I shoot USPSA Production Division once a month. I shoot IDPA (SSP) twice a month. I use a Glock 19. It is stock except for the Heinie sights. During the summer, I use the same pistol in Man-on-Match falling steel plate matches that run locally in Northern Nevada. The benefits of competition have already been stated above. Nonetheless, let me add that anyone who disrespects competition is a person who is afraid to learn, to put it midly. Open your mind to the benefits of competition and get out there and shoot. A person can currently get into Production Division or SSP with an expense of about $800. After that expense, it is only ammo, gas, match fees, and what to have for lunch.