For those passionate about competitive shooting, the USPSA (United States Practical Shooting Association) Production Division offers an exciting and challenging arena. At the heart of this division are the firearms, specifically the handguns that competitors use. This blog post will delve into the USPSA Production Gun List, exploring the regulations, approved firearms, and some strategies to help you choose the right handgun for your USPSA journey.

Understanding the USPSA Production Division

The USPSA Production Division is one of the most popular divisions in practical shooting sports. It focuses on simulating real-world self-defense scenarios, emphasizing accuracy, speed, and tactical movement. The division's rules and regulations are designed to create a fair and challenging environment for competitors.

USPSA Production Gun List Regulations

The USPSA Production Division has specific regulations regarding the firearms that can be used in competition. These rules are in place to maintain fairness and ensure that the focus is on the shooter's skills rather than the equipment.

Caliber and Barrel Length

The USPSA Production Division allows handguns with a minimum caliber of 9x19mm. This means that firearms chambered in 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and other similar calibers are permitted. The barrel length must be between 3.8 inches and 5.5 inches, with some exceptions for certain models.

Action and Trigger

The firearm must have a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger mechanism. This means that the trigger pull should be consistent with the DA/SA design, and any modifications to the trigger must adhere to USPSA rules. The trigger pull weight must be between 5 lbs and 12 lbs for production division competitions.

Optics and Sights

Optics are not permitted in the Production Division. All handguns must be equipped with iron sights. The sights can be either factory-installed or aftermarket, but they must be fixed and non-adjustable during the match.

Magazine Capacity

The magazine capacity is limited to 10 rounds for centerfire calibers and 12 rounds for .22 LR. This rule is in place to ensure fairness and prevent competitors from having an advantage with higher-capacity magazines.

Approved Firearms for USPSA Production

The USPSA maintains an official list of approved firearms for the Production Division. This list includes various handgun models from reputable manufacturers. Here are some popular choices:

Glock 17/19/34

The Glock pistols are renowned for their reliability and ergonomics. The Glock 17, 19, and 34 are all popular choices in the Production Division due to their excellent trigger feel and aftermarket support.

Smith & Wesson M&P Series

The Smith & Wesson M&P series offers a range of options, including the M&P9 and M&P40. These pistols are known for their customizable features and solid performance.

Sig Sauer P320

The Sig Sauer P320 is a modular pistol that has gained popularity in recent years. Its modular design allows for easy customization, making it a versatile choice for Production Division competitors.

H&K VP9

The H&K VP9 is known for its exceptional ergonomics and accuracy. It offers a comfortable grip and a smooth trigger pull, making it a preferred choice for many shooters.

CZ 75 Series

The CZ 75 series, including the CZ 75 SP-01 and CZ Shadow 2, are popular among USPSA competitors. These pistols are known for their robust construction and excellent trigger reset.

Choosing the Right Handgun

Selecting the perfect handgun for USPSA Production can be a daunting task. Here are some factors to consider:

Ergonomics and Fit

The handgun should fit your hand comfortably and allow for a natural shooting grip. Consider the size and shape of the grip, as well as the overall weight of the firearm.

Trigger Feel

A good trigger is crucial for accurate shooting. Look for a trigger with a smooth pull and a crisp break. Some handguns offer aftermarket trigger upgrades, which can greatly enhance your shooting experience.

Reliability and Aftermarket Support

Choose a handgun known for its reliability and durability. Additionally, consider the availability of aftermarket parts and accessories. A wide range of options can help you customize your firearm to your preferences.

Practice and Familiarity

Before making a decision, spend time practicing with different handguns. Rent or borrow firearms to get a feel for their performance and ergonomics. The more familiar you are with your chosen handgun, the better your performance will be in competitions.

Customization and Upgrades

While the USPSA Production Division has strict regulations, there are still opportunities for customization. Here are some common upgrades shooters consider:

• Trigger Upgrade: Installing an aftermarket trigger kit can significantly improve the feel and consistency of your trigger pull.
• Sights: Although iron sights are required, you can choose from a variety of options, including dot sights or fiber optic sights.
• Grip Modifications: Adding grip tape, stippling, or replacing the grip panels can enhance your grip and control over the firearm.
• Magazines: Invest in high-quality magazines that feed reliably and consider adding base pads for better grip and faster reloads.

Training and Practice Tips

Mastering the USPSA Production Division requires dedication and practice. Here are some tips to enhance your training routine:

• Dry Fire Practice: Dry fire practice is an excellent way to improve your trigger control and sight alignment without using live ammunition. Focus on proper trigger pull and follow-through.
• Live Fire Practice: Dedicate time to live fire practice at the range. Work on your accuracy, target transitions, and shooting under time constraints.
• Study Course Designs: Familiarize yourself with common course designs and stage setups. This will help you develop strategies and improve your stage planning.
• Attend USPSA Matches: Participate in local USPSA matches to gain experience and learn from more experienced shooters. Observing others can provide valuable insights.

Conclusion

The USPSA Production Division offers a thrilling competitive shooting experience. By understanding the regulations, exploring the approved firearms, and considering the factors mentioned above, you can make an informed decision when choosing your handgun. Remember, practice, and continuous learning are key to success in this dynamic shooting sport. So, get out there, shoot, and enjoy the thrill of the Production Division!

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