Action Pistol Competitions consist of four stages of fire, which are listed below:
The Barricade Event is divided into four stages, with two strings per stage and 6 shots per string, for a total of 48 shots. All shots will be fired from behind a barricade at 10, 15, 25, and 35 yards.
The Moving Target Event (Modified) course is divided into 4 stages 12 shots each, for a total of 48 shots. The target will travel 60 feet in six seconds, between two barricades. Fired at 10 and 15 yard line 6 rounds per pass with two passes each yard line. The 20 and 25 yard line will be three rounds per pass with four passes each yard line.
The Falling Plate Event is divided into 4 stages; each stage will have 2 strings, with 6 shots per string, 48 shots total. The targets will be 8 inch round medal plates painted white, fired at 10, 15, 20 and, 25 yards.
The Practical Event consists of four stages; each with three strings and 12 shots per stage (48 shots total) and fired from 10, 15, 25 and 50 yards.
All courses require a competitor to start with a holstered pistol, and on command, draw and fire at one or more targets. Some of these courses limit the use of only the "strong" hand or use of the "weak" hand. One advantage for new shooters however, is that a two-hand hold may be used in most of the course.
Although the Matches start with a draw, safety is stressed at all times. The trigger finger must remain outside the trigger guard during the draw and until in actual fire position.
There are five classifications:
1. Marksmen
2. Sharpshooter
3. Expert
4. Master
5. High Master
(There are open and stock classes)
Equipment:
The beginning shooter does not need a lot of specialized, high priced equipment to participate. There are however, many custom gunsmiths offering tuned-up pistols for this style of shooting. It is possible for a beginner to compete with an out-of-the-box autoloader or revolver; the key factors of any gun are safety and reliability. Probably the most important piece of equipment for Action Shooting is a safe holster, which will hold the firearm securely while moving, yet allow a rapid draw. Auto pistol shooters will need spare magazines and magazine carriers which also offer security and speed; revolver shooters will find speed loaders a good investment. There are currently several companies offering fine holsters and accessories for the Action Shooter.
Ammunition:
There are some specific rules for the type of ammunition used in Action Pistol competition. The lower limit of caliber shall be 9mm; all ammunition fired in a tournament must meet or exceed the power floor as described when checked by chronograph using the formula: bullet weight x muzzle velocity = not less than 120,000.