Such is the case with myXD-M pistols.
Yes, the newer XD-M Elite models offer distinct advantages in comparison.
I cant deny Id buy the Elite version if I was comparing the two for the first time today.
With these new magwell kits from Springfield Armory, you can quickly add a flared magwell to your legacy XD-M pistol.
But, thats not the reality of my situation.
And that also doesnt mean Im not interested in upgrading them with the right components.
All parts are black.
Kits come with all of the parts you need, including three backstraps, pins and magazine. A few hand tools and a hand towel is all you need to perform the installation at home.
Although many in my family are mechanically inclined, that genetic boon appears to have skipped me.
Even so, Springfield promised I would be able to accomplish the magwell conversions on my pistols.
I dove into the work, starting with the larger of the two guns.
Springfield Armory offers the new magwell kits for 9mm Compact XD-M pistols in addition to thefull-sized model.
I was able to implement the first magwell kit in about 15 minutes.
Once I knew what I was doing, I installed the second kit in less than five.
In this example, I used the standard kit on my XD-M FDE.
The author installed the magwell kit on his FDE XD-M in about 15 minutes. Once he knew the procedure, the installation on a second XD-M took less than five minutes.
If you are up to the task, these are the basic steps.
Remove all ammo from the work area.
Drift Out Pin and Remove Backstrap:With a 3/32 punch, drift out the backstrap roll pin.
After installing the magwell, the author ran the included 22-round magazine in his full-size XD-M without a single problem.
If youve never removed this pin before, a few light taps with a hammer may be needed.
Once the pin is free, you could lift out the backstrap.
You will use the locking pin included with the magwell kit.
After ensuring the gun is unloaded, the roll pin holding the backstrap in place will need to be removed.
Once inserted, the locking pin should hold the magwell and backstrap together as a single piece.
Insert the roll pin you previously removed into the backstrap.
You will likely need to use a hammer with a 3/32 punch to move the pin back into place.
The new backstrap and magwell are shown connected prior to fitting onto the XD-M. The locking pin is shown partially out to indicate where it inserts.
If there is a problem you cannot solve, contact a local gunsmith for additional assistance.
I encountered no problems during two installations.
Even more importantly, both pistols ran right as rain after the work was complete.
All of the magwell kits assemble in the same manner regardless of the size XD-M you own.
It gives you a wide mouth and funnel to help speed reloads under stress.
Likewise, the included extended magazine gives you more rounds between reloads.
For my 3.8 Compact XD-M, the magwell upgrade makes even more sense.
As it is a genuine Springfield Armory kit, the magwell and backstraps are a perfect fit on the XD-M pistol.
With the flush-fitting, 13-round magazine, my pinky hangs off the bottom of the pistol.
However, my 19-round extended magazines with the X-Tension sleeve are simply too long for my concealment needs.
The upgrade adds just enough length to the grip for an improved hold on the pistol.
Once installed, the magwell kit adds enhanced functionality to the XD-M pistol for competition and home defense.
Plus, the 14-round magazine offers additional firepower without being ridiculously long for a CCW pistol.
No matter the gun, I found these Springfield XD-M magwell kits are real winners.
