To keep pace, manufacturers must have a revisionist attitude.
The updated XD-S Mod.2 does not represent a major departure from the original XD-S, though.
But there have been some minor but important upgrades, and they start with the grip texturing and ergonomics.
The version I tested was the new 9mm XD-S Mod.2.
Apparently, Springfields engineers wondered the same thing, and that prompted the new texturing design.
If you opt for the flush-fit magazine the figure drops to just 4.3 inches.
With its 3.3-inch hammer-forged barrel, the pistol measures 6.3 inches long, and the width is 0.975 inch.
For comparison, the Glock 43 single-stack 9mm measures 1.06 inches wide and 6.26 inches long.
The slide stop is tucked neatly against the side of the gun.
There are two passive safeties on the XD-S Mod.2, a grip safety and a trigger safety.
Theres also a striker safety that blocks the striker channel to further protect against accidental discharges when dropped.
Grip safeties seem to be a polarizing feature.
The minimized controls on the XD-S Mod.2 wont jab or poke your belly while youre carrying the gun.
That failing, the dovetailed rear sight is designed for one-handed racking of the pistol.
Springfield claims the XD-S Mod.2 can go 25,000 rounds without stoppage.
From that range on a fixed rest, this pistol is quite accurate for a compact carry gun.
Average group size ranged from 1.3 inches up to 2.6 inches at that range.
The XD-S shines when being fired in practical fashion.
If I were buying this gun, Id stick with the tritium front sight and black rear.
Speed is further increased by the pistols short, positive reset.
The trigger broke at an average of 7.1 pounds, which isnt particularly light but is predictable.
Theres a fair amount of trigger travel before the break.
Does the perfect carry gun exist?
Not so long as there are two shooters to argue about the topic.
If youre in the market for a single-stack 9mm, the XD-S Mod.2 warrants a hard look.
I think youll be pleasantly surprised by the evolution of Springfields trim carry pistol.
