The United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) maintains a rigorously defined category for Production firearms. This division emphasizes practical handgun skills and restricts modifications, ensuring a level playing field focused on shooter ability rather than equipment advantages. Approved firearms within this category are listed on the official Production Division handgun roster. For example, a common pistol found on this roster might be a Glock 17 with iron sights and standard magazines.
Maintaining this official roster offers several key advantages. It promotes fairness by clearly delineating permitted modifications and ensuring competitors use similar equipment. This standardized approach also helps control costs, preventing an “arms race” of increasingly expensive custom-built handguns. Historically, the Production Division has seen significant growth, becoming one of the most popular divisions within USPSA competition due to its accessibility and focus on practical shooting techniques.