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Springfield Armory XD-M Compact .40 S&W 11-Round Factory Magazine Stainless Steel Review


Springfield Armory XD(M) 40 S&W: A Compactly-Packed Performer

As a Glock enthusiast, I was initially skeptical about trying a new handgun from a different manufacturer. But the Springfield Armory XD(M) 40 S&W caught my attention with its sleek design, impressive specs, and competitive price point. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could live up to the hype. Here’s my in-depth review of the XD(M) 40 S&W, highlighting its key features, pros, and cons.

Key Features:

  • 11-Round Capacity: The XD(M) 40 S&W comes with a 11-round factory magazine, allowing for a decent amount of firepower without sacrificing concealability.
  • Stainless Steel Construction: The frame and slide are built from durable stainless steel, resistant to corrosion and wear.
  • Striker-Fired System: The XD(M) uses a striker-fired system, which means its safety is nearly foolproof and reliable.
  • Adjustable Trigger: The trigger is fully adjustable, allowing for a customized feel and reduced trigger pull.
  • Aggressive Textured Grip: The grip is designed for improved traction and control, even for those with smaller hands.
  • Recoil-Assisted Muzzle: The XD(M) features a recoil-assisted muzzle design, mitigating the effects of recoil and making it more manageable for beginners.
  • Picatinny Rail: The 5.5-inch barrel sports a Picatinny rail, perfect for attaching various optics and accessories.

In the Field:

I spent several weeks with the XD(M) 40 S&W, taking it to the range and put it through its paces. Here are some key takeaways:

  • Accuracy: The XD(M) 40 S&W showed impressive accuracy, with groups as tight as 1-2 inches at 25 yards using Federal Premium 135-grain JHPs.
  • Trigger: The adjustable trigger proved to be a game-changer. After a quick adjustment, the pull became smooth, crisp, and relatively light.
  • Ergonomics: The aggressive textured grip made it easy to hold onto, even when the gun was hot and sweaty from extended shooting sessions.
  • Concealability: The XD(M) 40 S&W is surprisingly compact, making it easy to hide in a pocket or under clothing.

Pros:

Reliability: The XD(M) 40 S&W has been 100% reliable, with no malfunctions or issues during testing.
Accuracy: The gun is capable of impressive group sizes, making it suitable for both self-defense and target shooting.
Adjustability: The trigger and sights are easy to adjust, allowing for a personalized fit to your shooting style.
Concealability: The compact size and light weight make it easy to carry, even in small bags or purses.
Affordability: The XD(M) 40 S&W is priced competitively, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.

Cons:

Slightly stiff trigger: The factory trigger setting can be a bit stiff out of the box, requiring some adjustments to get it to feel right.
Some users may find it too big: For those with smaller hands, the XD(M) 40 S&W may be a bit larger than ideal, requires some getting used to.
No built-in safety: The striker-fired system means there is no built-in safety, which can be a concern for some users.

Conclusion:

The Springfield Armory XD(M) 40 S&W is a solid, compact handgun that punches above its weight. With its reliability, accuracy, and adjustability, it’s a great option for both novice and experienced shooters. While there are some potential drawbacks, the pros far outweigh the cons. If you’re in the market for a compact, reliable, and affordable sidearm, the XD(M) 40 S&W is definitely worth considering.


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