Choose wisely
The differences are many between these two pistols. While I think that the XD is a very good gun, and a good value at its current price, I would rather have the USP. I feel that the USP is the superior pistol. IMHO, they are more reliable and more accurate. The USP line of pistols are unlike any others. They are polymer framed guns that are DA/ SA with a manual safety and a decocker (V1). Also, I don’t know about the XD, but the USP’s barrels use polygonal rifling. This allows the same accuracy as conventionally rifled barrels while allowing the same load to attain a higher velocity due to a better gas seal.
I’m not knocking the XD’s, they are good pistols at a fair price, but I feel that the HK is the better pistol. I have shot USP’s for almost ten years now and I can attest to HK’s reliability, accuracy, and durability, which is why I might be a little biased. For those who call the USP bulky… Well, they are. But so are the XD’s and Glocks. Don’t believe me? Brake out your tape measure. They are “duty” autos and were never really meant to be concealed.
I like the ability to chamber a round and then have the choice to either carry the gun “cocked and locked” or use the decocker and carry it so the first shot is DA, like a revolver, or like a SIG. In the end, you should shoot both if you can and choose the one that suits you and your needs best. I don’t think that you can go wrong with either one, but I feel that the USP is the superior weapon. Of all of my guns, when something goes bump in the night, I reach for my USP45. It has proven its self flawless in almost 10k rounds and in two classes.