A huge market opens as IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation) update their rule books in January 2019.
I would think the biggest new market is in the IPSC Handgun Competition, as two new divisions (that have been lurking on test) appear.
They are IPSC Production Optics and IPSC Production Optics Light.
I guess your first question is going to be what is the difference between Production Optics and Optics Light?
“Only handguns listed as approved in the Production Division List on the IPSC website and fitted with an optical/electronic sight may be used in Production Optics or Production Optics Light Divisions. Note that handguns deemed by IPSC to be single-action-only are expressly prohibited.”
We continue through the new IPSC Handgun rule book. I have highlighted where competitors and business owners should look more closely:
“17. Original parts and components offered by the OFM as standard equipment, or as an option, for a specific model handgun on the IPSC approved handgun list are permitted, subject to the following:17.1 Modifications to them, other than minor detailing (the removal of burrs and/or adjustments unavoidably required in order to fit replacement OFM parts or components), are prohibited. Other prohibited modifications include those which facilitate faster reloading (e.g. racking or cocking handles, flared, enlarged and/or add-on magwells, etc.), and/or adding stippling. Changing the original color and/or finish of a handgun, and/or adding stripes or other embellishments is permitted.”
18. Aftermarket parts, components and accessories are prohibited, except as follows:18.1 Aftermarket magazines are permitted, subject to 17.2 above.18.2 Aftermarket open and optical/electronic sights (see Rules 5.1.3.1 and 5.1.3.2) and mounting plates are permitted, provided their installation and/or adjustment requires no alteration to the handgun other than the milling of the slide in order to facilitate the installation of an optical/electronic sight.18.3 Aftermarket grip panels which match the profile and contours of the OFM standard or optional grip panels for the approved handgun and/or the application of tape on grips (see Appendix E3a) are permitted. However, rubber sleeves are prohibited
18.4 Aftermarket springs and trigger assemblies are permitted.