6.1 General Principles (Match Structure)
The following definitions are used to clarify the match structure of an IPSC match.
6.1.1 Course Of Fire (also "course" and "COF")
A separately timed and scored IPSC shooting challenge, conceptualized and constructed in accordance with IPSC principles of course design, containing targets and challenges which each competitor must safely negotiate.
6.1.2 Stage
A portion of an IPSC match containing one course of fire and related supporting facilities, amenities, shelter and signage. A stage must use one type of firearm (e.g. handgun, rifle or shotgun) exclusively.
6.1.3 Match
Consists of a minimum of 3 stages where all stages use the same type of firearm. The total sum of individual stage results will be accumulated to declare a match winner.
6.1.4 Tournament
A special match where individual stages are assigned to one particular type of firearm (e.g. Stages 1-4 Handgun, Stages 5-8 Rifle, Stages 9-12 Shotgun). The total sum of individual stage results will be accumulated to declare a tournament winner.
6.1.5 Grand Tournament
Consists of two or more firearm specific matches (e.g. a handgun match and a shotgun match, or a handgun match, a rifle match and a shotgun match). The individual match results achieved by a competitor in each component match will be used to declare an overall tournament winner, in accordance with the IPSC Grand Tournament Rules.
6.1.6 League
Consists of two or more IPSC matches of a single firearm type held at different locations and on different dates. The total sum of match results attained by each competitor at component matches specified by the league organizers will be accumulated to determine a league winner.
6.1.7 Out Of Region Sanctioning
A Region affiliated to IPSC cannot actively or passively sanction a shooting match of any type or format within the geographical boundaries of another Region without the advance and written approval of the Regional Director of the Region where the match is to be held. A Region in violation is subject to Section 5.9 of the IPSC Constitution.
Chapter Rules
