and is ready
to proceed. If the competitor is not ready at the "Are You Ready?" command, he must
state "Not Ready". It is suggested that when the competitor is ready he should
assume the required start position to indicate his readiness to the Range Officer.
8.3.3 "Standby" - This command should be followed by the start signal within 1 to 4
seconds.
8.3.4 Start Signal - The signal for the competitor to begin their attempt at the course
of fire. If a competitor fails to react to a start signal, for any reason, the Range Officer
will confirm that the competitor is ready to attempt the course of fire, and will resume
the range commands from "Are You Ready?"
8.3.5 "Stop" - Any Range Officer assigned to a stage may issue this command at any
time during the course of fire. The competitor must immediately cease firing, stop
moving and wait for further instructions from the Range Officer.
8.3.6 "If You Are Finished, Unload And Show Clear" - If the competitor has finished
shooting, he must lower his handgun and present it for inspection by the Range
Officer with the muzzle pointed down range, magazine removed, slide locked or held
open, and chamber empty.
8.3.7 "If Clear, Hammer Down, Holster" - After issuance of this command, the
competitor must not resume shooting (see Rule 10.6.1). While continuing to point the
handgun safely downrange, the competitor must perform a final safety check of the
handgun as follows:
8.3.7.1 Self-loaders - release the slide and pull the trigger (without touching the
hammer, if any).
8.3.7.2 If the gun proves to be clear, the competitor must holster his handgun. Once
the competitor's hands are clear of the holstered handgun, the course of fire is
deemed to have ended.
8.3.8 "Range Is Clear" - Competitors or Range Officials must not move forward of, or
away from, the firing line or final shooting location until this declaration is given by the
Range Officer. Once the declaration is made, officials and competitors may move
forward to score, patch, reset targets etc.
8.4 Loading, Reloading or Unloading During a Course of Fire
8.4.1 When loading, reloading or unloading during a course of fire, the competitor's
fingers must be visibly outside the trigger guard and the handgun must be pointed
safely down range or in another safe direction authorized by a Range Officer.
8.5 Movement
8.5.1 Except when the competitor is actually aiming or shooting at targets, all
movement must be accomplished with the fingers visibly outside the trigger guard.
The handgun must be pointed in a safe direction. "Movement" is defined as any of the
actions below:
8.5.1.1 Taking more than one step in any direction.
8.5.1.2 Changing shooting stance (e.g. from standing to kneeling, from seated to
standing etc.).
IAPS Practical Shooting Rules – 2008 Edition 23/52
8.5.2 If a competitor holsters a loaded handgun at any time during a course of fire, it
must be placed in the applicable handgun ready conditions. Violations will be subject
to match disqualification (see Section 8.1).
8.5.2.1 For a single action self-loaders the safety must be applied.
8.5.2.2 For double action self-loaders the hammer must be down.
8.6 Assistance or Interference
8.6.1 No assistance of any kind can be given to a competitor during a course of fire,
except that any Range Officer assigned to a stage may issue safety warnings to a
competitor at any time. Such warnings will not be grounds for the competitor to be
awarded a reshoot.
8.6.1.1 Competitors with disabilities may be given special dispensation by the
Range Master in respect of mobility assistance, however, the provisions of a special
penalty may apply, at the Range Master’s discretion.
8.6.2 Any person providing assistance or interference to a competitor during a
course of fire (and the competitor receiving such assistance) may, at the discretion of
a Range Officer, incur a procedural penalty for that stage.
8.6.3 In the event that inadvertent contact from the Range Officer or another external
influence has interfered with the competitor during a course of fire, the Range Officer
may offer the competitor a reshoot of the course of fire. The competitor must accept or
decline the offer prior to seeing either the time or the score from the initial attempt.
However, in the event that the competitor commits a safety infraction during any such
interference, the provisions of match disqualifications (see Section 10.3) may still
apply.
8.6.4 In the event that a competitor inadvertently begins shooting prematurely ("false
start"), the Range Officer will, as soon as possible, stop and restart the competitor
once the course of fire has been restored.
8.7 Sight Pictures and Range Inspection
8.7.1 Competitors may take a sight picture with an unloaded handgun prior to the
start signal.
8.7.2 Competitors must only do so on a single target, to verify that their sights are
prepared as required. Competitors who test a targeting sequence or a shooting
position while taking a sight picture will incur one procedural penalty per occurrence.
8.7.3 Competitors are prohibited from using any sighting aid except for their own
hands, while conducting their inspection ("walkthrough") of a course of fire. Violations
will incur one procedural penalty per occurrence (also see Rule 10.5.1).
8.7.4 No person is permitted to enter or move through a course of fire without the
prior approval of a Range Officer assigned to that course of fire or the Range Master.
Violators will incur a warning for the first offense but may be subject to the provisions
of Section 10.6 for subsequent offenses.
9 Scoring
9.1 General Regulations
9.1.1 Approaching Targets - While scoring is in progress, competitors or their
delegate must not approach any target closer than 1 meter without the authorization of
the Range Officer. Violation will result in a warning for the first offense, but the
competitor or his delegate may, at the discretion of the Range Officer, incur a
procedural penalty for subsequent occurrences in the same match.
9.1.2 Touching Targets - While scoring is in progress competitors or their delegate
must not touch, gauge or otherwise interfere with any target without the authorization
of the Range Officer. Should a Range Officer deem that a competitor or their delegate
has influenced or affected the scoring process due to such interference, the Range
Officer may:
9.1.2.1 Score the affected target as a missed target; or
9.1.2.2 Impose penalties for any affected penalty targets.
9.1.3 Prematurely Patched Targets - If a target is prematurely patched or taped,
preventing the determination of the actual score, the Range Officer must order the
competitor to reshoot the course of fire.
9.1.4 Unrestored Targets - If, following completion of a course of fire by a previous
competitor, one or more targets have not been properly patched or taped in
preparation for the competitor being scored, or if there are extra scoring or
questionable penalty hits thereon, and it is not obvious to the Range Officer which hits
were made by the competitor being scored, the affected competitor must be ordered
to reshoot the course of fire.
9.1.5 Impenetrable - The scoring area of all IAPS scoring and penalty paper targets
is deemed to be impenetrable. If a:
9.1.5.1 Airsoft Bullet strikes wholly within the scoring area of a paper target, and
continues on to strike the scoring area of another paper target, the hit on the
subsequent paper target will not count for score or penalty, as the case may be.
9.1.5.2 Airsoft Bullet strikes wholly within the scoring area of a paper target, and
continues on to strike down a metal target, this will be treated as range equipment
failure. The competitor will be required to reshoot the course of fire, after it has been
restored.
9.1.5.3 Airsoft Bullet strikes partially within the scoring area of a paper or metal
target, and continues on to strike the scoring area of another paper target, the hit on
the subsequent paper target will also count for score or penalty, as the case may be.
9.1.5.4 Airsoft Bullet strikes partially within the scoring area of a paper or metal
target, and continues on to strike down another metal target, the fallen subsequent
metal target will also count for score or penalty, as the case may be.
9.1.6 All props, walls, barriers, vision screens and other obstacles are deemed to be
impenetrable "hard cover". If a:
9.1.6.1 Airsoft Bullet strikes wholly within hard cover, and continues on to strike any
scoring or penalty paper target, that shot will not count for score or penalty, as the
case may be.
9.1.6.2 Airsoft Bullet strikes wholly within hard cover, and continues on to strike
down a metal target, this will be treated as range equipment failure. The competitor
will be required to reshoot the course of fire, after it has been restored.
9.1.6.3 Airsoft Bullet strikes partially within hard cover, and continues on to strike
the scoring area of a paper target, the hit on that paper target will count for score or
penalty, as the case may be.
9.1.6.4 Airsoft Bullet strikes partially within hard cover, and continues on to strike
down a metal target, the fallen metal target will count for score or penalty, as the
case may be.
9.2 Scoring Methods
The written stage briefing for each course of fire must specify one of the following scoring
methods:
9.2.1 "Comstock" – 120 seconds (2 minutes) maximum time stops when expired or
on the Stop Plate information, unlimited number of shots to be fired, stipulated number
of hits per target to count for score.
9.2.1.1 Time is recorded by a timing device and stops with a Stop Plate connected
to it's input jack.
9.2.1.2 A competitor's score is calculated by adding the highest value stipulated
number of hits per target, minus penalties, divided by the total time (recorded to two
decimal places) taken by the competitor to complete the course of fire, to arrive at a
hit factor. The overall stage results are factored by awarding the competitor with the
highest hit factor the maximum points available for the course of fire, with all other
competitors ranked relatively below the stage winner.
9.2.2 "Virginia Count" - Unlimited time stops on the last shot, limited number of shots
to be fired, stipulated number of hits per target to count for score.
9.2.2.1 Time is recorded by a timing device operated by a Range Officer and stops
on the last competitor's shoot.
9.2.2.2 A competitor's score is calculated by adding the highest value stipulated
number of hits per target, minus penalties, divided by the total time (recorded to two
decimal places) taken by the competitor to complete the course of fire, to arrive at a
hit factor. The overall stage results are factored by awarding the competitor with the
highest hit factor the maximum points available for the course of fire, with all other
competitors ranked relatively below the stage winner.
9.2.2.3 Virginia Count must use paper targets exclusively, and must only be used
for Short Courses.
9.2.3 Stage results must rank competitors within the relevant Division in descending
order of individual stage points achieved, calculated to 3 decimal places.
9.2.4 Match results must rank competitors within the relevant Division in descending
order of the combined total of individual stage points achieved, calculated to 3 decimal
places.
9.3 Scoring Ties
9.3.1 If, in the opinion of the Match Director, a tie in match results must be broken
(after comparing the number of A and C), the affected competitors must shoot one or
more courses of fire, nominated or created by the Match Director, until the tie is
broken. The result of a tiebreaker will only be used to determine the final placing of the
affected competitors, and their original match points will remain unchanged. Ties must
never be broken by chance.
9.4 Scoring and Penalty Values
9.4.1 Scoring hits on IAPS targets will be scored in accordance with the values listed
in Appendices.
9.4.2 Each hit visible on the scoring area of a penalty paper target will be penalized
the equivalent of twice the point value of a maximum scoring hit, up to a maximum of 2
hits per penalty target.
9.4.3 Each fallen down penalty metal target will be penalized the equivalent of twice
the point value of a maximum scoring hit, up to a maximum of 2 hits per penalty target.
9.4.4 Each miss will be penalized twice the value of the maximum scoring hit
available on that target, except in the case of disappearing targets.
9.4.5 In a Virginia Count Course:
9.4.5.1 Extra shots (i.e. shots fired in excess of the number specified in a
component string or stage), will each incur one procedural penalty. Additionally,
during scoring, no more than the specified number and highest scoring hits will be
awarded.
9.4.5.2 Extra hits (i.e. hits on the scoring area of scoring paper targets in excess of
the total number specified in the stage), will each incur one procedural penalty. Note
that hits on hard cover and/or penalty targets are not treated as Extra Hits.
9.4.5.3 Stacked shots (i.e. firing the correct number of rounds in a string, but
shooting at fewer targets than specified in the string), will incur one procedural
penalty per occurrence. This penalty will not be applied if the written stage briefing
specifically authorizes stacked shots.
9.5 Scoring Policy
9.5.1 Unless otherwise specified in the written stage briefing, scoring paper targets
must be shot with a minimum of two rounds each, with the best two hits to score.
Scoring metal targets must be shot with a minimum of one round each and must fall or
turn to score.
9.5.2 If the Airsoft Bullet diameter of a hit on a scoring target touches the scoring line
between two scoring areas, or if it crosses multiple scoring areas, it will be scored the
higher value.
9.5.3 If an Airsoft Bullet diameter touches the scoring area of both a scoring target
and a penalty target, it will earn the score and incur the penalty.
9.5.4 Radial tears radiating outwards from the diameter of an Airsoft Bullet hole will
not count for score or penalty.
9.5.5 Airsoft Bullet must penetrate the surface of the target (paper or card) to score.
A slight mark or dent will not be scored as a hit.
9.5.6 The minimum score for a course of fire or string will be zero.
9.5.7 A competitor who fails to shoot at each scoring target in a course of fire with at
least one round will incur one procedural penalty per target for failure to shoot at the
target, as well as appropriate penalties for misses.
9.6 Score Verification and Challenge
9.6.1 After the Range Officer has declared "Range is Clear", the competitor or their
delegate will be allowed to accompany the official responsible for scoring to verify the
scoring.
9.6.2 The Range Officer responsible for a course of fire may stipulate that the
scoring process will begin while a competitor is actually completing a course of fire. In
such cases, the competitor's delegate must be entitled to accompany the official
responsible for scoring in order to verify the scoring. Competitors must be advised of
this procedure during the squad briefing.
9.6.3 A competitor (or his delegate) who fails to verify a target during the scoring
process loses all right of appeal in respect of scoring that target.
9.6.4 Any challenge to a score or penalty must be appealed to the Range Officer by
the competitor (or his delegate) prior to the subject target being painted, patched, or
reset, failing which such challenges will not be accepted.
9.6.5 In the event that the Range Officer upholds the original score or penalty and
the competitor is dissatisfied, he may appeal to the Range Master for a ruling.
9.6.6 The Range Master's ruling will be final. No further appeals are allowed with
respect to the scoring decision.
9.6.7 During a scoring challenge, the subject target(s) must not be patched, taped or
otherwise interfered with until the matter has been settled. The Range Officer may
remove a disputed paper target from the course of fire for further examination to
prevent any delay in the match. Both the competitor and the Range Officer must sign
the target and clearly indicate which hit(s) is (are) subject to challenge.
9.7 Score Sheets
9.7.1 The Range Officer must enter all information (including any warnings given) on
each competitor's score sheet prior to signing it. After the Range Officer has signed
the score sheet, the competitor must add his own signature in the appropriate place.
Electronic score sheet signatures will be acceptable if approved by the Range Master.
Whole numbers should be used to record all scores or penalties. The elapsed time
taken by the competitor to complete the course of fire must be recorded to 2 decimal
places in the appropriate place.
9.7.2 If corrections to the score sheet are required, these will be clearly entered onto
the original and other copies of the competitor's score sheets. The competitor and the
Range Officer should initial any corrections.
9.7.3 Should a competitor refuse to sign or initial a score sheet, for any reason, the
matter must be referred to the Range Master. If the Range Master is satisfied that the
course of fire has been conducted and scored correctly the unsigned score sheet will
be submitted as normal for inclusion in the match scores.
9.7.4 A score sheet signed by both a competitor and a Range Officer is conclusive
evidence that the course of fire has been completed, and that the time, scores and
penalties recorded on the score sheet, are accurate and uncontested. The signed
score sheet is deemed to be a definitive document and, with the exception of the
mutual consent of the competitor and the signatory Range Officer, or due to an
arbitration decision, the score sheet will only be changed to correct arithmetical errors
or to add procedural penalties under Rule 8.6.2.
9.7.5 If a score sheet is found to have insufficient or excess entries, or if the time has
not been recorded on the score sheet, the competitor will be required to reshoot the
course of fire.
9.7.6 In the event that a reshoot is not possible or permissible for any reason, the
following actions will prevail:
9.7.6.1 If the time is missing, the competitor will receive a zero score for the course
of fire.
9.7.6.2 If insufficient hits or misses have been recorded on the score sheet, those
which have been recorded will be deemed complete and conclusive.
9.7.6.3 If excessive hits or misses have been recorded on the score sheet, the
highest value scoring hits recorded will be used.
9.7.6.4 Procedural penalties recorded on the score sheet will be deemed complete
and conclusive, except where Rule 8.6.2 applies.
9.7.6.5 If the identity of the competitor is missing from a score sheet, it must be
referred to the Range Master, who must take whatever action he deems necessary to
rectify the situation.
9.8 Scoring Responsibility
9.8.1 Each competitor is responsible to maintain an accurate record of their scores to
verify the lists posted by the Stats Officer.
9.8.2 After all competitors have completed a match, the provisional stage results
should be published and posted in a conspicuous place by the Stats Officer for the
purpose of verification by competitors.
9.8.3 If a competitor detects an error in the provisional results at the end of the
match, he must file an appeal with the Stats Officer not later than half an hour after the
results are posted. If the appeal is not filed within the time limit, the posted scores will
stand and the appeal will be dismissed.
9.9 Scoring of Moving Targets
Moving targets will be scored in accordance with the following:
9.9.1 Moving targets which present at least a portion of the highest scoring area
when at rest, or which continuously appear and disappear, will always incur failure to
shoot at and/or miss penalties.
9.9.2 Moving targets, which do not comply with the above criteria, will not incur
failure to shoot at or miss penalties except where Rule 9.9.3 applies.
9.9.3 Moving targets will always incur failure to shoot at and miss penalties if a
competitor fails to activate the mechanism, which initiates the target movement.
9.10 Official Time
9.10.1 Only the timing device operated by a Range Officer must be used to record
the official elapsed time of a competitor's attempt at a course of fire. If a timing device
is faulty, a competitor whose attempt cannot be credited with an accurate time will be
required to reshoot the stage.
9.10.2 Time must stop on the last competitor's shoot recorded by the timing device
operated by a Range Officer or stops with a Stop Plate connected to a timing device's
input jack depending on the scoring method used.
9.10.2.1 Stop Plate must be a 14 centimeters circle target mounted on a long post,
held upright in a suitable base on the ground. Center of the target must be at less
than 5 meters from the final shooting position.
9.10.3 If, in the opinion of an Arbitration Committee, the time credited to a competitor
for a course of fire is deemed to be unrealistic, the competitor will be required to
reshoot the course of fire (see Rule 9.7.4).
9.10.4 A competitor who reacts to a start signal but, for any reason, does not
continue their attempt at the course of fire and fails to have an official time recorded
on the timing device operated by the Range Officer, will be given a zero time and zero
score for that course of fire.
9.11 Scoring Programs
9.11.1 The scoring program approved by IAPS is the IAPS Scoring Software.
Suitable Spreadsheet based programs are also permitted.
10 Penalties
10.1 Procedural Penalties - General Regulations
10.1.1 Procedural penalties are imposed when a competitor fails to comply with
procedures specified in a written stage briefing. The Range Officer imposing the
procedural penalties must clearly record the number of penalties, and the reason why
they were imposed, on the competitor's score sheet.
10.1.2 Procedural penalties are assessed at twice the value of a single maximum
available scoring hit on an IAPS paper target as stated in Appendices. If the maximum
available scoring hit on an IAPS paper target is 5 points, each procedural penalty will
be minus 10 points.
10.1.3 A competitor disputing the application or number of procedural penalties may
appeal to the Range Master. A competitor who continues to be aggrieved may then
lodge an appeal for arbitration.
10.2 Procedural Penalties - Specific Examples
10.2.1 A competitor who fires shots while any part of their body is touching the
ground beyond a Fault Line will receive 1 procedural penalty. However, if the
competitor has gained a significant advantage while faulting, the competitor will be
assessed 1 procedural penalty for each shot fired while faulting, instead of a single
penalty. No penalty is assessed if a competitor does not fire any shots while faulting a
line.
10.2.2 A competitor who fails to comply with a procedure specified in the written
stage briefing will incur 1 procedural penalty for each occurrence. However, if a
competitor has gained a significant advantage during non-compliance, the competitor
may be assessed 1 procedural penalty for each shot fired, instead of a single penalty
(e.g. firing multiple shots contrary to the required position or stance).
10.2.3 Where multiple penalties are assessed in the above cases, they must not
exceed the maximum number of scoring hits that can be attained by the competitor.
For example, a competitor who gains an advantage while faulting a Fault Line where
only 4 metal targets are visible will receive 1 procedural penalty for each shot fired
while faulting, up to a maximum of 4 procedural penalties, regardless of the number of
shots actually fired.
10.2.4 A competitor who fails to comply with a mandatory reload will incur 1
procedural penalty for each shot fired after the point where the reload was required
until a reload is performed.
10.2.5 In a Cooper Tunnel, a competitor who disturbs one or more pieces of the
overhead material will receive 1 procedural penalty for each piece of overhead
material which falls. Overhead material which falls as a result of the competitor
bumping or striking the uprights, or as a result of muzzle gases or recoil, will not be
penalized.
10.2.6 A competitor who is creeping (e.g. moving hands towards the handgun, a
reloading device or ammunition) or physically moving to a more advantageous
shooting position, posture or stance after the "Standby" command and prior to
issuance of the start signal, will incur 1 procedural penalty. If the Range Officer can
stop the competitor in time, a warning will be issued for the first offense and the
competitor will be restarted.
10.2.7 A competitor who fails to shoot at any scoring target with at least one round
will incur 1 procedural penalty per target, plus the applicable number of misses.
10.2.8 If a course of fire stipulates shooting strong or weak hand only, a competitor
will not be penalized for using the other hand to disengage an external safety, to
reload or to safely correct a malfunction. However, the competitor will be issued 1
procedural penalty per shot fired while:
10.2.8.1 Touching the handgun with the other hand while firing shots;
10.2.8.2 Using the other hand to support the handgun, wrist or shooting arm while
firing shots;
10.2.8.3 Using the other hand on a barricade or another prop to increase stability
while firing shots.
10.2.9 A competitor who leaves a shooting location may return and shoot again from
the same location provided he does so safely. However, written stage briefing may
prohibit such actions, in which case 1 procedural penalty per shot fired will apply.
10.2.10 Special penalty: A competitor unable to fully execute any part of a course of
fire due to incapacity or injury may, prior to making his attempt at the course of fire,
request that the Range Master apply a penalty in lieu of the stated course
requirement.
10.2.10.1 If the request is approved by the Range Master, a minimum of one
procedural penalty, up to a maximum penalty of 20% of the competitor's points "as
shot" (rounded up to the nearest whole number), will be deducted from the
competitor's score. For example, if 100 points are available in the course of fire and
the competitor actually scores 90 points, the special penalty is a deduction of 18
points.
10.3 Match Disqualification - General Regulations
10.3.1 A competitor who commits a safety infraction or any other prohibited activity
during an IAPS match will be disqualified from that match, and will be prohibited from
attempting any remaining courses of fire in that match.
10.3.2 When a match disqualification is issued, the Range Officer must record the
reasons for the disqualification, and the time and date of the incident, on the
competitor's score sheet, and the Range Master must be notified as soon as possible.
10.3.3 Results must not be declared final by the Match Director, until the time limit
usually half an hour, provided no appeal to arbitration on any matter has been
submitted to the Range Master (or his delegate). Scores for a competitor who has
received a match disqualification must not be deleted from match results.
10.3.4 Scores for a competitor who has completed a "pre-match" or main match
without a match disqualification will not be affected by a match disqualification
received later while that competitor is participating in a Shoot-Off or other side match.
10.4 Match Disqualification - Accidental Discharge
A competitor who causes an accidental discharge must be stopped by a Range Officer as
soon as possible. An accidental discharge is defined as follows:
10.4.1 A shot, which travels over a backstop, a berm or in any other direction,
specified in the written stage briefing by the match organizers as being unsafe. Note
that a competitor who legitimately fires a shot at a target, which then travels in an
unsafe direction, will not be disqualified, but the provisions of Section 2.3 may apply.
10.4.2 A shot which strikes the ground within 3 meters of the competitor, except
when shooting at a paper target closer than 3 meters to the competitor. An Airsoft
Bullet which strikes the ground within 3 meters of the competitor due to a propellant's
problem is exempt from this rule.
10.4.3 A shot which occurs while preparing to or while actually loading, reloading or
unloading a handgun.
10.4.3.1 Exception - a detonation, which occurs while unloading a handgun, is not
considered a shot or discharge subject to a match disqualification, however Range
Officers may demand examination of the competitor’s handgun or related equipment
to check they are functioning safely. If it is declared unserviceable or unsafe by a
Range Officer, it must be withdrawn from the match until the item is repaired to the
satisfaction of the Range Master.
10.4.4 A shot which occurs during remedial action in the case of a malfunction.
10.4.5 A shot which occurs while transferring a handgun between hands.
10.4.6 A shot which occurs during movement, except while actually shooting at
targets.
10.4.7 Exception: When it can be established that the cause of the discharge is due
to the actual breakage of a part of the handgun and the competitor has not committed
any safety infraction in this Section, a match disqualification will not be invoked,
however, the competitor's scores for that course of fire will be zero. The handgun must
be immediately presented for inspection to the Range Master or his delegate, who will
inspect the handgun and carry out any tests necessary to establish that an actual
breakage of a part caused the discharge. A competitor may not later appeal a match
disqualification for an unsafe discharge due to the actual breakage of a part if he fails
to present the handgun for inspection prior to leaving the course of fire.
10.5 Match Disqualification - Unsafe Gun Handling
Examples of unsafe gun handling include, but are not limited to:
10.5.1 Handling a handgun at any time except when in a designated safety area or
when under the supervision of, and in response to a direct command issued by, a
Range Officer.
10.5.2 If at any time during the course of fire, a competitor allows the muzzle of his
handgun to point rearwards, that is further than 90 degrees from the median intercept
of the backstop, or in the case of no backstop, allows the muzzle to point up range,
whether the handgun is loaded or not.
10.5.3 If at any time during the course of fire, or while loading, reloading or
unloading, a competitor drops his handgun or causes it to fall, loaded or not. Note that
a competitor who, for any reason during a course of fire, safely and intentionally
places the handgun on the ground or other stable object will not be disqualified
provided:
10.5.3.1 The competitor maintains constant physical contact with the handgun, until
it is placed firmly and securely on the ground or another stable object.
10.5.4 Drawing or holstering a handgun within the confines of a tunnel.
10.5.5 Allowing the muzzle of a loaded handgun to point rearward beyond a radius of
1 meter from a competitor's feet during drawing or re-holstering.
10.5.6 Wearing or using more than one handgun at any point in time during a course
of fire.
10.5.7 Failure to keep the finger outside the trigger guard while clearing a
malfunction where the competitor clearly moves the handgun away from aiming at
targets.
10.5.8 Failure to keep the finger outside the trigger guard during loading, reloading,
or unloading.
10.5.9 Holstering a loaded handgun, in any of the following conditions:
10.5.9.1 A single action self-loading pistol with the safety not applied.
10.5.9.2 A double action or selective action pistol with the hammer cocked and the
safety not applied.
10.5.10 Handling ammunition, loaded magazines or loaded speed loading devices,
discharging, or releasing unused gas is not allowed in a Safety Area under any
circumstances.
10.5.11 Having a loaded handgun other than when specifically ordered to by the
Range Officer. A loaded handgun is defined as a handgun having a live round in the
chamber or having a live round in a magazine inserted in the handgun.
10.5.12 Retrieving a dropped handgun. Dropped handguns must always be retrieved
by a Range Officer who will, after checking and/or clearing the handgun, place it
directly into the competitor's gun case, gun bag or holster. Dropping an unloaded
handgun or causing it to fall outside of a course of fire is not an infraction, however, a
competitor who retrieves a dropped handgun will receive a match disqualification.
10.6 Match Disqualification - Unsportsmanlike Conduct
10.6.1 Competitors will be disqualified from a match for conduct which a Range
Officer deems to be unsportsmanlike. Examples of unsportsmanlike conduct include,
but are not limited to, cheating, dishonesty, failing to comply with the reasonable
directions of a Match Official, or any behavior likely to bring the sport into disrepute.
The Range Master must be notified as soon as possible.
10.6.2 A competitor who is deemed by a Range Officer to have intentionally removed
or caused the loss of eye protection in order to gain a competitive advantage will be
disqualified for unsportsmanlike conduct.
10.6.3 Other persons may be expelled from the range for conduct which a Range
Officer deems to be unacceptable. Examples of unacceptable conduct include, but are
not limited to, failing to comply with the reasonable directions of a Match Official,
interference with the operation of a course of fire and/or a competitor's attempt
thereof, and any other behavior likely to bring the sport into disrepute.
10.7 Match Disqualification - Prohibited Substances
10.7.1 All persons are required to be in complete control both mentally and physically
during IAPS matches. The regulations of the Worldwide Anti-Doping Code (best
practices models written by the World Anti-Doping Agency – A.M.A.) completely apply
to all the people and all the competitions placed under the authority of the IAPS.
10.7.2 IAPS considers the abuse of alcoholic products, non-prescription and nonessential
drugs and the use of illegal or performance enhancing drugs, irrespective of
how they are taken or administered, to be an extremely serious offense.
10.7.3 Except when used for medicinal purposes, competitors and officials at
matches must not be affected by drugs (including alcohol) of any sort during matches.
Any person, who in the opinion of the Range Master is visibly under the influence of
any of the items described herein, will be disqualified from the match and may be
required to leave the range.
10.7.4 IAPS reserves the right to prohibit any general or specific substances and to
introduce tests for the presence of these substances at any time.
11 Arbitration and Interpretation of Rules
11.1 General Principles
11.1.1 Administration - Occasional disputes are inevitable in any competitive activity
governed by rules. It is recognized that at the more significant match levels the
outcome is much more important to the individual competitor. However, effective
match administration and planning will prevent most if not all disputes.
11.1.2 Access - Appeals may be submitted to arbitration in accordance with the
following rules for any matter except where specifically denied by another rule.
Appeals arising from a disqualification for a safety infraction will only be accepted to
determine whether exceptional circumstances warrant reconsideration of the match
disqualification. However, the commission of the infraction as described by the Range
Official is not subject to challenge or appeal.
11.1.3 Appeals - the Range Officer makes decisions initially. If the appellant
disagrees with a decision, the Range Master should be asked to rule.
11.1.4 Appeal to Committee - Should the appellant continue to disagree with the
decision he may appeal to the Arbitration Committee by submitting a first party appeal.
11.1.5 Retain Evidence - An appellant is required to inform the Range Master of his
wish to present his appeal to the Arbitration Committee and may request that the
officials retain any and all relevant documentary or other evidence pending the
hearing. Audio and/or video recordings will not be accepted as evidence.
11.1.6 Preparing the Appeal - The appellant is responsible for the preparation and
delivery of the written submission, together with the appropriate fee. Both must be
submitted to the Range Master within the specified period of time.
11.1.7 Match Official's Duty - Any match official in receipt of a request for arbitration
must, without delay, inform the Range Master and must note the identities of all
witnesses and officials involved and pass this information on to the Range Master.
11.1.8 Match Director's Duty - Upon receiving the appeal from the Range Master, the
Match Director must convene the Arbitration Committee in a place of privacy as soon
as possible.
11.1.9 Arbitration Committee's Duty - The Arbitration Committee is bound to observe
and apply the current IAPS Rules and to deliver a decision consistent with those rules.
Where rules require interpretation or where an incident is not specifically covered by
the rules, the Arbitration Committee will use their best judgment in the spirit of the
rules.
11.2 Composition of Committee
11.2.1 Arbitration Committee - At matches the composition of the Arbitration
Committee will be subject to the following rules:
11.2.1.1 Three arbitrators will be appointed by the IAPS President, or his delegate,
or by the Match Director, (in that order), with one vote each.
11.2.1.2 When possible arbitrators should be competitors in the match and should
be recognized Range Officials.
11.2.1.3 Under no circumstances must the Chairman or any member of an
Arbitration Committee be a party to the original decision or subsequent appeals,
which led to the arbitration.
11.2.2 The Match Director can appoint an Arbitration Committee of three
experienced shooters who are not parties to the appeal and who do not have a direct
conflict of interest in the outcome of the case. The arbitrators should be recognized
Range Officials if possible. All committee members will vote. The senior Range
Official, or the senior shooter if there are no Range Officials, will be the chairman.
11.3 Time Limits and Sequences
11.3.1 Time Limit for Arbitration Request - Written requests for arbitration must be
submitted to the Range Master within half an hour of the disputed incident or
occurrence. Failure to present the required documentation within the time specified
will render the request invalid and no further action will be taken.
11.3.2 Decision Time Limit - The Committee must reach a decision within 24 hours of
the request for arbitration or before the results have been declared final by the Match
Director, which ever comes first. If the Committee fails to render a decision within the
prescribed period, both a first and third party appellant will automatically succeed in
their appeal, and the fee will be returned.
11.4 Fees
11.4.1 Amount - The appeal fee to enable an appellant to appeal to arbitration will be
€30.00 or the equivalent of the maximum individual match entry fee (whichever is
lower), in local currency. An appeal brought by the Range Master in respect of a
match issue will not incur a fee.
11.4.2 Disbursement - If the Committee's decision is to uphold the appeal (the
appellant is in his right), the fee paid will be returned. If the Committee's decision is to
deny the appeal (the appellant is in his wrong), the appeal fee will be kept by the
organizers.
11.5 Rules of Procedure
11.5.1 Committee's Duty and Procedure - The Committee will study the written
submission and retain on behalf of the organizers the monies paid by the appellant
until a decision has been reached.
11.5.2 Hearing - The appellant will then be asked to withdraw while the Committee
hears further evidence.
11.5.3 Witnesses - The Committee will then hear match officials as well as any other
witnesses involved in the appeal. The Committee will examine all evidence submitted.
11.5.4 Questions - The Committee may question witnesses and officials on any point
relevant to the appeal.
11.5.5 Opinions - Committee members will refrain from expressing any opinion or
verdict while an appeal is in progress.
11.5.6 View Area - The Committee may view any range or area related to the appeal
and require any person or official they regard as useful to the process to accompany
them.
11.5.7 Undue Influence - Any person attempting to influence the members of the
Committee in any way other than evidence may be subject to disciplinary action at the
discretion of the Arbitration Committee.
11.5.8 Deliberation - When the Committee is satisfied that they are in possession of
all information and evidence relevant to the appeal, they will deliberate privately and
will reach their decision by majority vote.
11.6 Verdict and Subsequent Action
11.6.1 Committee Decision - When a decision is reached by the Committee, they will
summon the appellant, the official and the Range Master to present their judgment.
11.6.2 Implement Decision - It will be the responsibility of the Range Master to
implement the Committee's decision. The Range Master will advise the appropriate
match personnel who will post the decision in a place available to all competitors. The
decision is not retroactive and will not affect any incidents prior to the decision.
11.6.3 Decision is Final - The decision of the Committee is final and may not be
appealed unless, in the opinion of the Range Master, new evidence received after the
decision warrants reconsideration.
11.6.4 Minutes - Decisions of the Arbitration Committee will be recorded and will
provide precedent for any similar and subsequent incident during that match.
Favorable or unfavorable rulings should be forwarded to IAPS for review. Future
regulations and rules may result from this process.
11.7 Third Party Appeals
11.7.1 Appeals may also be submitted by other persons on a "third party appeal"
basis. In such cases, all provisions of this Chapter will otherwise remain in force.
11.8 Interpretation of Rules
11.8.1 Interpretation of these rules and regulations is the responsibility of the IAPS
Executive Committee.
11.8.2 All rule interpretations published on the IAPS website and Bulletin Board will
be deemed to be precedents and will be applied to all IAPS sanctioned matches
commencing on or after 7 days from the date of publication. All such interpretations
are subject to ratification or modification at the next IAPS Rules version.
