There is a reason the XD is still around today.
Actually, reasons, as in plural.
When I think of an XD, I think grip angle and crisp trigger.
The Sub-Compact XD (left) compared to the Service XD illustrates two options available in the proven XD line.
Its a trigger that works for action shooting and defensive uses.
The cocking indicator sticks out the rear slide plate when the striker is cocked.
Its like a dummy light on a dashboard that says: Ready To Shoot!
The XD offers a more vertical, 1911-style grip angle than some other polymer-framed pistols, which is far more comfortable for many shooters.
The slide release is a good size and protected by a shelf.
Front slide serrations were novel back when the XD debuted, and they ease making a press check.
Steel sights are a plus.
All XD pistols disassemble with ease and without tools, making them incredibly easy guns to maintain.
The dual recoil spring helps to mitigate recoil and provide the shooter with more control.
The dual captive recoil spring uses a full-length guide rod, so the pistols smoothly cycle.
Another plus to owning an XD is aftermarket parts.
TheSpringfield XD 9mm Sub-Compactoffers a substantial amount of firepower in a compact and ultra-reliable package.
There are numerous manufacturers that will slick up the XD trigger to be match-ready at 3.5 to 4.5 lbs.
Aftermarket barrels, extended magazine releases, compensators, mag extensions and more are available.
I also still have a .40 Sub-Compact.
The XD Service model (top) pairs nicely with the XD Sub-Compact for a duty pistol and back-up gun combination.
Remember the .40 cartridge?
The subcompacts are the 3 barrel models.
I can shoot a micro nine fine, but I can shoot a XD Sub-Compact better.
The primary advantage of theXD 45 Tacticalis its longer barrel and slide. An increased sight radius can help with more accurate shooting.
The flush-fit 13+1 round magazine when chambered in 9mm offers plenty of payload for an EDC gun.
In .40, capacity is 10+1 rounds.
That ups the magazine capacity ante for the little pistol.
Service Size
Service-size XD pistols feature a full-length grip and 4 barrel.
The standard magazine capacity is 16 rounds in 9mm.
The .45 Auto model is also a great EDC option if you prefer big-bore striker-fire pistols.
Personally, I shoot the Service models like theSpringfield XD 9mm best.
Grip size and angle are optimal for me.
Tactical Size
Tactical XD pistols have a 5 barrel with a full-size frame.
As the Tactical XD slides are longer than the other models, they have a longer sight radius.
The Tactical could also be considered a great truck or home defense pistol.
The slide mass helps to mitigate recoil making them very easy shooters.
The Tactical XD is available in 9mm, .40 or .45 Auto.
Choose Your XD
The original XD series is popular for good reasons.
Ive found with XD pistols I dont pay a lot, yet still get great performance.
With three sizes: Sub-Compact, Service and Tactical theres a place for an XD in your life.
If theres a potential problem with the XD series, its in determining which one is best for you.
Frankly, thats a good problem to have.
Go to forum thread
