The exciting realm of airsoft has evolved considerably over the years, expanding from simple backyard games to encompass international competitions. Two such competitions that have garnered significant attention are the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) and the Airsoft International Practical Shooting Confederation (AIPSC).

Discovering IPSC – A Brief History

Intricately linked to action air, the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) is a globally recognized organization responsible for promoting practical shooting sports. It was established in 1976 after a group of shooting enthusiasts from around the globe gathered in Columbia, Missouri with the sole purpose of crafting standardized rules and new target shooting sport disciplines that emphasize accuracy, power, and speed.

Over the subsequent decades, the IPSC has grown exponentially, incorporating regional organizations worldwide while developing several shooting sports within various disciplines, including handgun matches, rifle, and shotgun contests. As part of their mission, they encourage safe gun handling and fair competition, which continues to draw in thousands of practical shooters every year.

A Look at AIPSC – Airsoft’s Answer to Practical Shooting

In recent years, there has been a surge in popularity regarding airsoft, as evidenced by the emergence of a related competitive shooting discipline known as Airsoft International Practical Shooting (AIPSC). With its roots in IPSC, AIPSC incorporates the fun and dynamic nature of airsoft into target shooting sport competitions. Just like its parent organization, AIPSC promotes safety and sportsmanship while offering players an engaging and immersive experience.

While AIPSC follows the basic IPSC structure, it substitutes live firearms with airsoft replicas, ensuring that the games are safe and accessible for a broader range of participants. Additionally, players must adhere to essential rules and regulations surrounding protective gear, such as using appropriate airsoft goggles, masks, and gloves. This fundamental emphasis on safety sets AIPSC apart from other shooting sports while maintaining an engaging atmosphere for competitors.

Diving into the Divisions: Open, Standard, Production, Classic, and More!

Both IPSC and AIPSC feature various distinct divisions within their competitions, with each division representing different categories of firearms or airsoft guns:

• Open Division: In this category, practically any firearm or airsoft gun is permitted, including those with added accessories and modifications. The open division allows participants to finesse their weapons as needed, providing a freestyle approach to the matches.
• Standard Division: The standard division requires participants to use firearms or airsoft guns that retain their original specifications. While certain minor modifications may be allowed, the primary focus here lies on the shooter’s inherent skills rather than weapon enhancements.
• Production Division: This category emphasizes the use of factory-produced firearms or replica airsoft guns without significant alterations. Competitors must compete using unmodified equipment, leveling the playing field and demonstrating raw aptitude.
• Classic Division: The classic division caters to enthusiasts of vintage firearms or airsoft replicas, allowing them to showcase their marksmanship skills while highlighting period-authentic weaponry. The nostalgia and charm of antique guns truly enhance these matches.

Besides the divisions mentioned above, IPSC and AIPSC competitions may also include categories based on age, gender, and experience levels, ensuring that all participants can find a niche.