BERRYVILLE, Ark. - Celebrating its 16th year of defensive pistol shooting excellence, the International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA) and legendary American firearms maker Smith & Wesson today announced the dates of the 2013 Smith & Wesson IDPA Indoor National Championship.

Regarded as one of the finest competitive shooting matches in the country, regardless of discipline, the Smith & Wesson IDPA Indoor National Championship represents the start of the 2013 IDPA season. The 2013 match will take place February 21-23 and is expected to draw over 300 of the best IDPA shooters to Springfield, Massachusetts to compete on the indoor ranges of the Smith & Wesson Shooting Sports Center.

"From the very beginning Smith & Wesson has been one of IDPA's most generous sponsors and dedicated partners. And over the last 15 years the Indoor National Championship hosted by Smith & Wesson has grown to become not only our sport's most popular match but also the flagship event that symbolizes the kickoff of the competitive season," said Joyce Wilson, executive director for IDPA.

"We are proud and excited to once again play host to the Smith & Wesson IDPA Indoor National Championship, now in its 16th consecutive year," said Paul Pluff of Smith & Wesson. "Every winter we look forward to this match and plan year-round to insure that this is not only the premier shooting sports event in the nation, but also a unique and challenging match that will attract shooters from all around the world."

Fore more information on IDPA, or to get started in this fun and exciting defensive pistol shooting sport, visit www.IDPA.com. You can also follow @OfficialIDPA on Twitter, like ShootIDPA on Facebook, watch IDPA TV, or check out the Down Zero Blog to keep up with the latest news.

About Smith & Wesson:
Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC) is a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing and design, delivering a broad portfolio of quality firearms, related products and training to the global military, law enforcement, and consumer markets. The company's brands include Smith & Wesson, M&P and Thompson/Center Arms. Smith & Wesson facilities are located in Massachusetts and Maine. For more information on Smith & Wesson, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com.

About International Defensive Pistol Association:
Founded in 1996, the International Defensive Pistol Association is the international governing body for IDPA competition which offers shooters a fun, safe, and challenging format to practice and test their gun handling skills through defensive-based scenarios. Today IDPA stands as the fastest growing shooting sport in the United States with over 20,000 members from all 50 states and 54 foreign countries. IDPA's 321 affiliated clubs offer weekly and monthly matches as well as host major championships.