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.