i've shot ipsc handgun and three gun competitions for several years now. the competition is really with yourself. if you shoot this way i guarantee you will feel dramatcally more comfortable with your weapons, shooting and carrying. it's a great way to practice all elements of fire, grip, sight picture, controlled fire, movement, reloads, the list goes on. yes, you run through some ammo but how else do you get good at anything, practice. i reload, it saves me money,