So have shot a few Steel Challenge and similar matches the last couple of years, have not shot USPSA or IDPA but am interested in trying both, but not at a top level, just more of a Recreational thing. That being said, I picked up a Glock 34 and am thinking about putting a red dot on it. But I am not interested in getting thrown into the top tier category with all the race guns and really serious gunners. Would adding an optic without doing anything else bump me into the higher categories. I know with Steel Challenge they have the optics division that is not quite as up there with the unlimited division, but am having trouble with the other two figuring it out. Bender and others who do this more competively can you help a guy out. Much thanks......

USPSA this might be you

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What is popular is the new hotness: Carry Optics. This division was added recently to take into account the number of people who are mounting optics like the Trijicon RMR on the slides of their pistols. Carry Optics is in many ways "Open Lite" shooters can extensively modify their pistols, and use extended magazines that hold around 20 rounds. The "race gun" type holsters seen in Open are specifically not allowed. It only scores minor power factor, making 9mm guns the order of the day.

Most major manufacturers offer mounting solutions for pistol optics now, so you can just buy a Glock/Sig/Beretta/Walther, toss a RMR or Deltapoint on it and be ready to go! Just no compensators or magwells, and make sure that red dot is mounted to the slide, not the frame.

Thank you sir, that is basically what I am looking at except a Glock instead of an Smith and Wesson. Glad to see there is an option for a basic gun with only an optic added.

hope you get to shoot that classification. i have not shot in MANY years. I really enjoyed it. if for no other reason than hear the young folks ask why i was shooting a 1911

Yes, you'll be in Carry Optics when you put just a red dot on the pistol. It has taken USPSA by storm since they took away the dumb mag limit rule - you can now run any 140mm mag that fits the gauge. I always recommend the Taran Tactical +5 extensions, that's what I run on my P320 X5 Legion - LINK. You can also do a list of other modifications like a new trigger (Timney or Johnny Glocks is what I would suggest) and other internals, a gas pedal, frame stippling, etc. The only thing you can't do is run a magwell or ported barrel.

At least in the Dallas area where I shoot, I'd say 60-70% of every match is CO shooters now.