I’ve shot IDPA for a few years with either my carry pistol, G-19 or a 1911 depending on the ammo supply. Our club shoots 5 or 6 stages of pistol and then resets things for two stages of a fun carbine match. We had our first local night match this year and plan on two night matches next year; one pistol and one rifle.
We tend to shoot lots of movers and obscured targets. The bay depth limits the yardage to 30 yards. They use some mini-IPSC targets some times for the rifle stage to get the appearance of distance.
I never got into the run and gun part of IPSC but anything that adds stress, movement and gun handling can be good as long as you are not reinforcing bad habits.
I did just buy a M&P Pro to try and give the Glock a rest. So far the there is no real difference in the scores.
The two local clubs are very new shooter oriented and I’ve made some friends there.
Enjoy the game.
PS I suck at it so don't ask for any help from me.