Chapter 6 · Match Structure · p.34
6.2Match Divisions
USPSA Divisions recognize different firearms and equipment. (See Appendices D1 to D5.) Each match must recognize at least one Division. When multiple Divisions are available in a match each Division must be scored separately and independently and match results must recognize a winner in each Division.
In USPSA sanctioned matches, the minimum number of competitors stipulated in Appendix A2 must compete in each Division for it to be recognized. If there are insufficient competitors in a Division, the Match Director may allow that Division to stand without official USPSA recognition.
Prior to the commencement of a match each competitor must declare one Division for score. Match Officials should check firearms and other competitor equipment for compliance with the declared Division prior to the competitor making an attempt at any of the courses of fire.
Subject to the prior approval of the Match Director, a competitor may enter a match in more than one Division. However, the competitor may compete for match score in only one Division and that must be the first attempt in all cases. Any subsequent attempts in another Division will not count for match recognition.
Level I matches may allow competitors to enter multiple Divisions for match recognition.
Where a Division is unavailable or deleted, or where a competitor fails to declare a specific Division prior to the commencement of a match, the competitor will be placed in the Division which, in the opinion of the Range Master, most closely identifies with the competitor’s equipment. If, in the opinion of the Range Master, no suitable Division is available the competitor will shoot the match for no score.
If a competitor fails to satisfy the equipment or other requirements of a declared Division during a the competitor will be placed in Open Division, if available. If a competitor fails to satisfy the equipment or other requirements for Open Division during the course of fire, he will shoot for no score.
6.2.5.1.1 In the event that the optic falls off the firearm in any division that requires an optic, it shall be treated as competitor equipment malfunction and will not warrant a move to Open division. The optic must be mounted to the firearm at the start of the course of fire and may not be deliberately removed by the competitor during the course of fire. All safety rules apply.
A competitor who is classified or reclassified as above must be notified as soon as possible. The Range Master’s decision on these matters is final.
A match disqualification incurred by a competitor at any time during a match will prevent the competitor from further participation in the match including any subsequent attempts in another Division. However, this is not retroactive. Any previous and complete match scores from another Division will be included for recognition and awards in that Division.
Recognition of a competitor in a specific Division will not preclude further recognition in a Category.