As competitive shooting continues to evolve alongside the firearms industry, the International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) finds itself at a critical juncture. With more concealed carriers choosing compact optics-equipped pistols, there’s a growing gap between what people actually carry and the divisions currently offered in IDPA. To address this, it’s time for IDPA to consider a new division: CCO – Concealed Carry Optics.

The Gap Between CCP and CO
The CCP (Compact Carry Pistol) division was created to reflect the everyday carry guns many citizens rely on. In 2022, IDPA increased the round count in CCP to 10+1, aligning with the growing popularity of high-capacity micro-compacts. However, CCP remains limited to iron sights.

On the other hand, CO (Carry Optics) has exploded in popularity, welcoming striker-fired and DA/SA guns with slide-mounted red dots. But CO often favors full-size or competition-ready pistols like the CZ Shadow 2 OR, SIG X5 Legion, and Canik Rival S. These handguns are large, heavy, and optimized for speed—not concealment.

That creates a problem: shooters running guns like the SIG P365XL, Glock 43X MOS, or Springfield Hellcat Pro with optics are effectively left out. These true carry guns can’t compete with the size, weight, and performance of full-size CO pistols.
What is CCO?
Concealed Carry Optics (CCO) would follow the same basic ruleset and box dimensions as CCP:

Must fit the CCP box (7.75″ x 5.375″ x 1.375″)
10+1 round limit
Same holster and concealment garment requirements as CCP
BUT would allow slide-mounted red dot optics (no aftermarket compensators, porting, etc.)
This would create a division squarely focused on practical EDC-style pistols equipped with optics—a fast-growing trend in personal defense and law enforcement carry alike.

 
Why It Matters
Reflects Modern Carry Trends Red dots on carry guns are no longer niche—they’re mainstream. Many major brands now offer optics-ready compact pistols out of the box.

Levels the Playing Field Competing in CO with a Glock 43X MOS against a steel-framed Canik Rival S is not realistic. CCO would give optic-equipped micro-compacts a competitive home.

Encourages Participation A CCO division would bring more casual or first-time competitors into the sport by giving them a division tailored to the guns they actually carry.

Balances Match Logistics Carry Optics often dominates match attendance. Dividing it with CCO could help balance squad numbers and improve match management.

Provides a Natural Bridge Shooters in CCP who decide to add an optic won’t be forced to jump into a division dominated by larger, heavier guns. It encourages skill progression without a gear penalty.

Firearm Examples That Would Fit CCO
SIG Sauer P365XL with Romeo Zero Elite
Glock 43X MOS with Holosun 507K
Springfield Hellcat Pro with Shield RMSc
Walther PDP F-Series 3.5″
Smith & Wesson Shield Plus Optics Ready
All of these are slim, lightweight, concealment-focused pistols that currently have no dedicated home in IDPA.

 
Final Thoughts
If IDPA wants to remain relevant to modern concealed carriers and maintain a strong pipeline of new shooters, it must evolve. Adding a CCO division is a practical and progressive step that aligns with current firearm trends, competitive fairness, and the core philosophy of IDPA—real-world defensive shooting.

It’s time to recognize the rise of the optic-equipped EDC and give it a rightful place in competition.