Thanks for the input gents. I think I need to clarify some points .
Have a xds 45 for carry when concealment matters more, and a 9mm xds for practice. The 9mm has considerably less recoil, and a whole lot less "lift". On the 45, actually sanded/beveled the edges of the texturing, making it more comfortable to shoot.
Very helpful. Thank you.
Is she set on the Springfield XD series, or is she willing to try other manufacturers? If so, why not have her try one of the CZ 75 series, she'll have a choice of polymer, alloy, or steel framed versions
The basic all steel 75B has the best ergos of any 9mm, the steel frame just soaks up the already minuscule recoil of the 9mm cartridge, it can be a tad heavy for concealed carry, but with the right carry setup, it's a minor issue
XDs as in the single stack 9mm and 45 acp carry guns, not as in XD's the plural of XD. She isn't interested in a full size gun right now. She wants something smallish and lightish for carry. So while I agree that CZ makes some good guns, keep in mind that ergos are strictly a matter of opinion. They suit me fine, but there are other guns I find far more ergonomic, and only she can decide what feels right for her. A CZ Rami is a possibility though. The problem is none of the local shops have one for her to try on.
Also, she is 5'4" and wears typical form fitting women's clothes. A CZ 75 will be too large for her to conceal on her body well, and is heavier than she wants to carry.
No, she is not set on SA as a manufacturer, the reason I'm asking this question is because she likes the feel of my XDs in 45, but not the recoil. She is trying on a lot of different guns to see what she likes.
Here is something to consider if you are looking at 3" barrels. The 45acp is a slow moving cartridge. It was made for a 5" barrel. Out of a 3" barrel it loses a lot of velocity. At even lower velocities, it often does not expand as designed. You lose most of the benefit of the 45 over the 9mm if it does not expand AND it has a lot more recoil. In my head, the answer is clear.
Sigh....... This is a concern with someone who is carrying the XDs 45, like myself. However, before buying mine 4 years ago, I consulted BBTI (
http://www.ballisticsbytheinch.com/45auto2.html), as well as a number of youtube tests to see how the 3.3" barrel worked with expansion. I am satisfied that MY carry gun will work properly, and the 45 will expand as intended. But I regularly carry +p ammo in MY gun to make sure it expands.
My GF
has no intention of carrying a 45. She is looking for a 9mm.
The 9mm XDS is 2 ounces heavier empty than the 45acp version. That should help some with the recoil.
True. That will help.
