Post by PRICK on Jul 1, 2011 10:41:05 GMT 8
SOURCE: www.ppsa.org.ph/competition%20rulebooks/rulebooks/Airsoft.pdf
4.2 IPSC Approved Action Air Targets – Paper
4.2.1 There is only one type of paper target approved for use in IPSC Action Air matches (see Appendix B2).
4.2.2 Paper targets must have scoring lines and non-scoring borders clearly marked on the front of the target,
however, scoring lines and non-scoring borders should not be visible beyond a distance of 10 meters.
4.2.2.1 The front of paper no-shoots must include a sufficiently distinguishable non-scoring border. In the
absence of perforations or other suitable markings, the Range Master must order that all affected
targets have a replacement non-scoring border drawn or fitted thereon.
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 (see Rule 4.1.4.1).
4.2.4.2 By physically cutting targets to remove the portion deemed to be hidden by hard cover. Such
targets must be fitted with a replacement non-scoring border, which must extend the full width of
the cut scoring area (see Rule 4.2.2).
IPSC Action Air Rules, January 2010 Edition 9
4.2.4.3 By painting or taping the portion of the target deemed to be hidden by hard cover a single and
visibly contrasting color.
4.2.4.4 Hard cover (and overlapping no-shoots) must not completely hide the highest scoring zone on a
partially hidden paper target.
4.3 IPSC Approved Action Air Targets –Rigid
4.3.1 Approved rigid (e.g. metal, plastic etc.) targets for use in IPSC Action Air matches are as follows:
4.3.1.1 IPSC Action Air Poppers, which must be calibrated as specified in Appendix C, are approved rigid
targets designed to recognize power.
4.3.1.2 IPSC Action Air Mini Poppers, which must be calibrated as specified in Appendix C, are approved
rigid targets designed to recognize power and are intended to simulate regular sized Poppers
placed at greater distances. IPSC Action Air Mini Poppers may be included together with full
sized IPSC Action Air Poppers in the same stage.
4.3.1.3 IPSC Action Air Pepper Poppers and Classic Poppers may be included in the same course of fire.
It is recommended that IPSC poppers which fall forwards be used.
4.3.1.4 For the sake of consistent time recording of the end of a competitor’s attempt at a COF, the use of
a rigid Stop Plate, complying with the specifications in Appendix C3, is recommended. Stop Plates
are subject to sensitivity calibration (see Appendix C1).
4.3.1.5 Rigid scoring targets and no-shoots must be shot and fall or overturn to respectively count for
score or penalty. Rigid scoring targets and no-shoots which accidentally turn edge-on or sideways
when hit, or which a Range Officer deems have fallen or overturned due to a shot on the apparatus
supporting them or for any other accidental reason, will be treated as range equipment failure (see
Rule 4.6.1).
4.4 Frangible and Synthetic Targets
4.4.1 Frangible targets, such as clay pigeons or tiles, are not authorized targets for IPSC Action Air matches.
4.5 Rearrangement of Range Equipment or Surface
4.5.1 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.
4.5.1.1 Objects intended to cushion the fall of discarded magazines may be strategically placed on the
range surface by competitors prior to the start of a COF, under the supervision of a Range Officer.
4.5.2 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.
4.6 Range Equipment Failure and Other Issues
4.6.1 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 rigid or moving
targets, the malfunction of mechanically or electrically operated equipment, and the failure of props such as
openings, ports, and barriers. The declaration and/or use of any loaded (see Rule 10.5.13) or unloaded
firearm as "range equipment" is prohibited.
4.6.2 A competitor who is unable to complete a course of fire due to range equipment failure, or if a rigid 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.
4.6.3 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).
5.1 Action Air Handguns
5.1.1 Action Air handguns are regulated by Divisions (see Appendix D), however, courses of fire must remain
consistent for all Divisions.
5.1.2 Approved Action Air Handguns are those which fire plastic projectiles of 6mm diameter.
5.1.3 Sights – Types of sights identified by IPSC are:
5.1.3.1 "Open sights" are aiming devices fitted to a firearm which do not use electronic circuitry and/or
lenses. Fiber-optic inserts are deemed not to be lenses.
5.1.3.2 "Optical/electronic sights" are aiming devices (including flashlights) fitted to a firearm which use
electronic circuitry and/or lenses.
5.1.3.3 The Range Master is the final authority in respect of the classification of any sights used in an
IPSC Action Air match and/or their compliance with these rules, including the Divisions in
Appendix D.
5.1.4 Unless required by a Division (see Appendices), there is no restriction on the trigger pull weight of a firearm,
however, the trigger mechanism must, at all times, function safely.
5.1.5 Triggers and/or trigger shoes that extend beyond the width of the trigger guard are expressly prohibited.
5.1.6 Firearms must be serviceable and safe. Range Officers may demand examination of a competitor’s firearm
or allied equipment, at any time, to check they are functioning safely. If any such item 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.
5.1.7 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:
5.1.7.1 The substitute handgun satisfies the requirements of the relevant Division.
5.1.7.2 In using the substitute handgun the competitor will not gain a competitive advantage.
5.1.8 A competitor who substitutes or significantly modifies a handgun during a match without the prior approval
of the Range Master will be subject to the provisions of Section 10.6.
5.1.9 A competitor must never use or wear on his person more than one firearm during a course of fire (see Rule
10.5.7).
5.1.10 Handguns with shoulder stocks and/or foregrips of any kind are prohibited (see Rule 10.5.15).
5.1.11 Handguns which "burst" fire (i.e. where more than one projectile is discharged on a single pull or activation
of the trigger) more than once during the same COF will result in the competitor receiving a zero score for
that COF.
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 in a holster securely attached to a belt on their person (see Rule 10.5.1).
5.2.2 Competitors carrying their handgun in a holster must have an empty magazine well, and the hammer or
striker must be dethingyed. Violation will incur a warning for the first occurrence but will be subject to
Section 10.6 for subsequent occurrences in the same match.
IPSC Action Air Rules, January 2010 Edition 11
5.2.3 Unless otherwise specified in the written stage briefing, the belt carrying the holster and all allied equipment
must be worn at waist level. The belt or the inner belt or both must be either permanently sewn at the waist,
or secured with a minimum of three belt loops.
5.2.3.1 Female competitors may be permitted to wear a belt, holster and allied equipment at hip level,
however, the top of the belt must not be positioned below the furthest lateral point of the top of the
femur (tuberosity major). If another belt is worn at waist level, the holster and allied equipment
must be placed on the lower belt (see Appendix D).
5.2.4 Spare projectiles, magazines and speed loading devices should be carried in retention devices specifically
designed for that purpose, to reduce the risk of loss during a course of fire.
5.2.4.1 For table starts or similar, after the Start Signal, the competitor may retrieve and carry those items
anywhere on their person, and this will not be treated as contravention of Divisional rules.
5.2.5 Where a Division specifies a maximum distance that a competitor's handgun and equipment may extend
away from a competitor's body, a Range Officer may check compliance by measuring the closest distance
between the competitor’s torso and the center of the longest dimension of the handgun grip and/or any
reloading devices.
5.2.5.1 These measurements will be done while the competitor is standing naturally upright (see Appendix
F3).
5.2.5.2 Any competitor who fails the foregoing test will be required to immediately adjust his holster or
equipment to comply with the requirements of the relevant Division. The Range Master may
make allowances for variations in these requirements due to anatomical considerations. Some
competitors may not be able to fully comply.
5.2.5.3 Unless specified in the written stage briefing, or unless required by a Range Officer, the position
of holsters and allied equipment must not be moved or changed by a competitor from stage to
stage. If a retaining strap or flap is attached to a holster, it must be applied or closed prior to
issuance of the "Standby" command (see Rule 8.3.3).
5.2.6 IPSC Action Air matches will not require the use of a particular type or brand of holster. However, the
Range Master may deem that a competitor’s holster is unsafe and order that it be improved to his satisfaction,
failing which it must be withdrawn from the match.
5.2.7 Competitors must not be permitted to commence a course of fire wearing:
5.2.7.1 A shoulder holster or "tie-down" rig (visible or otherwise),
5.2.7.2 A holster with the heel of the butt of the handgun below the top of the belt,
5.2.7.3 A holster with the muzzle of the handgun pointing further than 1 meter from the competitor's feet
while standing relaxed,
5.2.7.4 A holster which does not completely prevent access to, or activation of, the trigger of the handgun
while holstered.
5.2.8 Not applicable.
5.2.8.1 Competitors deemed by the Range Master to be permanently and significantly disabled may be
given special dispensation in relation to the type and/or placement of their holster and allied
equipment, and the Range Master will remain the final authority in respect of the safety and
suitability of using such equipment at IPSC Action Air matches.
5.3 Appropriate Dress
5.3.1 The use of camouflage or other similar types of military or police garments is discouraged. The exception is
competitors who are law enforcement or military personnel. The Match Director will be the final authority in
respect of what garments must not be worn by competitors.
IPSC Action Air Rules, January 2010 Edition 12
5.4 Eye Protection
5.4.1 All persons are warned that the correct use of adequate eye protection is in their own interest and of
paramount importance to prevent injury to vision. It is strongly recommended that eye protection be worn at
all times by all persons while on the range premises.
5.4.2 Host organizations may require the use of such protection by all persons, as a condition of attendance and
while present on the range premises. If so, Range Officials must make every reasonable effort to ensure that
all persons wear adequate protection.
5.4.3 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, the Range Official must immediately stop the competitor
who will be required to reshoot the course of fire after the protective devices have been restored.
5.4.4 A competitor who inadvertently loses eye protection during a course of fire, or commences a course of fire
without them, is entitled to stop, point their firearm in a safe direction and indicate the problem to the Range
Official, in which case the provisions of the previous rule will apply.
5.4.5 Any attempt to gain a competitive advantage by removing eye protection during a course of fire will be
considered unsportsmanlike conduct (see Rule 10.6.2).
5.4.6 If a Range Officer deems that a competitor about to make an attempt at a course of fire is wearing inadequate
eye protection, the Range Officer may order the competitor to rectify the situation before allowing the
competitor to continue. The Range Master is the final authority on this matter.
5.5 Projectiles and Related Equipment
5.5.1 Competitors at an IPSC Action Air match are solely and personally responsible for the safety of all and any
projectiles which they bring to the match. Neither IPSC nor any IPSC Officers, nor any organization
affiliated to IPSC, nor the officers of any organization affiliated to IPSC accepts any responsibility
whatsoever in this regard, nor in respect of any loss, damage, accident, injury or death suffered by any person
or entity as a result of the lawful or unlawful use of any such projectiles.
5.5.2 Magazines and speed loading devices must comply with the provisions of the relevant Division.
5.5.3 Spare magazines, speed loading devices or projectiles 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.
5.5.4 Projectiles made of any material other than plastic are prohibited at IPSC Action Air matches (see Rule
10.5.15).
5.5.5 All projectiles used by a competitor must satisfy all the requirements of the relevant Division as defined in
Appendix D.
5.5.6 Any projectiles deemed unsafe by a Range Officer must be immediately withdrawn from the match (See Rule
10.5.15).
5.6 Power Factor
5.6.1 The maximum power factor of projectiles in all Divisions is two Joules or the maximum power factor
specified by law in the Region hosting a match, whichever is lower (see Rule 10.5.15). Officials may conduct
compliance tests of projectiles used by competitors through the competitor’s handgun at any time.
5.7 Malfunctions – Competitor’s Equipment
5.7.1 In the event that a competitor's firearm malfunctions after the start signal, 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 firearm pointing safely downrange at all times. The competitor may not use rods, or
other tools to correct the malfunction. Violations will result in a zero score for the stage.
IPSC Action Air Rules, January 2010 Edition 13
5.7.1.1 A competitor who experiences a firearm malfunction while responding to the "Load And Make
Ready" or "Make Ready" command, but prior to issuance of the “Start Signal”, is entitled to retire,
under the authority and supervision of the officiating Range Officer, to repair his firearm, without
penalty, subject to the provisions of Rule 5.7.4, Rule 8.3.1.1 and all other safety rules. Once the
repairs have been completed (and the provisions of Rule 5.1.7 have been satisfied, if applicable),
the competitor may return to attempt the course of fire, subject to scheduling as determined by the
officiating Range Officer or Range Master.
5.7.2 While rectifying a malfunction that requires the competitor to clearly move the firearm away from aiming at
a target, the competitor's fingers must be clearly visible outside the trigger guard (see Rule 10.5.8).
5.7.3 In the event that a firearm malfunction cannot be corrected by the competitor within 2 minutes, he must point
the firearm safely downrange and advise the Range Officer, who will terminate the course of fire (excluding
any unattempted component strings in a Standard Exercise) in the normal manner. The course of fire
(excluding any unattempted component strings in a Standard Exercise) will be scored as shot including all
applicable misses and penalties. However, if a Stop Plate is being used, the affected competitor will receive a
zero score for the subject COF.
5.7.4 Under no circumstances is a competitor permitted to leave a course of fire in the possession of a loaded
firearm (see Rule 10.5.13).
5.7.5 Where the firearm has failed as above, the competitor must not be permitted to reshoot the course of fire or
string. This includes the instance where a firearm is declared unserviceable or unsafe during a course of fire
or string. However, any unattempted component strings in a Standard Exercise may still be attempted by the
affected competitor after the firearm has been repaired, and prior to when match results are declared final by
the Match Director.
IPSC Action Air Rules, January 2010 Edition 14
4.2 IPSC Approved Action Air Targets – Paper
4.2.1 There is only one type of paper target approved for use in IPSC Action Air matches (see Appendix B2).
4.2.2 Paper targets must have scoring lines and non-scoring borders clearly marked on the front of the target,
however, scoring lines and non-scoring borders should not be visible beyond a distance of 10 meters.
4.2.2.1 The front of paper no-shoots must include a sufficiently distinguishable non-scoring border. In the
absence of perforations or other suitable markings, the Range Master must order that all affected
targets have a replacement non-scoring border drawn or fitted thereon.
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 (see Rule 4.1.4.1).
4.2.4.2 By physically cutting targets to remove the portion deemed to be hidden by hard cover. Such
targets must be fitted with a replacement non-scoring border, which must extend the full width of
the cut scoring area (see Rule 4.2.2).
IPSC Action Air Rules, January 2010 Edition 9
4.2.4.3 By painting or taping the portion of the target deemed to be hidden by hard cover a single and
visibly contrasting color.
4.2.4.4 Hard cover (and overlapping no-shoots) must not completely hide the highest scoring zone on a
partially hidden paper target.
4.3 IPSC Approved Action Air Targets –Rigid
4.3.1 Approved rigid (e.g. metal, plastic etc.) targets for use in IPSC Action Air matches are as follows:
4.3.1.1 IPSC Action Air Poppers, which must be calibrated as specified in Appendix C, are approved rigid
targets designed to recognize power.
4.3.1.2 IPSC Action Air Mini Poppers, which must be calibrated as specified in Appendix C, are approved
rigid targets designed to recognize power and are intended to simulate regular sized Poppers
placed at greater distances. IPSC Action Air Mini Poppers may be included together with full
sized IPSC Action Air Poppers in the same stage.
4.3.1.3 IPSC Action Air Pepper Poppers and Classic Poppers may be included in the same course of fire.
It is recommended that IPSC poppers which fall forwards be used.
4.3.1.4 For the sake of consistent time recording of the end of a competitor’s attempt at a COF, the use of
a rigid Stop Plate, complying with the specifications in Appendix C3, is recommended. Stop Plates
are subject to sensitivity calibration (see Appendix C1).
4.3.1.5 Rigid scoring targets and no-shoots must be shot and fall or overturn to respectively count for
score or penalty. Rigid scoring targets and no-shoots which accidentally turn edge-on or sideways
when hit, or which a Range Officer deems have fallen or overturned due to a shot on the apparatus
supporting them or for any other accidental reason, will be treated as range equipment failure (see
Rule 4.6.1).
4.4 Frangible and Synthetic Targets
4.4.1 Frangible targets, such as clay pigeons or tiles, are not authorized targets for IPSC Action Air matches.
4.5 Rearrangement of Range Equipment or Surface
4.5.1 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.
4.5.1.1 Objects intended to cushion the fall of discarded magazines may be strategically placed on the
range surface by competitors prior to the start of a COF, under the supervision of a Range Officer.
4.5.2 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.
4.6 Range Equipment Failure and Other Issues
4.6.1 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 rigid or moving
targets, the malfunction of mechanically or electrically operated equipment, and the failure of props such as
openings, ports, and barriers. The declaration and/or use of any loaded (see Rule 10.5.13) or unloaded
firearm as "range equipment" is prohibited.
4.6.2 A competitor who is unable to complete a course of fire due to range equipment failure, or if a rigid 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.
4.6.3 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).
5.1 Action Air Handguns
5.1.1 Action Air handguns are regulated by Divisions (see Appendix D), however, courses of fire must remain
consistent for all Divisions.
5.1.2 Approved Action Air Handguns are those which fire plastic projectiles of 6mm diameter.
5.1.3 Sights – Types of sights identified by IPSC are:
5.1.3.1 "Open sights" are aiming devices fitted to a firearm which do not use electronic circuitry and/or
lenses. Fiber-optic inserts are deemed not to be lenses.
5.1.3.2 "Optical/electronic sights" are aiming devices (including flashlights) fitted to a firearm which use
electronic circuitry and/or lenses.
5.1.3.3 The Range Master is the final authority in respect of the classification of any sights used in an
IPSC Action Air match and/or their compliance with these rules, including the Divisions in
Appendix D.
5.1.4 Unless required by a Division (see Appendices), there is no restriction on the trigger pull weight of a firearm,
however, the trigger mechanism must, at all times, function safely.
5.1.5 Triggers and/or trigger shoes that extend beyond the width of the trigger guard are expressly prohibited.
5.1.6 Firearms must be serviceable and safe. Range Officers may demand examination of a competitor’s firearm
or allied equipment, at any time, to check they are functioning safely. If any such item 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.
5.1.7 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:
5.1.7.1 The substitute handgun satisfies the requirements of the relevant Division.
5.1.7.2 In using the substitute handgun the competitor will not gain a competitive advantage.
5.1.8 A competitor who substitutes or significantly modifies a handgun during a match without the prior approval
of the Range Master will be subject to the provisions of Section 10.6.
5.1.9 A competitor must never use or wear on his person more than one firearm during a course of fire (see Rule
10.5.7).
5.1.10 Handguns with shoulder stocks and/or foregrips of any kind are prohibited (see Rule 10.5.15).
5.1.11 Handguns which "burst" fire (i.e. where more than one projectile is discharged on a single pull or activation
of the trigger) more than once during the same COF will result in the competitor receiving a zero score for
that COF.
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 in a holster securely attached to a belt on their person (see Rule 10.5.1).
5.2.2 Competitors carrying their handgun in a holster must have an empty magazine well, and the hammer or
striker must be dethingyed. Violation will incur a warning for the first occurrence but will be subject to
Section 10.6 for subsequent occurrences in the same match.
IPSC Action Air Rules, January 2010 Edition 11
5.2.3 Unless otherwise specified in the written stage briefing, the belt carrying the holster and all allied equipment
must be worn at waist level. The belt or the inner belt or both must be either permanently sewn at the waist,
or secured with a minimum of three belt loops.
5.2.3.1 Female competitors may be permitted to wear a belt, holster and allied equipment at hip level,
however, the top of the belt must not be positioned below the furthest lateral point of the top of the
femur (tuberosity major). If another belt is worn at waist level, the holster and allied equipment
must be placed on the lower belt (see Appendix D).
5.2.4 Spare projectiles, magazines and speed loading devices should be carried in retention devices specifically
designed for that purpose, to reduce the risk of loss during a course of fire.
5.2.4.1 For table starts or similar, after the Start Signal, the competitor may retrieve and carry those items
anywhere on their person, and this will not be treated as contravention of Divisional rules.
5.2.5 Where a Division specifies a maximum distance that a competitor's handgun and equipment may extend
away from a competitor's body, a Range Officer may check compliance by measuring the closest distance
between the competitor’s torso and the center of the longest dimension of the handgun grip and/or any
reloading devices.
5.2.5.1 These measurements will be done while the competitor is standing naturally upright (see Appendix
F3).
5.2.5.2 Any competitor who fails the foregoing test will be required to immediately adjust his holster or
equipment to comply with the requirements of the relevant Division. The Range Master may
make allowances for variations in these requirements due to anatomical considerations. Some
competitors may not be able to fully comply.
5.2.5.3 Unless specified in the written stage briefing, or unless required by a Range Officer, the position
of holsters and allied equipment must not be moved or changed by a competitor from stage to
stage. If a retaining strap or flap is attached to a holster, it must be applied or closed prior to
issuance of the "Standby" command (see Rule 8.3.3).
5.2.6 IPSC Action Air matches will not require the use of a particular type or brand of holster. However, the
Range Master may deem that a competitor’s holster is unsafe and order that it be improved to his satisfaction,
failing which it must be withdrawn from the match.
5.2.7 Competitors must not be permitted to commence a course of fire wearing:
5.2.7.1 A shoulder holster or "tie-down" rig (visible or otherwise),
5.2.7.2 A holster with the heel of the butt of the handgun below the top of the belt,
5.2.7.3 A holster with the muzzle of the handgun pointing further than 1 meter from the competitor's feet
while standing relaxed,
5.2.7.4 A holster which does not completely prevent access to, or activation of, the trigger of the handgun
while holstered.
5.2.8 Not applicable.
5.2.8.1 Competitors deemed by the Range Master to be permanently and significantly disabled may be
given special dispensation in relation to the type and/or placement of their holster and allied
equipment, and the Range Master will remain the final authority in respect of the safety and
suitability of using such equipment at IPSC Action Air matches.
5.3 Appropriate Dress
5.3.1 The use of camouflage or other similar types of military or police garments is discouraged. The exception is
competitors who are law enforcement or military personnel. The Match Director will be the final authority in
respect of what garments must not be worn by competitors.
IPSC Action Air Rules, January 2010 Edition 12
5.4 Eye Protection
5.4.1 All persons are warned that the correct use of adequate eye protection is in their own interest and of
paramount importance to prevent injury to vision. It is strongly recommended that eye protection be worn at
all times by all persons while on the range premises.
5.4.2 Host organizations may require the use of such protection by all persons, as a condition of attendance and
while present on the range premises. If so, Range Officials must make every reasonable effort to ensure that
all persons wear adequate protection.
5.4.3 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, the Range Official must immediately stop the competitor
who will be required to reshoot the course of fire after the protective devices have been restored.
5.4.4 A competitor who inadvertently loses eye protection during a course of fire, or commences a course of fire
without them, is entitled to stop, point their firearm in a safe direction and indicate the problem to the Range
Official, in which case the provisions of the previous rule will apply.
5.4.5 Any attempt to gain a competitive advantage by removing eye protection during a course of fire will be
considered unsportsmanlike conduct (see Rule 10.6.2).
5.4.6 If a Range Officer deems that a competitor about to make an attempt at a course of fire is wearing inadequate
eye protection, the Range Officer may order the competitor to rectify the situation before allowing the
competitor to continue. The Range Master is the final authority on this matter.
5.5 Projectiles and Related Equipment
5.5.1 Competitors at an IPSC Action Air match are solely and personally responsible for the safety of all and any
projectiles which they bring to the match. Neither IPSC nor any IPSC Officers, nor any organization
affiliated to IPSC, nor the officers of any organization affiliated to IPSC accepts any responsibility
whatsoever in this regard, nor in respect of any loss, damage, accident, injury or death suffered by any person
or entity as a result of the lawful or unlawful use of any such projectiles.
5.5.2 Magazines and speed loading devices must comply with the provisions of the relevant Division.
5.5.3 Spare magazines, speed loading devices or projectiles 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.
5.5.4 Projectiles made of any material other than plastic are prohibited at IPSC Action Air matches (see Rule
10.5.15).
5.5.5 All projectiles used by a competitor must satisfy all the requirements of the relevant Division as defined in
Appendix D.
5.5.6 Any projectiles deemed unsafe by a Range Officer must be immediately withdrawn from the match (See Rule
10.5.15).
5.6 Power Factor
5.6.1 The maximum power factor of projectiles in all Divisions is two Joules or the maximum power factor
specified by law in the Region hosting a match, whichever is lower (see Rule 10.5.15). Officials may conduct
compliance tests of projectiles used by competitors through the competitor’s handgun at any time.
5.7 Malfunctions – Competitor’s Equipment
5.7.1 In the event that a competitor's firearm malfunctions after the start signal, 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 firearm pointing safely downrange at all times. The competitor may not use rods, or
other tools to correct the malfunction. Violations will result in a zero score for the stage.
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5.7.1.1 A competitor who experiences a firearm malfunction while responding to the "Load And Make
Ready" or "Make Ready" command, but prior to issuance of the “Start Signal”, is entitled to retire,
under the authority and supervision of the officiating Range Officer, to repair his firearm, without
penalty, subject to the provisions of Rule 5.7.4, Rule 8.3.1.1 and all other safety rules. Once the
repairs have been completed (and the provisions of Rule 5.1.7 have been satisfied, if applicable),
the competitor may return to attempt the course of fire, subject to scheduling as determined by the
officiating Range Officer or Range Master.
5.7.2 While rectifying a malfunction that requires the competitor to clearly move the firearm away from aiming at
a target, the competitor's fingers must be clearly visible outside the trigger guard (see Rule 10.5.8).
5.7.3 In the event that a firearm malfunction cannot be corrected by the competitor within 2 minutes, he must point
the firearm safely downrange and advise the Range Officer, who will terminate the course of fire (excluding
any unattempted component strings in a Standard Exercise) in the normal manner. The course of fire
(excluding any unattempted component strings in a Standard Exercise) will be scored as shot including all
applicable misses and penalties. However, if a Stop Plate is being used, the affected competitor will receive a
zero score for the subject COF.
5.7.4 Under no circumstances is a competitor permitted to leave a course of fire in the possession of a loaded
firearm (see Rule 10.5.13).
5.7.5 Where the firearm has failed as above, the competitor must not be permitted to reshoot the course of fire or
string. This includes the instance where a firearm is declared unserviceable or unsafe during a course of fire
or string. However, any unattempted component strings in a Standard Exercise may still be attempted by the
affected competitor after the firearm has been repaired, and prior to when match results are declared final by
the Match Director.
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