Theres something about the thin frame and short barrel that appeals to those looking for a versatile carry gun.
The XD-S series is built for concealed carry.
Its ergonomics, controls and sights are all designed for speed.
Consider defensive shooting scenarios.
In these close-contact scenarios, you may not get your gun raised high enough to use sights.
This is where a good sight picture may become a genuine asset.
In the middle area, though, is a mix of possibilities.
You may be able to aim a clean first shot.
You may be acting more intuitively and shooting from a low-ready position.
And because I suck at shooting from the hip, Ive developed a deep respect for lasers.
Laser Focus
Viridians E-Series lasers were developed for compact and subcompact pistols.
The E-Series for the XD-S is a red laser that is daylight visible out to 25 yards.
In that middle ground, though 10 yards or less that red dot is a beacon.
It covers a spot smaller than a 9mm bullet, but is hardly subtle.
The Mechanics
Whenever you add anything to your gun, the profile changes.
The E-Series lasers are built on a clamshell design that wrap over the front of the triggerguard.
The polymer housing is thin enough to be almost unnoticeable there.
In front of the trigger, the laser adds enough bulk that you may need a dedicated holster.
This one I am using in this piece a DeSantis Mini Scabbard.
I like this OWB option for winter or anytime that you will wear a coat.
The leather provides a very traditional feel, but isnt as thin as some of the other Kydex options.
I suggest doing this at home, under the safest of conditions.
confirm the mag is out.
Make the gun safe.
Check and double-check the chamber.
You know the drill.
Then implement the laser on the gun.
This is a simple as turning a couple of small hex head screws.
Cut it on and aim at a fixed point in a safe direction.
You may notice that holding the laser completely steady is almost impossible.
This isnt the lasers fault, but it certainly highlights just how good or bad your grip is.
It wont take much force or travel to shift point-of-impact.
Shift the laser, check the implied point of impact with your sights, rinse, repeat.
If you practice at indoor ranges, the laser is going to be very easy to see.
Run your target at varying distances and see how far back you might effectively use it.
Dim the lights, if you’ve got the option to, and repeat the exercise.
At outdoor ranges, practice at close range and then step back.
Repeat all of the make-safe steps listed above, but put the empty mag back in the gun.
Pick a practical target, like a framed picture or a lamp, and work on your draw.
after you snag the mechanics down, add speed to your practice.
See how fast you’re able to get the shiny red dot on your target.
My Choice
Ive been a fan of the XD-S since its inception.
I carried a .45 XD-S for several years.
The gun was fantastically accurate for a subcompact.
The 9mm ammo is less expensive for practice sessions, and I like the grip texture of the Mod.2.
It is, and remains, one of my first recommendations for anyone serious about getting into concealed carry.
Adding a laser just makes it that much faster.
If you already own an XD-S, adding a laser is easy.
See the link below.
