Words of Wisdom

[Zap]

The Springfield XD's and XDM's seem to have a reputation for reliability. I've never fired one, but going by what I've read, they're worthy of looking in to. I figure any one of the "big three" semi-auto calibers (.40 S&W, .45 acp, 9mm) will do the job when properly equipped with a premium hollow point ammo (gold dots, Ranger Sxt, etc.). I really don't know what I would carry if I felt a real need -- probably go with the old and reliable .45

[Zap]

And, I'm not a fan of manual safeties on a handgun. Though nothing feels better to me than a 1911, I'd opt for a Double action only (DAO) or a DA\SA with a decocker -- but that's a personal preference. If push came to shove, I guess I'd cary a Sig P220 Carry.

[Charlief1]

My personal favorite is the Astra A-75. Mines in 45 but you can find them in 40 cal. They are hard to find and don't have a safety so to speak. It has a de-coking lever which puts it at half cock and ready to go. DA design so you can fire with hamer in safety or fully cocked.

[Steve Wood]

Have not shot the xd or xdm, but they feel good in the hand...sure get good reports from buyers. 

[Zap]

I'm sure there is a bad review somewhere, but I have yet to find one on the XD or XDM, and on the internet that's really saying something.

[gbsean]

one thing that was nice with the Springfield XD was the mag/grip extension..I liked the short grip as my pinky finger seemed to add support on the underside of the grip.. with the extension it felt awkward as pinky had to wrap around

[Steve Wood]

yes, these small guns really benefit from such an extension.  Gives the hand some leverage in keeping the gun on target